MBA applicants well-versed with the elite MBA landscape know how tough it is get into an M7 business school.
Now consider executive, part-time and weekend MBA programs that are mostly targeted at ‘senior professionals’ – a phrase that indirectly refers to students who’re expected to pay the full tuition. The number and quantum of scholarships drop even further for these programs.
Combine the two and the chances of getting an admit with scholarship go down further.
Being admitted to an M7 weekend MBA program with a scholarship is an accomplishment few can showcase. Avinash belongs to that rarefied class.
The story also highlights how MBA alumni of a premier Indian business school rallied around him, after an unfortunate event put the continuity of his undergrad education at risk.
How I got into Kellogg & Booth
Weekend MBA at M7 Business Schools
by Avinash Lanka
Hello, I’m Avinash Lanka. My professional journey thus far in the automotive industry has been marked by a commitment to excellence and a passion for Power Electronics.
As Oscar Wilde aptly put it –
We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.
I have always strived to embody this spirit in both my professional and personal endeavors.
Owing to parents from multilingual backgrounds, I grew up in a vibrant, plurilingual family setting. I completed my schooling from The Hyderabad Public School, Ramanthapur, one of the premier schools in India.
This institution provided me with an exceptional foundation and invaluable experiences that have profoundly shaped my professional journey. My friends would describe me as a very compassionate, calm and fun-loving person with uplifting enthusiasm.
Since a very young age, music has always been more than a hobby for me. This musical inclination exposed me to the rich and varied styles of Indian music, reflective of my family’s cultural tapestry.
I have been training in Carnatic classical music since the age of 5 and this long music journey has pushed the limits of both my creative and artistic expression.
It provides me with delightful experiences and connections that continue to improve and transform me, while showcasing my talent to the world and fueling my passions. I have been privileged to receive multiple prestigious awards in music, both in India and USA.
Through these recognitions, I have had the opportunity of performing at various prestigious venues, collaborating with renowned artists.
My professional background
I currently hold the position of Systems Test Manager at BorgWarner Inc., a prominent leader within the automotive sector.
This role involves the strategic design and execution of comprehensive testing frameworks, rigorous analysis of system performance and the coordination of cross-functional teams to ensure optimal system functionality.
This position requires a deep expertise in both systems engineering and advanced testing methodologies to drive excellence in the technical offerings.
In this role, I have had the privilege of managing diverse teams across 7 countries. This global dimension of my position allows me to oversee intricate testing and validation processes while benefiting from a rich tapestry of perspectives and expertise that have been both professionally rewarding and personally enriching.
Why weekend MBA after a Master’s instead of full-time MBA
Originally, I envisioned undertaking a full-time MBA program to immerse myself fully in the academic environment and accelerate my career advancement.
However, given the pivotal stage of my professional trajectory and the significant responsibilities associated with my current role, I found it necessary to reevaluate this course of action.
Consequently, I made the strategic decision to enroll in a weekend MBA program. This approach allows me to integrate advanced business education with my ongoing professional commitments, thereby enabling me to continue excelling in my current position while simultaneously acquiring the skills and knowledge required for future career progression.
Choosing the best admissions consultant for M7 schools
I had been following MBA Crystal Ball updates on LinkedIn prior to reaching out to them and knew about their excellent track record with M7 business schools.
I worked with Manish through my MBA application journey to both Booth and Kellogg.
His expert guidance on the essays was characterized by a meticulous and strategic approach, which was crucial in navigating the complexities of the application requirements for these prestigious programs.
Notably, Manish demonstrated exceptional flexibility, adeptly accommodating my demanding professional schedule and ensuring that our collaborative efforts were seamlessly integrated into my busy timetable.
The personalized insights and nuanced recommendations (a long discussion on the choice of recommenders for example.) that Manish shared were critical in refining my application materials and aligning them with the distinctive attributes and expectations of Booth and Kellogg.
Manish was particularly optimistic about securing a double win, as I had previously communicated to him of my admission to Booth. His anticipation was rooted in the hope of achieving favorable outcomes with both Booth and Kellogg, given the strategic guidance and tailored support he provided throughout the application process.
