Basic Information
– Program: MBA x MS (Dual Degree)
– Round: Round 1 (Early Decision)
– Interview Date: October 31, 2025
– Format: Virtual (Zoom), ~40 minutes
– Interviewer: Admissions Committee Member (Associate Director)
– Type: Resume-based, Conversational
– Decision: Denied
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Questions Asked
1. Walk me through your background and what’s leading you to the program.
2. Why MBAxMS at Columbia specifically?
3. Summer plans – entrepreneurship or traditional internship?
4. Long-term goals – where do you see yourself in a few years?
5. How would you describe your leadership style?
6. Tell me about a time you disagreed with a team decision. How did you navigate it?
7. Example of ensuring someone excluded was heard/included?
8. Specific classes, resources, or clubs you’re excited about?
9. Extracurricular or community engagement experiences?
10. What impact or legacy do you hope to have?
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What Surprised Me
– Much more casual and conversational than expected
– Interviewer was warm and friendly from the start
– No curve ball or tricky questions – everything felt straightforward
– Interview lasted ~40 minutes (longer than the expected 30)
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What Didn’t Surprise Me
– Standard MBA questions (background, goals, leadership, “why this school”)
– Strong emphasis on “Why MBAxMS specifically?”
– Transparent discussion about program details during Q&A
– Clear emphasis on CBS’s collaborative culture
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Conclusions About the School
– Pay-It-Forward Culture: Students and alumni are generous with their time – multiple current students responded to LinkedIn outreach
– Collaborative Environment: Supportive rather than cutthroat atmosphere
– Program Growth: Expanding from ~30 to 45-50 students, showing strong institutional support
– Invested Leadership: Both deans are actively involved in the MBAxMS program
– Receptive to Feedback: Since the program is new, administration is open to student input
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Advice for Future Applicants
1. Know Your Story: Clearly connect your background to why you need an MBA and the MS component
2. Articulate Why MBAxMS: Explain why the dual degree specifically (not just MBA) fits your goals
3. Research Eugene Lang Center: Know specific classes, professors, or resources
4. Connect with Current Students: They’re responsive on LinkedIn and provide valuable insights
5. Prepare for Conversational Format: Don’t over-rehearse; practice speaking naturally
6. Have Good Questions Ready: The Q&A portion was substantial
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Final Thoughts
Despite being denied, the interview experience was positive. The CBS community genuinely embodies the collaborative culture it promotes. Approach the interview as a conversation, be authentic, and clearly articulate why MBAxMS is the right fit for your goals.
Good luck!
