How to Conduct an Informational Interview
A critical step in your MBA application journey is conducting informational interviews with current students and alums from your target programs. This is one of the most powerful tools to employ while conducting school research. You can gain insights into the program’s academic offerings that go beyond just course descriptions on the website. It is an opportunity to learn more about the student body and the culture on campus from a lived perspective. You can gain an in-depth understanding of the career resources available on campus. These will help you not only determine a mutual fit with the program but can also be useful to demonstrate interest in the school while writing your essays.
How to connect with students and alums
Many schools have a student ambassador program and will provide contact information for current students who are willing to speak to prospective candidates. Start there.
Tap into your personal networks to find people at your target programs. Find an alum from your own undergraduate institute. Speak to an ex-colleague. Call family friends / cousins/ neighbors.
Use LinkedIn. Search for people who are currently in or have graduated from the program. Just remember to add a little note on why you are contacting them if adding on LinkedIn.
Pro tip: Try to find someone who has similar career interests, or is a member of a club you hope to join, or maybe even is from similar geography as you. You will be able to have a more strategic discussion and they could end up being a longer-term resource if you do end up at the program!
What questions should you ask?
Here is a sample list of questions that you can ask during an informational interview:
Why did you pick this school over other schools you may have been considering?
What are some of the greatest strengths and weaknesses of the program?
What have been some of your favorite classes and clubs?
What are some of the fun traditions / activities you engage in?
What does a typical day look like for you?
Have you developed relationships with alumni and faculty during your time here? How did you do that?
How specifically did you get support from the career management office?
If you could give me one piece of advice as an applicant (or future MBA student) what would it be?
If you are going with a partner, ask if they are aware of the support system available for them and if they get involved in the social activities.
Do not ask questions for which answers are available on the school website or personal information, such as their GMAT scores or GPA. You want to make the most of your time with them, so focus on questions that help you get a deeper insight into the school.