The guide to THE NYU MBA Interview!

If you’re preparing for an MBA interview at NYU Stern, congratulations! I am sure you have worked very hard ion your essays, statements, "six-image" question. But now is the last step at NYU.

Securing an interview is an achievement in itself and reflects your strong candidacy. However, the interview is a critical step where NYU Stern assesses whether you’re the right fit for its unique culture and values. This article provides a detailed guide to help you navigate the interview process, understand the format, and excel on the big day.

Understanding the NYU Stern MBA Interview

1. The Interview Format

• Blind Interview: Unlike some schools, the NYU Stern interview is blind. This means that your interviewer will have access only to your résumé, not your full application. This setup allows for a more neutral evaluation based on your interpersonal skills, experience, and responses during the conversation.
• Length and Mode: Interviews typically last 30-45 minutes and are conducted virtually or in person. The format is conversational but structured.

2. What Stern Looks For

Stern evaluates candidates using its IQ+EQ framework:

• IQ (Intellectual Intelligence): Your academic background, analytical abilities, and problem-solving skills.
• EQ (Emotional Intelligence): Your self-awareness, empathy, interpersonal skills, and ability to work in diverse teams.

How to Prepare for Your NYU Stern MBA Interview

1. Research Stern’s Core Values

NYU Stern emphasizes its commitment to being "inspired by the world, driven by purpose." Familiarize yourself with their values:

• IQ+EQ: Reflect on how you demonstrate intellectual and emotional intelligence.
• Collaboration and Inclusion: Prepare examples of how you've contributed to diverse teams or inclusive environments.
• Innovative Thinking: Think of instances where you’ve brought creative solutions to challenges.

2. Practice Commonly Asked Questions

While no two interviews are the same, here are common questions Stern MBA candidates often encounter:

Background and Career Goals (Do read your essays and CV particularly to align on short term and long term goals along with area of interest filled in application)

• Walk me through your résumé.
• Why do you want to pursue an MBA at this point in your career?
• Why NYU Stern? Why now?

Fit and Contribution

• How do you embody Stern’s IQ+EQ framework?
• Share an example of when you demonstrated leadership in a challenging situation.
• How will you contribute to the Stern community?

Behavioral Questions

• Tell me about a time you received critical feedback. How did you handle it?
• Describe a time when you faced a conflict with a teammate. How did you resolve it?
• How do you manage stress and maintain a work-life balance?

Unexpected or Challenging Questions

• How would your colleagues describe you?
• What is one misconception people have about you?
• If you could invite any three people (alive or dead) to dinner, who would they be and why?

3. Prepare Your Stories

Use the STAR Framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. This ensures you provide clear, concise, and impactful answers.

For example:

• Situation: Briefly describe the context.
• Task: Outline your responsibility or challenge.
• Action: Highlight what you did specifically.
• Result: Share the measurable outcomes or impact.

4. Be Ready for Follow-ups

Stern interviewers often probe deeper into your responses to gauge your self-awareness and decision-making process. Be prepared to elaborate on your answers or discuss lessons learned.

Key Tips for the NYU Stern Interview

1. Showcase EQ in Your Responses: Stern highly values emotional intelligence. Demonstrate self-awareness, empathy, and adaptability through your examples.
2. Highlight Your Fit with Stern: Articulate how Stern’s values align with your own and how you’ll thrive in its collaborative environment.
3. Be Genuine: Authenticity goes a long way in building rapport with your interviewer. Avoid rehearsed answers; instead, focus on being honest and reflective.
4. Know Your Résumé Inside Out: Since it’s a blind interview, your résumé will guide the conversation. Be ready to discuss every detail with confidence.
5. Ask Thoughtful Questions: Towards the end of the interview, you’ll often have the chance to ask questions. Use this opportunity to inquire about Stern’s culture, initiatives, or programs, showing your genuine interest in the school.

All in all!

The NYU Stern MBA interview is not just about showcasing your qualifications, it’s about proving that you’re a great fit for Stern’s unique culture.

With thorough preparation, a clear understanding of Stern’s values, and a focus on your IQ+EQ balance, you can leave a lasting impression.

In the end, its all about, "DO YOU FIT THE NYU CULTURE?". Conduct yourself with enthusiasm and have a good conversation.

All the best!