Guys,
I thought I will add my two cents here now that the feeling has sunk in. It's a long and arduous procedure for any b-school call. So, the very first advice is to stay calm and patient. I know it's easier said than done but it's important. Now, let's look at application steps one-by-one.
1. APPLICATION: I started working on my application on Sept.10 (for Sept.15 deadline) and worked for the next 5 days with one goal in mind. So, for those of you, who think it's too late, it's not. Stop worrying and get on with your application.
2. RECOMMENDERS: Choose recommenders well in advance. If you haven't done it yet for R2, it's still not too late. Talk to your recommenders, let them know your situation, and how valuable their recommendations will be. It's not wrong to tell them how you think recommendation letters should come out (ask them to stress on your leadership attributes, ask them to give concrete examples. Simple saying - "You are a great leader" will not do any justice. It has to be backed up with solid examples).
3. ESSAYS: Remember, the only thing that you truly have control over in your application is 'Essays'. This is your chance to portray who you're both as a professional and as an individual. As a thumb rule, I generally use 2 experiences from work place and one personal experience to highlight my profile. If you cannot come up with a story about your personal life, it's ok. But if you have a story, please use it by all means. AdCom loves to see your personal side. Answer the questions asked in essay.
4. GMAT: Stop fretting about your score. If you have decided to apply, concentrate on creating a strong profile. I personally think if you're in 680+ range, GMAT is least of your worries.
5. INTERVIEW: Go through your entire profile. Read what you've written in your essays. Lot of times, we say things that we forget. It goes without saying that prepare for typical interview questions. I am not going to repeat those questions here. Lot of people have already shared their interview experiences. Be CLEAR about your future goals. Atleast have some conviction when you say what you want to do. Everyone understands that goals change. But RIGHT NOW, have conviction in what you have written in Short Term Goals essay. If you can't defend it, it's a wrong career choice or you just haven't done enough research/introspection about who you want to be. Before interview, spend considerable time on ISB website to know why you want to be at ISB, what distinguishes ISB from other schools etc. Ask questions that's not readily available on ISB website. It shows that you have done your research and you're genuinely interested in ISB. Dress well, speak with confidence. AND FINALLY REMEMBER THAT YOU'RE AN EXPERT IN YOUR FIELD. SPEAK WITH CONFIDENCE AND CONVICTION. SHOW THEM THAT YOU'RE READY TO DEFEND WHAT YOU HAVE SAID IN YOUR APPLICATION.
6. Finally, I won't claim that I wasn't nervous through the entire procedure. It's natural. Just try and concentrate on doing what's in your hand. Don't worry about APPLICATION NUMBER CHANGE, 3/4/5/6 DIGIT APPLICATION NUMBER :). Means nothing to you. In the end, if any of you want me to help with your application, I will be glad to help you guys out. You can always drop me a line at [email protected].
, isb/no isb, i know you'll make good out of your life.