This document discusses how MBA programs select candidates based on fit with the school's core values. It advises applicants to identify a target school's values and provide examples from their background demonstrating alignment. Specifically, applicants should discuss experiences illustrating commitment to the school's values like innovation, questioning the status quo, confidence without attitude, going beyond oneself, and being selfless. A successful application will show how the applicant embodies the program's defining principles.

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SkimaTalk Official Course
Preparing for the MBA Application Process
Lesson 3: Know Your School’s Values

2. Each MBA Program Has Unique Core Values
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Question the status quo
Students always
Confidence without attitude
Beyond yourself
Example: UC Berkeley’s “Defining Principles”

3. MBA Programs Select Candidates that Align with
their Core Values
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“Will this person fit in?”
“Can this person become a
good leader”
“Is this person committed to our
core values?”

4. A Successful Application Will Demonstrate Your
“Fit” with the School’s Values
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Value: Committed
to Innovation
“In my previous job, I designed and
developed a new order management
system to help the customer better track
inventory. This innovative process saves
the customer millions of dollars every
year.”
Value: Selfless
“In my spare time I help tutor students in
a low-income neighborhood. After
school, I want to start an education
company that focuses on helping
students in low-income areas.”

5. Lesson Structure
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Before the lesson you will prepare a list of the core values for one of
your target MBA programs.
During the lesson you will discuss the values with your teacher:
(10 minutes) – Review each of the core values.
(15 minutes) – For each value, spend 3 – 5 minutes discussing how your
background, education, and interests are a fit with the value. Use
specific examples where possible.

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