Application journey to the Broad MBA: Tips from an international student

Rishabh Singhal, MBA ’25

Embarking on my post-graduation journey at Michigan State University felt like destiny was playing a guiding hand in my life’s narrative. It began in 2022, when I decided to pursue my MBA and set out on the tumultuous road of GMAT preparation. The journey was far from smooth, especially for someone like me, hailing from India and navigating the unfamiliar terrain of the American education system and business schools. Amid the uncertainty, one beacon shone bright: the realization that the Broad College of Business at MSU claimed the top spot as the ultimate destination for an MBA in supply chain management.

My dual focus on GMAT preparation and the application process unfolded concurrently, with fate intervening at a crucial juncture. Six months into the preparation phase, I found myself yet to attend any b-school fairs. However, a spur-of-the-moment decision led me to a b-school fair in New Delhi, where MSU happened to be among the participating schools. It was here that I had a fortuitous encounter with Kate Irwin, associate director of admissions for the Full-Time MBA program at the Broad College. Our conversation proved to be a turning point for me, offering valuable insights into the program and injecting renewed vigor into my preparation and application efforts.

Driven by this encounter, I ventured into networking with alumni and current students, seeking their guidance on crafting impactful application essays and improving my chances of admission. Armed with a competitive GMAT score, a testament to months of dedication, I felt poised to submit my application in round two in January 2023. This milestone marked the culmination of my extensive networking and research efforts.

An interview invitation followed — a momentous step as this was my first MBA interview. The stakes were high, given that MSU was my dream school, and my nervous anticipation was palpable. Destiny took a distinctive turn, offering a familiar face as my interviewer: Kate Irwin. This unexpected familiarity transformed the interview into a more comfortable conversation, steering it away from a formal interview into a conversation about my motivations for pursuing an MBA and my aspirations for the future.

A month later, I was met with the unbelievable reality of an offer of admission from MSU, the sole destination of my aspirations. The offer was sweetened by a generous scholarship, like the cherry atop a delectable sundae. With immense confidence, I anticipate the Broad College of Business to be a crucible for my growth and development as a triumphant business leader.

In extending my gratitude, I acknowledge the pivotal role played by the admissions office, alumni and current students, whose unwavering support and guidance have illuminated this beautiful journey, turning a tale of chance into a purposeful narrative.