At Darden, we want you to come into your interview prepared to share your story with us.
Our signature interview style is conversational, so expect a friendly discussion where you can showcase your personal narrative. Knowing what to expect and how to approach each question can help you enter the interview with confidence. We want to know about your unique experiences, aspirations and potential impact here at Darden.
In our Full-Time MBA application process, interviews are conducted by either Admissions Committee members or Second Year students. In our Executive MBA, Part-Time MBA and Future Year Scholars application processes, interviews are conducted by members of our Admissions Committee.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing for the interview:
Timing
The timing of your interview is not indicative of your candidacy status. Applicants can be invited to interview at any time until the release for each round. Focus less on timing and more on preparing to present your best self during the conversation.
Your story is our focus
Our interviewers do not read your application or resume in advance of the interview. In addition, they do not have a copy of your resume with them during the interview. Their role is to focus on your story, motivations and alignment with Darden’s core values.
It’s a chance for our team to get to know you better and get a feel for things that may be harder to glean from the application alone – for example, how you communicate, how you might relate to your classmates and teammates, etc. With this in mind, approach the interview with confidence, knowing your interviewer wants to genuinely get to know you.
Come to the conversation prepared:
Share your journey
During the interview, you will have the opportunity to provide a 5-to-10-minute overview of your personal, academic and professional journey. Be mindful of this time expectation and highlight the most significant aspects of your story. We want to know the “why” of your story. What has shaped your character, values and ambitions, and what has motivated you over the course of your journey. Remember, the interview is a conversation. Leave room for the interviewer to ask you follow up questions that dive deeper into your unique story.
Why an MBA?
Why an MBA? Why Darden? How does the MBA align with your short- and long-term career goals? Be prepared to articulate the reasons you are pursuing an MBA and elaborate on your vision for your career. Being able to talk about what’s exciting to you about Darden in a way that goes beyond generic or website-level information to the personal considerations is a hallmark of a strong interview.
Moments of growth
Showcase your resilience and adaptability throughout your career. We want to understand how you handle difficult situations and learn from them. Come prepared to share an example of a challenging scenario in the workplace and how you approached and learned from it.
Collaboration skills
Share your experience working with people from different backgrounds, perspectives and experiences. Highlight your ability to collaborate, respect different viewpoints and foster inclusivity.
Ask thoughtful questions
Come prepared with inquiries that go beyond what is readily available on our website. Engage in a meaningful conversation with your interviewer about Darden’s culture and community in the classroom, Charlottesville and the Washington D.C. metro area. As much as we want to get to know you, we want you to get to know us!
Each student brings their full self to the MBA experience and your unique background, aspirations and perspectives shape your journey. We look forward to getting to know you on a personal level, hearing your story and understanding how you will contribute to the Darden community!
