In this edition of our Admissions Director Q&A series, we welcome Paul North, the Executive Director of the Graduate Programs Office at The Ohio State University Max M. Fisher College of Business.
With over 20 years of experience in higher education, Paul has served in leadership roles at both public and private universities, bringing deep expertise across a range of graduate business programs—including MBA, MS, executive, and dual degree formats. In his current role, Paul leads strategic direction for the Graduate Programs Office, overseeing recruitment and marketing, admissions and financial aid, academic and student services, and events and programming.
Prior to joining Fisher, Paul was the Director of Admissions and Marketing for the Full-Time MBA program at the Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University. Throughout his career, Paul has worked across the student lifecycle—from recruitment and marketing to student services and career development. He has taught courses on job search strategies and global business, and remains actively engaged in the graduate management education community. He has served on numerous committees and expert panels focused on advancing graduate business education.
Paul holds an MBA from Gonzaga University. He also earned a Master of Arts in Public and Personnel Management from Osmania University and a Bachelor of Commerce from Wesley College, both in India.
Check out our Q&A below for Paul’s insights into the application process, how to prepare for your interviews, and more on the Fisher MBA program.
Clear Admit: What is the one aspect of your program that you wish applicants knew more about?
Paul North: There are so many fantastic program features within Ohio State’s top 25-ranked Full-Time MBA program (#8 among public universities), such as experiential learning opportunities unique to our school. However, it’s also important to consider the “where I go” and “career focus” aspects when choosing an MBA program. Where you live while earning your MBA matters immensely. You want to study in a booming city and at a university that is connected not only locally, but also nationally and globally.
At The Ohio State University, we are one of the largest universities in the United States, deeply connected to Columbus and to employers around the world. Being located in Ohio’s capital city—with immense resources and industry connections—offers tremendous benefits to students. We’re a powerful combination: a boutique-style, personalized MBA curriculum at a highly ranked, big-brand university that gives you clout with employers.
CA: Walk us through the life of an application in your office from an operational standpoint. What happens between the time an applicant clicks “submit” and the time the committee offers a final decision?
PN: At Fisher, once you submit your Full-Time MBA application, you should monitor your application checklist in the portal for a few business days to ensure all items are marked as received. For example, transcripts, GMAT or GRE test scores (if provided), and any other required materials must be reviewed before your application can be considered complete. We only review complete applications.
All qualified applications may receive an invitation to a live interview. If admitted, prospective students typically receive information about merit-based funding or scholarships within two weeks. All admitted students are automatically considered for these opportunities.
CA: How does your team approach the essay portion of the application specifically? What are you looking for as you read an essay? Are there common mistakes that applicants should try to avoid? What is one key thing they should keep in mind as they sit down to write?
PN: The essay is often reviewed alongside the résumé as part of the holistic application process. Consider how these two elements work together to tell your unique story. The résumé highlights what you’ve accomplished and your “wow” factor, while the essay focuses on fit—answering key questions about your goals and why you want an MBA.
Our admissions committee wants to see that your goals align with what Ohio State’s career-focused MBA program offers, ensuring a win-win. The most common essay mistakes include typos, failing to answer the prompt, demonstrating a lack of research about the program, and presenting an unclear personal vision. Yes, your goals may evolve during the program, but during the application process, you need to articulate your current goals clearly. View application requirements and deadlines.
CA: Could you tell us about your interview process? Approximately how many applicants do you interview? Who conducts the interview and what is the nature of the interview? Will your admissions interviews be in-person or virtual for the 2025-2026 admissions season?
PN: We receive a high number of Full-Time MBA applications, and all applicants are required to complete a recorded video interview. Approximately 25% of those applicants will be invited to a live interview—a strong indicator that we are seriously considering you for admission. Live interviews are offered both virtually and in person.
Our interview questions include a mix of behavioral and résumé-based prompts designed to assess several key qualities, including your research into the Fisher MBA, program fit (career goals), leadership, teamwork, empathy, accountability, work ethic, maturity, and your ability to be coached with a growth mindset.
CA: If your application features an impromptu video interview/video essay, how does it differ from the main interview? What should applicants know about this step in the process?
PN: A video interview is a required component of Ohio State’s Full-Time MBA application. You’ll have access to a few practice questions beforehand, but once you begin the official interview, you only get one attempt—just like in a live interview.
One key difference from the live interview is that most questions require verbal responses, while one question requires a written (typed) response. Consider using the S.T.A.R. method to structure your answers to behavioral questions. A few easy tips for success: communicate clearly and professionally (avoid reading from off-camera notes), and dress as you would for a live interview. Most importantly, let what is impressive and unique about you shine through. This part of the application will influence your admission outcome. Download tips here.
CA: Is there anything in particular international students should keep in mind during the admissions process?
PN: Applying early and connecting with our office are two critical steps. Applicants from outside the U.S. benefit greatly from active communication with us to better understand the program, how the admissions committee evaluates certain application components, and expected timelines.
With visa requirements to consider, it’s important to receive an admission decision as early as possible. As an international applicant, you may have additional requirements that take more time to fulfill. You should also review our English proficiency requirements and minimum score thresholds if you are not exempt from taking the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test.
CA: What is your favorite spot on campus?
PN: Tough call—my favorite thing to do is walk around campus and enjoy all the great spots! Even though Ohio State’s Fisher College of Business has its distinct area within the larger campus—creating a close-knit community and culture, I love venturing over to the Thompson Library (one of eleven libraries) and heading up to the 11th floor to take in the view over The Oval.
If I’m looking for some exercise, I stop by the Recreation and Physical Activity Center (RPAC). And of course, nothing beats attending a game at historic Ohio Stadium for some pure “Buckeye” sports pride. Watch this virtual tour video.
CA: Is there anything else you’d like to highlight about your MBA program or admissions process?
PN: There is, without a doubt, a clear “X factor” to consider at Ohio State: the way our faculty and staff genuinely care about each graduate student’s success. You should visit campus to experience the Midwest community of support—but it’s abundantly evident in our career coaching, academic advising, faculty one-on-one interactions, alumni network, and extracurricular opportunities.
When you combine that supportive environment with MBA elective personalization tailored to each student’s unique aspirations, it becomes an obvious top choice. Some of the optional personalization opportunities that excite me include participating in global programs that immerse you in another country or earning your Six Sigma Green Belt. I also love the data visualization and AI coursework, as well as the option to add a FinTech micro-credential. These are great ways to boost your résumé alongside the MBA degree.
Did you know you can even take some of your electives outside the business school? If our students wish to take a few classes in law, public affairs, public health, and other related fields, we welcome that level of customization.
