Insights from an admissions expert

Applying for a graduate degree might feel overwhelming and confusing because future students will have to navigate the intricate process of applying to different schools, sell their brand successfully, and choose among promising schools that will shape their professional careers.

Through an interview with Monica Jacobs, Sr. College and Regional Recruiting and Enrollment Specialist at Fisher, we gathered some insights on the application process that all future buckeyes want to read to make the best out of their applications.

Why do you recommend doing an MBA program?

Great question! The MBA is a broad business degree, and so if you are looking to advance in your career, especially in a management role where you will be a decision-maker and a leader overseeing things, it can be helpful to look at a problem from all the different sides that impact your business. It can also help pivot into a new industry in which you do not have experience or if you do not have a business background and want to do something in business. For instance, we get a lot of people from healthcare for whom an MBA is beneficial because they can understand how their hospital works as a business. Our MBA program is ideal for people who want to transition to business, want to see how businesses work in their industry at a higher level as decision-makers or to open up new opportunities.

Why should people pick Fisher's MBA program?

The MBA program at Fisher has a small class size and cohort that differentiates us because it makes it a community-focused and collaborative program while keeping the competitive side of an MBA degree in its classes and case competitions. That makes for a really impactful experience because you get to know your classmates and faculty and get all the resources that a major research institution like OSU offers but in a small program, so you are not lost in the masses of a huge MBA class. Also, it offers experiential learning opportunities by connecting students with local and international companies headquartered in Columbus. Columbus is a business-friendly and vibrant city to have a business in, and also a young and inviting one to study a 2-year program or stay beyond after the MBA.

What companies tend to make job offers to Fisher MBAs?

We see many of our MBA students going into consulting, financial services, and tech. The main companies that recruit from our MBA program are Amazon, JPMorgan Chase, McKinsey, Deloitte, Microsoft, and Nationwide, which is Columbus-based.

What is the average salary for Fisher's MBAs?

Our average starting salary is $129,000, and our average signing bonus is over $34,000. So, our students currently make over $163,000 during their first post-MBA year.

What makes a student show their interest in Fisher?

Having researched the program and knowing specifically what interests them about it. That could be the electives we offer to tailor your path, career outcomes that attract you, the massive alumni network you can tap into, or your interest in Columbus for your MBA. It can be anything that attracts you to the program and, since there are many programs with similarities and differences, it is important to articulate why you want to apply, what will make you come here if we give you an offer, and that you know what program you are getting into. So, then we will be able to set you up for success because you know what we have to offer and will be able to recognize you are a good fit for our program.

What makes an applicant a good candidate?

We employ a holistic review process that considers everything an applicant brings to the table. Some things that will help you stand out include:

• A strong essay: Make sure your essay is well-thought-out, addresses the prompt directly, and is free of errors. Our essay prompts focus on your short-term and long-term career goals, so not addressing these points can make it difficult for us to assess your fit. Tailor your essay to your specific goals and aspirations.
• Strong academic performance: Our program is rigorous and quantitative, so we want to ensure your success. You can demonstrate your academic ability through your undergraduate GPA, relevant coursework, previous professional experience, and standardized test scores like the GMAT or GRE.
• A clear and concise resume.

How is living in Columbus?

Columbus offers the benefits of a big city with a small-town feel. It does not have the hustle and bustle of some major metropolises, but there is still plenty to do, from restaurants and sports to arts and outdoor activities. No matter your interests, you are likely to find something you enjoy in Columbus. There are also frequent events and festivals, making it easy to stay engaged with the community. Despite its offerings, Columbus remains a charming and friendly city with a youthful vibe. You will have plenty of opportunities to connect with recent graduates, grad students, young professionals, and families, making it easy to find your place in the community.

Does Fisher offer funding/scholarship opportunities?

Yes! We offer merit-based scholarships and graduate assistantships (GAs) that could partially or totally cover your tuition fees and provide a stipend. You can even receive a combination of scholarships and assistantships. We consider your application automatically, so there is no additional paperwork required. The vast majority of our students receive some form of financial aid from Fisher.

Does Fisher offer GMAT or GRE waivers?

Yes. Our full-time MBA program accepts both tests without preference, but you can apply for a waiver during the application process. The basic requirements for a waiver are a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale or a “B” average on not 4.0 scale and demonstrably strong quantitative skills. You can show these skills through relevant coursework, military experience, or performance on the MCAT. We review your waiver application along with your other materials and notify you of the decision. If your waiver is not approved, it does not mean we will not review your application. It means you will have to submit a standardized test score. If approved, consider that the other parts of your application will carry a higher weight. While having a test score can be helpful, a waiver does not negatively impact your candidacy and still makes you eligible for funding.

Do you have some final advice or recommendations for applicants?

• Do your research: Learn as much as you can about our program and what we offer.
• Connect with us: Reach out to our admissions ambassadors or experts. They can answer your questions and help you determine if our program is a good fit for you. Talking to current students can be especially helpful, as they can give you firsthand insights into the program experience.

Do not hesitate to connect with one of our MBA Ambassadors if you need more information regarding the application process and student life at Fisher. We wish you a successful application process and hope to see you at Fisher soon!