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Columbia MBA Admissions Interview Questions: Regular Decision / Alumnus / Off-campus

I met my interviewer at a local coffee shop. He was an alum who graduated in the 80s. Prior to meeting he requested I send him my resume and an objectives statement on my short and long term goals. I was asked the following questions:
a. Tell me about a time you experienced adversity and how you dealt with it?
b. Why Columbia over other schools?
c. What’s your backup plan if you’re not accepted this year?
d. Why consulting? What do you hope to learn? What do you mean specifically by that?
e. Have you visited? How many teachers have you spoken to? How many professors?
f. What classes would you take to further your goals?
g. What will you bring to Columbia outside the classroom?
h. Do you have any questions for me?
The interview went very well (2 hours total). I would warn to be vigilant of what you say after the questions have stopped if you are in a casual setting like this. I was surprised at my interviewers candor in letting me know he would be recommending me at the end of the conversation. I was impressed that he still interviews candidates given the length of time since his MBA. I think this speaks to alum’s dedication to the school!

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