Artificial intelligence is here, but how much is too much when it comes to your MBA application?

This week, host Zach Fernebok sits down with Loubna Bouamane, founder of Admission Concierge and former Director of MBA Admissions, to explore the nuanced role AI now plays in business school applications. From brainstorming essays to managing deadlines, AI tools like ChatGPT can support candidates, but there's a fine line between using AI and outsourcing your voice.

Loubna shares the real risks of overrelying on AI, explains how admissions teams are adapting to this new landscape, and offers actionable advice on preserving authenticity in an increasingly automated world. If you're considering using AI in your MBA journey (or already are) this episode is your guide to staying smart, ethical, and unforgettable.

Admission Concierge: https://admissionconcierge.com/

1. AI can help, but it can’t (and shouldn’t) tell your story.
Using AI for structure, grammar, and idea generation can be helpful, but outsourcing your personal voice leads to generic, shallow, and forgettable applications.

2. Authenticity is your biggest competitive edge.
Admissions officers can spot essays that lack real reflection. What stands out isn’t perfect prose. It’s self-awareness, emotional honesty, and clarity of purpose.

3. Schools aren’t anti-AI. They’re anti-fake.
Top programs are updating their policies to emphasize ethics. Many condone AI for brainstorming, but warn against using it to write essays or letters of recommendation.

4. Interviews and real-time assessments are gaining importance.
Expect more behavioral, values-based, and spontaneous prompts as schools look to assess consistency between your written and spoken narrative.

5. Use AI wisely: treat it like a project assistant, not a ghostwriter.
Smart uses include organizing deadlines, shortening essays, or improving clarity, not generating full drafts or making up content.

00:55 - The Beginning of AI in Applications

02:48 - The Role of AI in Application Strategy

05:29 - Common Uses of AI by Applicants

09:45 - Business School Response to AI

12:03 - Smart and Responsible AI Usage

12:54 - The Risks of AI in Applications

15:09 - The Importance of Authenticity

17:45 - Strategies for Authentic Writing

18:51 - Exercises for Developing Personal Narratives

20:50 - Real-Life Examples of Authenticity

22:53 - Future of Admissions in the Age of AI

24:31 - Final Thoughts

Thinking about business school? Don’t go it alone.

In this episode, we’re hitting the road as we explore GMAC Tours, the global events that bring top business schools and aspiring students together under one roof. Host Zach is joined by Maggie Cooley, Director of Events and Marketing for GMAC Tours, to unpack why these MBA & Masters Tour events are more than just information sessions. They’re networking goldmines, resume-boosting bootcamps, and overall application game-changers.

You’ll hear what really happens at a Tour event, how to make a lasting impression, and why attending one could help you discover your best-fit program (especially one you’ve never considered before).

Whether you’re years away from applying or finalizing your target school list, this episode will help you make the most of one of the most impactful tools on your business school journey.

Find a Tour near you: https://www.mba.com/connect-with-schools/gmac-tours/events-calendar

1. GMAC Tours are free, curated events designed for every stage of the b-school journey.
Whether you're exploring your options or ready to apply, there’s value for everyone—from keynotes and meetups to resume clinics and GMAT info sessions.

2. The biggest asset? Face time with admissions reps.
Attendees meet directly with decision-makers from top global business schools, building authentic relationships that can strengthen applications and inform school selection.

3. Thoughtful preparation goes a long way.
Doing research ahead of time, preparing smart questions, and showing genuine curiosity helps you stand out, both in scheduled meetups and casual booth chats.

4. Be open to discovering new schools.
80% of attendees consider a new program they hadn’t previously thought about. Don’t just target the usual suspects—use the event to explore your full range of options.

5. Your application can benefit directly.
From resume feedback to application tips and admissions insights, the information (and impression) you gain at a Tour event can translate into a stronger, more personalized application.

01:12 - What is a Tour Event?

03:25 - Who Should Attend?

05:24 - Overview of Activities

06:55 - About School Meet-Ups

10:04 - About Resume Review Clinics

11:20 - About B-School Talks

12:01 - About the GMAT Info Session

13:16 - Planning Your Schedule

14:52 - Benefits of Attending

16:57 - Using the Event to Strengthen Your Application

17:56 - Success Stories

21:07 - Tips for Attending

23:06 - Making a Great Impression at Networking Events

25:07 - Common Mistakes to Avoid

28:42 - Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Zach sits down with friend and colleague Andrew Walker, Director of Industry Communications at GMAC, to unpack the latest insights from the 2025 Prospective Students Survey.

They dive into what 5,000 prospective business school candidates around the world are thinking about today — from the growing demand for hands-on AI experiences to the rising importance of human skills, like grit and adaptability. You’ll hear why more candidates are prioritizing ROI over program rankings, how financial planning is evolving, and why in-person programs are making a surprising comeback.

Whether you’re actively applying, just starting to explore your options, or simply curious about what’s shaping the future of graduate management education, this conversation offers data-backed insights and practical takeaways you won’t want to miss.

Takeaways:

• 46% of business school candidates prioritize AI experiences in their curriculum.
• Employers value human skills like emotional intelligence and adaptability alongside technical skills.
• Cost remains a significant barrier for candidates considering business school.
• Only 29% of candidates prioritize program rankings first when researching schools.
• Candidates are increasingly looking for direct information from school websites, not AI.
• The MBA remains the most preferred degree, but interest in business master's programs is growing.
• Candidates prefer full-time in-person programs over hybrid or online formats post-pandemic.
• Financial aid is becoming a more significant part of funding education for candidates.
• Candidates are considering a multi-dimensional approach to their return on investment from business school.

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