3 Things Wharton Admissions Officers Look For: Interview

What are the three things that work in a candidate's favour when applying to Wharton? Hopeful candidates can take a few notes from this interview with Thomas Caleel, Director of Admissions and Financial Aid at Wharton.

Please tell us about your background and how you became Admissions Director at  Wharton.

Thomas Caleel: My background is diverse. I've been an entrepreneur, venture financier, and private equity professional. My experience has been very international. I've worked in Silicon Valley, Denver, Russia, and Switzerland, and traveled extensively throughout my career. I graduated with an Full-time MBA from Wharton Business School in 2003, to later be appointed as the Director of Admissions and Financial aid at the school.

What are the key profiles you look for in successful applicants?

Thomas Caleel: We look for three things - intellectual curiosity, demonstrated achievement, and passion. We really look across the whole spectrum of a candidate's life and the impact she has had on the world around her. Academic success and leadership potential, of course, are important as well. All in all, there isn't a specific profile we go for, but one question to ask yourself is not "what?" but "why?"

What preparation can candidates undertake to best prepare themselves? For example, should they take a GMAT prep course?

Thomas Caleel: The best thing to do is a critical self-assessment - why do you want an MBA? Why now? Why do you think Wharton is the right school for you? How do you think attending Wharton will contribute to your short and long-term goals? GMAT preparation courses are not necessary. You don't need to pay for a course or hire a consultant to be successful.

Do interviews play a big part in the selection process? How can candidates best prepare for the interview?

Thomas Caleel: Interviews are not "make or break". We interview 40% of applicants. You can't be admitted without an interview. There are no "right" answers. Do not memorise a script. Overpreparation hurts. Relax and be yourself. Don't believe the hype.

What questions should candidates ask when they attend the QS World MBA Tour?

Thomas Caleel: Do some research before the Tour. Pick out the four or five schools you like and ask questions and compare. It is very frustrating when candidates don't think. The biggest tip is to listen to the person next to you. You may find that your question has already been answered. Most importantly - what do you want to know?

Finally, do you have any advice for candidates with a non-business background?

Thomas Caleel: Yes. You are very welcome. You are coming to learn the business. That's fine. There is a big community at all top schools that are involved in different industries. Things you didn't even now exist job-wise can make the best of the MBA experience. If you do have a traditional business background, don't panic.  Don't try too hard. Everyone is unique. Talk about how you got to where you are, what you do outside of work and where you want to go after your MBA.