As I have previously mentioned, our new MBA class is about to start. Their Orientation is next week, January 5-9. Classes begin on January 12. This class consists of 37 students. This newly redesigned retail focused MBA first began in January of 2007. That class had 30 students; they graduated in May, 2008 with an average starting salary (at graduation) of $75,452. The second class began in January of 2008. This class consists of 32 students and they will graduate in May of 2009. The class to start next week will be our third class in this new program. This new class has 37 students. I am thrilled that we have been able to steadily grow this exciting new program. Our goal is to grow the program slowly - not at the expense of quality. We have been very fortunate to have high quality applicants. I expect this trend to continue. I am thrilled to already have 9 applications for the group that will begin in January, 2010. It seems impossible to already be planning the MBA class of 2011, but that is the way of the recruiting cycle. It is just one big circle - continuously in process with never an end in sight. Here are summaries of the first three classes of the Walton MBA:
graduating class of 2008 - 30 students, average GMAT = 625, average work experience was a little over 3 years, and their average GPA was about a 3.3.
graduating class of 2009 - 32 students, average GMAT = 630, average work experience was a little over 2 years, and their average GPA was about a 3.3.
graduating class of 2010 - 37 students, average GMAT = 628, average work experience is 3 1/2 years, and their average GPA is 3.4.
graduating class of 2011 - yet to be determined. My goal is to admit at least 40 students to this class. If you are interested in being among this elite group, early application deadline is April 1 and final application deadline is September 15. You will receive the admissions committee's decision within one month of each application deadline.
Don't forget about our amazing graduate assistantship (GA) opportunities. These are awarded based on GMAT score and work experience. A full assistantship will waive tuition and provide a stipend of $2500 each semester. The partial assistantship waives out-of-state tution, provides the same stipend of $2500 each semeser, plus an additional scholarship of $2500. Many students are able to work off-campus. We have wonderful partnerships with many Fortune 500 companies located in Northwest Arkansas. These companies hire our MBA student who have been awarded a GA. Students on GA will work 15 hours a week.
In review, if you would like to apply to the MBA program to begin in January, 2010, early application deadline is April 1. Please submit application materials by that deadline for early consideration. You can apply online at gsb.uark.edu.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Monday, December 29, 2008
Upcoming Deadlines
This is a reminder that ALL PhD applications are due by January 15. Please do not wait until the last minute to submit application materials. The Departments are anxious for their files and it does take our office a few days to process new materials.
Don't forget that the reason for this deadline is that the University deadline for the DDF (Distinguished Doctoral Fellowship) is February 2. This award is worth $37,000 annually for four years.
Some Departments will accept late applications but that is only if they are unable to make admissions decisions with those files that were completed by the deadline. Most departments will admit based on those files received by January 15.
The application deadline for the Master of Arts in Economics and the Master of Information Systems is February 1 (since this is a Sunday, it will be February 2 this year). If you have any questions regarding the application process for any of our master's degree programs or PhD degree programs, please email gsb@walton.uark.edu.
Happy New Year.
Don't forget that the reason for this deadline is that the University deadline for the DDF (Distinguished Doctoral Fellowship) is February 2. This award is worth $37,000 annually for four years.
Some Departments will accept late applications but that is only if they are unable to make admissions decisions with those files that were completed by the deadline. Most departments will admit based on those files received by January 15.
The application deadline for the Master of Arts in Economics and the Master of Information Systems is February 1 (since this is a Sunday, it will be February 2 this year). If you have any questions regarding the application process for any of our master's degree programs or PhD degree programs, please email gsb@walton.uark.edu.
Happy New Year.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Merry Christmas Everyone
Ho Ho Ho. Santa will be coming to my house tonight. At least that is what my 4 year old son is thinking. Soon I will not be able to say, "You better be good. Santa is watching."
