Done with Applications

Its been a long four months since I started working on my first application. At that time, I had not imagined that I would be applying to more than one school. Probably because I was more than hopeful that I would get admitted if I gave my everything to the application and demonstrated my passion towards the program.

Things didnt exactly work out as planned and I was put on 'Reconsider Later' at Columbia. While there is still hope left and I will do my best to convert that into an admit, I did apply to other programs as well. Some may argue why apply to Wharton and Harvard (both better ranked and presumably tougher to get into than Columbia) but I firmly believe that I will not benefit as much from a business program outside of the top 5 schools. After many long conversations with alums, friends and mentors, the general consensus was 'do it from a top 5 or dont bother.'

I still feel I know Columbia's program most closely and will be most comfortable there. Given my background, I also feel that Harvard is a long shot for me but it was worth the effort once. On the positive side, I did apply to NYU Stern which I think is a very good program too. Working on three applications in the past one month has taken absolutely everything out of me - specially HBS with 7 required and 1 optional essay.

Its a relief to have submitted all my applications and just hope for the best now. Its also time to start thinking of a Plan B, incase I get dinged from all of my schools. Hopefully it wont come to that. Good luck to all of you!