Ross MBA Event

Just got back from the event and my first impression...I am happy that I applied to Ross...the event lived up to my expectations!

There were three people, representing Ross, at the event - Ms. Kelly Kong Rogers (from the adcom. She is also an alumnus) and the alumni (Mr. Gautam Rao and Mr. Vikram Polavarapu) . The event started with a short (15 minutes) presentation on Ross MBA and what it has to offer. The presentation was precise, mostly bullet points with the speaker having to elaborate on the contents. It was ideal as it allowed people to listen to the speaker rather than continuously stare at the screen. Kelly stressed on the importance of teamwork throughout the presentation. It was typical Ross. Matt, if you are reading this - I liked it!

After the presentation, we had the alumni taking questions. As expected, one of the first questions was about the financial crisis and its effect on placements. Its difficult to predict the markets' future but the alumni, going by past trends, sounded optimistic. They felt that the market situation would improve over the next couple of years.

Then, there was the question about the cancellation of the Ross CitiAssist loan. Ross is doing its best to find alternatives for the cancelled CitiAssist loan that didn't require a US co-signer (applicants still have the option of leveraging the UoM CitiAssist loan that requires a US co-signer) Finding a solution for this situation is at the top of the Dean’s priority list. The School is actively exploring loan options to ensure that Ross continues to be financially feasible for high caliber students from around the world. At this time, however, the program also advises international students to explore all sources of funding within their own countries, such as government scholarships and loans, private agencies, and bank loan programs, as well as personal funding sources. It also encourages early applications because a majority of the merit scholarships are available to those who apply in Rounds one and two. Like Darden, Ross too is taking into account its international students' concerns. I am happy!

I had earlier mentioned in the blog that all the adcom members are away conducting information sessions. I was contacted by the adcom this evening and was informed that they have started reviewing the applications. Now that's good news - applicants can hope to hear from Ross in the near future!

To be honest, my interaction with the Ross alumni and a current student, prior to my application submission, had had me amazed. The loyalty within the community is overwhelming! It would be awesome to be a part of such a close knit group.

On this note I'll end my post...its late and time I crashed...

Go blue! :-D