Why Is Ross School of Business Not On The Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It Kinda Is!)
So, you’re applying to Michigan, and your sights are set on the Ross School of Business. You’re ready to conquer the world of finance, marketing, and all things business, but there’s one little snag: you can’t seem to find Ross on the Common App.
Hold your horses, aspiring business mogul! You’re not going crazy. While Ross isn’t directly listed as a separate entity on the Common App, it’s not exactly hiding in a secret vault either.
Think of it like this: The Common App is your basic application form, the one that gets you into the University of Michigan as a whole. But, just like a pizza with unlimited toppings, you can choose your specialization later.
Here’s the breakdown:
- The “U-M First-Year Admitting Unit” is your gateway to Ross. When you fill out the Common App, you’ll see a prompt to select a “U-M First-Year Admitting Unit.” This is where you’ll choose “The Stephen M. Ross School of Business” if you want to dive into the world of finance and marketing right from your freshman year.
- “Preferred Admission” is your backup plan. Let’s say you want to explore other academic areas first, but you’re still dead set on Ross. You can select “Preferred Admission” to let them know your business ambitions, and then officially apply to Ross in your sophomore year.
But, wait, there’s more! The Ross School of Business has a twist that’ll make your head spin faster than a stock market crash. They don’t just rely on the Common App. They also have their own little “party” called the Ross Admissions Portfolio.
The Ross Admissions Portfolio: A Business Case for Your Dreams
Think of the Ross Admissions Portfolio as the extra credit assignment for your business school application. It’s your chance to show off your unique business acumen and passion.
Here’s the deal:
- You gotta submit it through SlideRoom (not your usual Common App shenanigans). So, get ready to learn a new platform, because this is where the real fun begins.
- The Ross Admissions Portfolio consists of two key parts:
- Business Case Discussion: Forget your usual college essays. This is where you choose a real-world issue and analyze its business implications. Think of it as a mini-MBA project that shows off your problem-solving skills.
- Additional Materials: This is a catch-all section for anything that’ll help you stand out from the crowd. Think resume, transcripts, extracurricular activities, and your favorite business-related book review (be creative!).
Remember, the Ross Admissions Portfolio is your chance to truly show off your business potential. It’s not just about your GPA; it’s about demonstrating your passion and analytical skills.
Why All This Extra Drama?
You might be thinking, “Why does Ross make things so complicated? Can’t they just simplify things like other schools?”
Well, here’s the thing:
- Ross is highly selective. They want to ensure that every student who walks through their doors is genuinely passionate about business and ready to hustle.
- The Common App is a general application. It’s great for getting into the university, but Ross needs a deeper dive into your business ambitions.
Think of it this way: If you’re applying to a business school, they want to make sure you actually know your business, not just like the idea of business. The Ross Admissions Portfolio gives them a deeper understanding of your capabilities.
The Bottom Line
So, while Ross might not be on the Common App in the traditional sense, it’s definitely not hiding in a corner. It’s there, waiting for you to shine.
Remember, the Ross Admissions Portfolio is your opportunity to showcase your unique business skills and passion. Don’t just write a generic essay, show them that you’re ready to make a real impact.
And if you’re still scratching your head, don’t be afraid to reach out for some expert guidance! Our community at JobLoving is here to help you navigate this complicated world of college applications and make your dream of attending Ross a reality. Let’s get you on your way to becoming a business superstar!