Where Did the Time Go? Addressing MBA Résumé Gaps

Despite our best efforts to avoid family leave and protect our health, a sudden illness can derail anyone from academic and career goals. In addition, a close family member might need our help as they deal with a personal health issue. Tell the admissions committee what happened, but also let them know that the family leave is behind you now. If it was a personal illness, clearly state that you have either fully recovered or have received clearance from your medical team to return to school.

While this can be a difficult issue to address for both genders in the course of an MBA interview, it can be particularly difficult for men who might be apprehensive about potentially facing archaic prejudices regarding this issue in their MBA résumé. Fortunately, this fear is often unfounded as more couples relocate so that one spouse can take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Let the admissions committee see that you had a plan for this time of transition by pursuing self-studies, volunteer work or taking supplemental classes.

Like anything else in life, an academic program may not be all that you hoped for and wanted. Excruciating as the decision might be, sometimes it is best to cut your losses and move on to a program that is better suited to your interests and goals. Be straightforward about what happened and never blame other students, administrators or professors in your MBA résumé. If you were academically dismissed, tell the admissions committee how you have improved your study and time management skills such that you will be successful in their program.

Few people have good memories about the loss of a job. Although a level of acceptance can be reached over time to move on to other goals in life, there can still be a very high level of emotion attached to that situation. Use a calm and matter-of-fact tone in writing about what happened. Be the "better person" and don't blame others or make excuses. While this can be a difficult thing to do, it reflects a high level of maturity and ability to take responsibility for your life -- regardless of the actions of others.

Most of all, give some credit to and have some faith in your MBA program's admissions committee. These are sophisticated people who understand that sometimes family comes first, that family leave is not totally within our control, and that we must roll with the punches of life. Stay focused on your goals and reasons for pursuing your MBA education during your MBA interview to show the admissions committee how you will make a positive contribution to their program.