Got the Job Done

Experience during the program

As a somewhat older applicant (30 y/o during admissions), I spared no expense or time in exploring all of my options--applying to 20 full-time programs around the world and the U.S. While not among my initial consideration set, I responded to an offer from Notre Dame to waive my admission fee, which I believe was triggered off of GMAT score.

I interviewed with all 20 of the programs I applied to, and Notre Dame did by far the best job of being engaging and welcoming while asking tough questions about my plans for the future. At the time, I came away impressed but doubted I would attend, as I had received admission offers from top-10 ranked programs. Then a few days later I received an admissions offer from Notre Dame with a VERY substantial financial assistance offer, so substantial that it essentially made my decision for me. I was headed to South Bend!

Overall, I found the program to be quite culturally conservative, and I didn't like living in a small town in the midwest, but I'm sure others would like that environement. From an academic and career perspective, all the opportunities are there for the taking unless you're looking for something VERY specific at the high-end of the occupational spectrum. Only 10% of students received offers with the Google/Goldman/BCG diamond studded companies, but offers of $100k+ jobs were available for 80% with stodgy F500 firms.

Overall, I got what I wanted done without too much pain. It's key to remember that much like work, an MBA is only one component of your life, and your satisfaction with the period can be influenced as much by the other elements than which school you chose.

About professors, classes and curriculum

Curriculum is a little "old-fashioned" in that it's standard classroom-based, but I don't think that distracted from the overall knowledge transfer.

About job placement process

Strong Midwest network, particularly Chicago.

Overall BSchool experience (3.0)
Schools contribution (4.0)
Classmates rating (3.0)

Strengths of the program:

Brand/Ranking
Culture & Student Support
Specialization in a particular area (e.g. Finance, Consulting, Healthcare, etc)
Strong Corporate Finance

Best fit at this program:

Consulting
Finance
Management
Non-profit

Can be improved:

Student body, diversity
Location