His enthusiasm was palpable when I informed him that we had ultimately secured our double win with successful admission to both these M7 programs.
My Application Strategy
In pursuit of my career aspirations and with a strategic emphasis on gaining admission to an M7 institution, I meticulously applied to two highly regarded MBA programs- Booth and Kellogg.
This aspiration underscores my commitment to aligning my professional trajectory with the esteemed standards and unparalleled reputation of the M7 schools.
The decision to target these programs was driven by my desire to leverage the rigorous academic environment and expansive network that an M7 education offers.
With myself working in Indiana, geographical consideration also played a significant role in my decision-making process, as it allows for a more manageable balance between academic commitments and personal responsibilities.
The feedback I received from alumni of Booth and Kellogg was profoundly insightful and remarkably constructive.
From Booth, I garnered perspectives on Booth’s invaluable instruction on frameworks tailored to address ambiguity, a prevalent challenge in today’s dynamic business landscape. This will be aptly complemented with leadership lessons through LEAD and the wealth of networking opportunities offered by IBEP.
Conversely, feedback from Kellogg alumni illuminated the program’s collaborative nature with a strong focus on experiential learning. They also emphasized the close-knit community, and the enduring relationships formed during the program, which they consider a significant advantage in both their personal and professional lives.
Results
I have been granted admission to both Booth and Kellogg. Additionally, Booth has extended a scholarship of $15,000, which further underscores the recognition of my candidacy and provides significant financial support.
Booth was unequivocally my foremost priority between the schools I applied. Its distinguished reputation, rigorous and flexible academic curriculum, and strategic alignment with my career aspirations positioned it at the top of my preferences.
I am delighted to confirm that I will commence my studies at Booth in the fall, embarking on what promises to be a transformative educational journey.
Lessons I picked up
On this day, as I reflect on the recent admission offers from Booth and Kellogg, I find myself poignantly missing my late father, whose presence I keenly miss. The joy of this achievement is tinged with the sorrow of his absence, and I am reminded of the profound impact he had on my life.
Additionally, I deeply appreciate the sacrifices made by my mother, whose unwavering dedication and selflessness have been foundational to my achievements. Equally, I am extremely thankful for the steadfast support of my wife, whose encouragement and partnership have been a constant source of strength and motivation.
Amidst these reflections, I am also filled with immense gratitude towards the Class of 2008 ISB students who generously supported my undergraduate education following the untimely demise of my father, who was working at ISB and was on an official tour at the time.
Their contribution played a crucial role in enabling me to reach this pivotal moment in my career. This support has been instrumental in my journey, and I remain profoundly appreciative of their role in helping me achieve this significant accomplishment.
To effectively position oneself for admission into top M7 institutions, it is imperative to commence the preparatory work well in advance. This involves strategic cultivation of a robust and multifaceted profile, which includes not only substantial professional achievements and leadership experiences but also a demonstrable commitment to personal and academic excellence.
For candidates from automotive industry (specially from STEM fields), following can help to build a compelling profile for top M7 programs:
- Highlighting any positions that involve leading teams, managing projects or driving strategic initiatives within the same or multiple geographic locations.
- Highlighting any positions tied to working on the next generation technology within the automotive industry (For example, next gen inverters, viper technologies, onboard chargers).
Additionally, this point emphasizes the need to understand the market dynamics, challenges and future trends within the automotive industry. - Using metrics to quantify milestones achieved (For example, cost savings, improvements in efficiency and translated dollar savings, processes defined within the company, patents).
- Engaging in continuous learning (For example, DFSS Green/ Black Belt, Shainin, participating in SAE/IEEE conferences, becoming an IEEE peer reviewer).
- Developing cross functional skills (For example, working in roles tied to engineering, program management, manufacturing, operations management to understand how each competency functions).
- Volunteering for company initiatives (For example, joining DEI council, STEM related volunteering at schools).
Reach out for help with your weekend, part-time and executive MBA applications: info@mbacrystalball.com
