Should I visit the campus before applying to an MBA program?
Visiting MBA campuses before you apply to an MBA program gives you a real sense of the flexibility and purpose of each school, which can be helpful in narrowing your choices and making application decisions. Loyola offers both full-time and part-time MBA programs at three Sellinger campus locations. If you are interested in pursuing an MBA, you are encouraged to schedule a visit.
There are many benefits to business school campus visits. Specifically, they let prospective schools know you’re seriously interested in their program. MBA visits also offer an opportunity to see past pretty pictures and successful alumni and experience the school’s community. Business school campus visits play a key role in helping you determine if a program is a good fit for you. While it is important that you visit prospective schools, the timing of your visit – before or after the application process – is up to you.
Be sure to schedule your visits to MBA campuses when school is in session. “While on campus, make sure you check out the whole university because its entire resources may someday be available to you,” advises Stacy Blackman in U.S News. Participate in class test drives and information sessions, but also make a point to interact with current students and faculty. “Talking to current students is the best way to learn about the program,” says Blackman.
The MBA-focused website Poets & Quants also offers a great list of questions to ask during your MBA visits such as, “What other schools did you consider? Why did you choose this school?” and “Have you developed relationships with alumni during your time here?” Much of your MBA experience involves socializing and networking with classmates. Find out where other prospective students work, or what they do to relax and where the local hang-outs are. “If you can stay for a few days,” says Blackman, “try to immerse yourself in the social scene and connect with students who are interested in the same activities you hope to become involved in.”
Getting an MBA is a lifetime investment that starts with getting to know the schools you’re interested in and figuring out if a particular program is a good match.
Are you considering business school? The Sellinger School of Business at Loyola University of Maryland offers comprehensive MBA programs to help you develop the expertise you need to get to the next level of your career. For more information, visit our MBA FAQ page.