What Marshall Looks for in MBA Applicants
Associate Director of MBA Admissions, Laura Hartman, knows what it takes to thrive at the University of Southern California, USC Marshall School of Business.
“I love a well-rounded candidate, which I think really reflects the well-rounded nature of our MBA program,” she explains. (00:23)
The perfect mix is threefold. Firstly, applicants should demonstrate academic strength through transcripts or standardized test scores, such as the GMAT or GRE.
Secondly, USC Marshall looks for students who prioritize career development. Work experience and clear post-MBA goals make applicants stand out. And thirdly, during the interview, the school looks for MBA candidates who are a good program and cohort fit.
Ultimately, the school looks for students who want to add to a community that drives growth through those three lenses.
Why Applicants From Any Background Can Thrive at Marshall
Diversity is a key ingredient in the USC Marshall MBA classroom. 10 to 15 years ago, many applicants came from a business background and were looking to expand their careers in finance or consulting. Since then, the cohorts have gotten a lot more diverse. Personal fit is more crucial for this program than what you majored in.
“You could have majored in anything and worked in any industry, and be a good fit for our MBA. Now what we’re seeing is students wanting to go into a really wide range of industries,” Laura shares. (01:36)
While finance and consulting remain popular tracks, the program increasingly attracts those wanting to pivot into technology, entertainment, nonprofit, real estate, and beyond.
This variety enriches classroom discussions and broadens peer learning. Whether you’re pivoting or accelerating your career, the USC Marshall MBA offers the support and flexibility to support your journey.
Diversity That Drives Crucial Real-World Skills
USC Marshall embraces diversity in various ways. Laura notes, “Diversity has a lot of definitions…. but we’re also looking for diversity of thought and perspective.” (02:08) That includes differences in background, education, geography, industry, and professional function.
Students learn from classmates who challenge their assumptions and broaden their worldview. “You’re able to learn from all of your classmates who have very different experiences from you, and that’s really reflective of what you’ll face in your career, being on a cross-functional team,” she says. (02:37)
Diversity fuels dialogue, and dialogue builds teamworking and communication skills. These are crucial skills needed to navigate today’s globalized and interdisciplinary world.
More Than a Degree: Personal Growth at USC Marshall
Furthermore, at USC Marshall, MBA learning goes far beyond textbooks. Laura explains that the most powerful lessons often come from introspection and peer learning.
“What you’re learning a lot about is yourself. About what you’re good at, where your strengths lie, and what your growth areas or gaps are,” she says. (03:04) Students sharpen critical soft skills like communication, leadership, resilience, and personal branding.
These are skills that you learn from practice, and doing that goes beyond textbook knowledge. These skills set graduates up for success. Laura affirms, “You’re really going to leave [USC Marshall] the best professional version of yourself, and you’ll be able to face whatever the market brings in the future.” (03:31)
An MBA That Builds Market Resilience
In volatile job markets, a USC Marshall MBA helps candidates to stay competitive. Laura explains that during market downturns, many students choose to upskill with an MBA. An MBA can help candidates stand out in a competitive job market and come out ahead.
The program prepares graduates for their desired roles but equally prepares them to pivot when needed through transferable skills. During the program, graduates learn about building a plan B and a plan C. This way, graduates are prepared for a variety of pathways. (04:15)
Whether the economy shifts or your goals change, your MBA from Marshall helps you stay ready.
Career Support That Never Stops
Career development at USC Marshall begins on day one, and it doesn’t end at graduation. “We have a comprehensive career center, and I think that’s one of our greatest advantages at USC Marshall. Beyond the classroom experience, you have a customized career development plan,” Laura emphasizes. (04:47)
In fact, the very first week of the program is Career Week. It kicks off the program with industry deep dives tailored to your goals and how to achieve them. Whether it’s a career pivot or to accelerate in your current field, you receive support with that.
“We understand that it’s okay to be a career changer; an MBA is a great place for that. Our career center can really help you navigate everything from getting that internship, helping polish your skills for interviews, or for your resume. Even learning about what companies are hiring to help you get that job post-MBA.” (05:23)
Moreover, career support at USC Marshall is a lifelong benefit. Alumni can always return for guidance.
L.A. and the World as Your Classroom
Few programs offer the same geographic advantage as USC Marshall. “There is every imaginable industry right in our backyard,” Laura highlights. (05:55)
From entertainment, sports, gaming, fintech, real estate, consulting, to defense, Los Angeles offers an excellent location for recent graduates. LA is an extension of the USC Marshall classroom, as it leverages this unique setting for real-world experiences.
MBA students work with established local companies in consulting projects. Additionally, for the past 25 years, students have been able to partake in global consulting projects as well.
USC Marshall students delve into local industries and have opportunities to network internationally.
Why USC Marshall Is the MBA That Moves You Forward
Whether you’re pivoting careers, building leadership skills, or exploring new industries, the USC Marshall MBA equips you for success in any environment. From L.A.-based projects to global consulting, from personal development to lifelong career support, Marshall builds leaders who are ready for anything.
If you’re searching for a program that’s personal, practical, and powerful, Marshall might just be your next step.
Are you applying for an MBA? Find all the support you need on our Admissions page.
