One of the best ways for prospective business school students to learn about how well they might fit with an MBA program is by interfacing with enrolled students who come from a similar cultural background. To facilitate this research, top business schools are offering diversity events this fall to provide aspiring MBAs an opportunity to attend educational panels, interact with alumni and students, and glean strategic insight regarding application development. Additionally, and depending on the school, prospective students who are not from underrepresented groups but share and uphold a school’s diversity mission can also attend. Note that some MBA programs require interested candidates to register, or even apply, to participate or attend these events.
Wharton First Generation Virtual Visit Day
This virtual event held on Friday, September 22, 2023, was open to all prospective Wharton MBA students who are first-generation college graduates. The event included panel discussions with the Wharton 1Gen club.
Berkeley Haas Diversity Symposium
Berkeley Haas will host an on-campus symposium on October 13–14, 2023, for both prospective and current students as well as faculty, staff, and alumni to discuss diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. The school’s website notes that prospective students from “traditionally underrepresented backgrounds” in graduate business schools will learn about the “remarkable diversity” at Haas through speakers, community-building opportunities, and information sessions.
Belonging Days at Yale SOM
These on-campus events are scheduled between late September and early October 2023. Yale SOM invites prospective students to its campus to discover the school’s vibrant and diverse community. Attendees will receive a fee waiver to apply to Yale SOM.
Duke MBA Workshop
Established in 1982, this annual event will be hosted by leaders from Duke Fuqua’s Black Business Student Association and American Latine/x Management Association and will be held on campus on November 16–18, 2023. The workshop is open to students on an invitation-only basis and is designed to provide insight into Fuqua’s admissions process, allowing candidates to network with the Duke community and minority alumni. Interested prospective students are welcome to apply by October 9. Invitations to the workshop will be sent on or before October 18.
UCLA Anderson Embracing Diversity Conference
On November 4, 2023, Anderson will host this event as part of its broader Embracing Diversity Week, allowing prospective students to connect with enrolled students, network with alumni, and learn about the school’s inclusive culture. Interested candidates can apply by October 29. There is no fee to attend the event.
Vanderbilt MBA Diversity and Inclusion Symposium
Vanderbilt Owen will host its Diversity and Inclusion Symposium on November 11, 2023 (during Discover Vanderbilt Business, also taking place on November 11). All prospective students are encouraged to attend and will be able to participate in a mock class, learn more about the school’s commitment to diversity, and connect with students, staff, faculty members, and alumni.
Kellogg Black Management Association Conference
This event, to be held on October 28, 2023, is the longest-running annual conference organized by students at the Kellogg School of Management. Prospective students have the opportunity to engage with Kellogg students, alumni, and administration members. This year’s theme will be “Money & Power.” Guest speakers from the business community will be present to engage with the community on this topic. Continue to monitor the school’s website for more details regarding when tickets will be available.
CBS Spotlight On: BBSA & HBA
The CBS Office of Admissions, Black Business Student Association, and Hispanic Business Association will hold a full-day event this fall that will allow prospective students to learn more about student life, academics, financial aid, and the admissions process. For more information, please reach out to the BBSA.
Cornell Johnson Diversity Hosting Weekend
Johnson Diversity Hosting Weekend is Cornell’s premier diversity hosting event, taking place on October 27–28, 2023 in Ithaca, NY. The event, which focuses on advancing diversity and gender equity in business, is open to prospective students who are underrepresented, women, LGBTQ+, or allies. Participants will gain insight into admissions application strategies, learn more about the Johnson MBA program and student experience, and network with students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Applications are due by October 9.
Stern Immersion: Diversity Weekend
On October 20–22, 2023, members of NYU Stern’s admissions office will partner with members of the school’s Association for Black and Hispanic Business Students and Stern Women in Business to provide prospective students the opportunity to learn more about the Stern community and experience. Prospective students may attend a mock class and panel discussions and connect with Stern’s affinity groups. Advance registration, which is now open on the school’s website, is required to attend.