| Page 2 of 2 < |
School Adds PowerPoint to Application
Chicago's does have a few ground rules: no hyperlinks, and no video. Beyond that, "I really don't know what we're going to get," Martinelli said.
It's not surprising the first PowerPoint application is coming from the world of business schools. In an undergraduate admissions office there would likely be worries about the applicant pool's familiarity with and access to technology. Applicants to Chicago's MBA program generally already know Facebook and YouTube and are accustomed to presenting themselves online. They can also afford the $200 application fee. (True technophobes can fill out four pages in another fashion and mail them in).
  Rose Martinelli, associate dean for student recruitment and admissions at the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business stands in the Gleacher Center lobby in Chicago, Friday, July 27, 2007. As technology advances the school is now requiring applicants to include a PowerPoint presentation in their applications. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast) (Charles Rex Arbogast - AP) Partnership
Resources for anyone who runs a small business or wants to start one, featuring advice and solutions.
• Business EQ: What Not to Wear
• Starting a Business Updated Financial Features |
• Technology isn't a hurdle for most University of Chicago applicants, but "other schools might have to think about that," said Nicole Chestang, chief client officer for the Graduate Management Admission Council, a worldwide group of management programs that oversees the GMAT entrance exam.
It's also business schools that traditionally have the most boring essays, focusing on workplace accomplishments rather than passions or unusual talents, but which are increasingly interested in creativity.
Avidan predicts some applicants will be turned off by the requirement, but says it's an opportunity for clever students whose test scores and other application materials might not stand out to shine.
"If there's one foundation of business, it's innovation, and this is your chance to elevate yourself and show you can do something innovative," he said.
The PowerPoint presentations will be the last part of the application the admissions office considers its decision.
"This can determine whether or not you get admitted," he said. "Here you are. Show us."
___
On the Net:
