Having someone close to you who’s deciding to go to business school can be exciting. However, finding a gift to celebrate this amazing step forward can be almost as hard as the application process itself. If you’re looking for gifts for the business school applicant in your life, here are a few great gift ideas that they will deeply appreciate as they venture into this new territory of their life.
- Provide them with resources that make the application process easier for them.
Whether your friend, family member, or significant other is planning on pursuing their MBA at a school like Stanford, Wharton, or even Harvard, the truth is that business school can be difficult to get into, making it stressful to pursue these types of programs. Fortunately, you’re there to not only celebrate their decision but to provide them with gifts that can allow them to navigate this time more successfully.
One excellent gift suggestion is to get them in contact with someone who can guide them through MBA admissions at an institution like Harvard Business School. For example, reaching out to an organization like Gatehouse Admissions can connect them with an experienced admissions consultant that will help them understand the expectations that universities have for MBA applicants, provide them with the tools and materials they need to succeed in their application, and ensure they stand out from other applicants. With this type of support on their side, they no longer have to worry about whether or not they’re making the right moves in each stage of the application process.
Of course, while a gift that directly supports them during the process is great, you may want to look for other gifts that ease some of the stress in their day-to-day life. For example, buying them something minor like a meditation app subscription, essential oil diffuser, or other tools designed to promote a more grounded, relaxed lifestyle can greatly improve their mental health and energy levels. No matter what may help them thrive, consider these types of gifts that make applying easier for them.
- Offer them support with a gift that will keep on giving long after they’ve been accepted.
The thing about going back to school is that it puts a major strain on your personal and professional life. In addition to pursuing an MBA program (which often demands full-time attention), you also have to worry about making enough income to support yourself and staying on top of your needs. Put, it’s a lot of work for business school applicants and accepted individuals to juggle. If you’re really looking to support the one closest to you, you may want to consider pitching in to buy them a new car. Whether you’re looking to buy cars in Nigeria at an online auction for a bargain price (you can get great deals on used car options in the United States with the right resources or help your loved one afford that new BMW, these types of major gifts can be helpful for those undergoing the admissions process.
Do they already have a car? No problem! There are plenty of other gift ideas that you can turn to if you want to offer them support during this crucial time. For example, if they’re looking to rent a new home or apartment near competitive business schools, you could help them buy new furniture for their new place so that it’s one less thing they have to worry about. Whether you’re looking to help them land their favorite MBA programs so they can become one of the success stories or support them with things they’ll need beyond their education, these are just a few ideas to help you get started.
- Look for gifts that will provide them with comfort and strength during this time.
Even the most determined candidates can experience self-doubt and negativity, making them feel like they won’t get through the entire process and get to the finish line. If someone in your life is experiencing doubt, look for a gift that provides them with strength and hope. For example, if they find comfort in the Bible, looking for Christian gifts like gift Bible covers can be just what they need to hold on to and maintain their positive mindset. If your applicant is of another faith, switch up the gift ideas to give them something that holds equal value.
An MBA can offer professionals a major boost in the business world. But getting accepted into a program and going through the curriculum can be quite stressful and demanding. If you’re looking to both celebrate and support someone who’s planning on going for their MBA, use the gift guide above to dive into some excellent gift suggestions for the applicant in your life!