I'm what you might consider an "older" MBA applicant (I'm 31), but I'm starting to research MBA programs for fall 2016. I want to get into the best school I can, and I'm seriously considering Duke, UCLA, Darden, and Cornell at this point.

One thing that I am considering also is to do a certificate program before the MBA, just because it's been such a while since I did any kind of studies, and I'd like to (1) prime the pump for education, and (2) show the b-schools that I'm serious about education.

I'm looking at a certificate in social media marketing from Rutgers, which would start this fall. I'd like to switch into this field (from communications), and I think this would give me a bit more leverage in this sense.

Question is, is this worth it? It's an $$ investment, and while I'd be interested in doing it for myself, I don't think I'd actually go through with it if I didn't think it would be valuable for my MBA applications... Just a thought...

If you start this course in the fall, will you get a grade before you submit your application? Admissions officers like to see people with recent grades because it gives a better idea of applicant's ability to return to study. But, if you won't get a grade before you apply then iut's less useful. A less costly course with a summer semester might be better.

Well, I'd basically be waiting to submit for round 2's if I waited for the grade. I suppose it's not enough to show that I'm enrolled in the program. I'll look around for some other options that could start earlier.