How to Answer: Walk me through your background and how the steps you took led you to apply here at Darden. Please include formative experiences from your childhood.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an University of Virginia Darden MBA interview.
14. Walk me through your background and how the steps you took led you to apply here at Darden. Please include formative experiences from your childhood.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
UVA Darden MBA interviews are currently conducted using a blind format, meaning that your interviewer has not reviewed your resume prior to your interview. Interviews at Darden typically begin with this question and lean on the information you provide to shape their remaining questions.
Written by Karrie Day on February 28th, 2023
What You Should Say
Most candidates report an interview that lasts anywhere from thirty to sixty minutes. It may be a struggle, but you will need to tell a compelling story while only hitting the highlights. Keep in mind your interviewer has not seen your resume, so it will be important to cover the following:
Background:
- Childhood educational experience
- Why you selected your undergraduate school and program
- Major companies you have worked for/roles worked in (group similar roles together if you have an extensive list in categories like 'early career', or 'my time at XYZ company')
- Why you are pursuing an MBA
- Why you chose UVA Darden
Themes to include:
- Commitment to your studies
- Solid work ethic
- Professional growth
- Well-defined value system
- Global travel or projects
Written by Karrie Day on February 28th, 2023
Answer Example
"School was always important in my home. Both of my parents were the first in their families to go to college, and they taught my siblings and me how to apply ourselves to be successful. I knew I wanted to go to college at UVA from a young age. My dad is a UVA alumnus and I wanted to carry on that legacy. However, the world had other plans.
I ended up pursuing my undergraduate degree in Finance at the University of South Carolina. Money was tight and I received a full scholarship there. The Darla Moore School of Business professors taught me a lot, and I built a strong network there. I studied hard and was offered a corporate finance internship at Milliken and Company. I never say myself working in manufacturing, but I did my research and they were an impressive company.
I was ultimately offered a full-time role there and I now lead a team of financial analysts who support operations and technology initiatives. Working at Milliken has been a wonderful experience. I have partnered with several departments to support them through financial analysis and strategic planning. I have also had the opportunity to lead others and work with amazing mentors.
While I am happy with my role, I feel confident it is time for me to grow professionally. I have always planned to acquire my MBA and I am fortunate to be in a life situation that will allow me to take the time away from work to pursue it full-time. I researched several programs, but I feel strongly that UVA Darden is the home for me. Your program is in direct alignment with my values and you have partnerships with some of the most impressive companies in business today. You understand that values create value and that is the kind of program I want to call home for the next two years."
Written by Karrie Day on February 28th, 2023