On Friday I took him to the Fayetteville square to enjoy the Christmas lights and to ride the ponies. This time of year is truly joyous in Fayetteville. The downtown square is lit with lights and children with their families are running around. The square is lit in November and the holiday season kicks off with a parade. My family has already made numerous trips through the square, both by car and foot. This event is called The Lights of the Ozarks.
My 11 year old even enjoys it. She is too big for the pony rides this year. This is a sad occasion for mom. She has had a pony ride (every year) during the Lights of the Ozarks. Well, my son still has a few years left to ride the ponies.
If you are not into pony rides, there is also the carriage. Who wouldn't enjoy a beautiful carriage ride during the Christmas season around the Historic Downtown Square?
These lights remain up through the New Year. Fayetteville is a wonderful town. This is just another example of its beauty.
On Friday I took him to the Fayetteville square to enjoy the Christmas lights and to ride the ponies. This time of year is truly joyous in Fayetteville. The downtown square is lit with lights and children with their families are running around. The square is lit in November and the holiday season kicks off with a parade. My family has already made numerous trips through the square, both by car and foot. This event is called The Lights of the Ozarks.
My 11 year old even enjoys it. She is too big for the pony rides this year. This is a sad occasion for mom. She has had a pony ride (every year) during the Lights of the Ozarks. Well, my son still has a few years left to ride the ponies.
If you are not into pony rides, there is also the carriage. Who wouldn't enjoy a beautiful carriage ride during the Christmas season around the Historic Downtown Square?
These lights remain up through the New Year. Fayetteville is a wonderful town. This is just another example of its beauty.
Friday, December 19, 2008
PhD Application Deadline is Quickly Approaching
Final application deadline for all PhD applications is January 15. Please keep in mind that there are two American Holidays between now and then: Christmas and New Year's. United States mail will not be delivered on either Holiday so please plan accordingly. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION MATERIALS.
As a final reminder, an application is not complete until we have received ALL of the following:
application
application fee
resume
official transcripts
letters of recommendation
personal statement
GMAT or GRE score
International students must also submit:
TOEFL
speaking portion of either ibT (26) or IELTS (7.0)
Supplemental Educational form
Financial form
All documents can be downloaded from the website at: gsb.uark.edu.
In order to be considered for the big bucks, the DDF which totals $37,000 annually, the Department must nominate you by the February 2 deadline. This is why the January 15 deadline is so important. The Departments needs time to evaluate their applications, decide who to offer admission to, and then complete nomination forms for DDF.
Time is definitely a factor. Some Departments will accept late applications but that is only if they were not able to fill their slots from those applications that were submitted by the deadline. Also, late applications are not eligible for the DDF. International students are not eligible for DDF but they are eligible for DAF which totals $27,000 annually. This deadline is more flexible.
As a final reminder, an application is not complete until we have received ALL of the following:
application
application fee
resume
official transcripts
letters of recommendation
personal statement
GMAT or GRE score
International students must also submit:
TOEFL
speaking portion of either ibT (26) or IELTS (7.0)
Supplemental Educational form
Financial form
All documents can be downloaded from the website at: gsb.uark.edu.
In order to be considered for the big bucks, the DDF which totals $37,000 annually, the Department must nominate you by the February 2 deadline. This is why the January 15 deadline is so important. The Departments needs time to evaluate their applications, decide who to offer admission to, and then complete nomination forms for DDF.
Time is definitely a factor. Some Departments will accept late applications but that is only if they were not able to fill their slots from those applications that were submitted by the deadline. Also, late applications are not eligible for the DDF. International students are not eligible for DDF but they are eligible for DAF which totals $27,000 annually. This deadline is more flexible.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
The University will be closed...
The University of Arkansas will be closed from Wednesday, December 24 through Friday, January 2. I am taking advantage of this opportunity to take a few extra days off for some much needed rest and recuperation before the spring semester gets underway. I will be out of the office starting tomorrow. I will be checking email and I will drop into the office a time or two. I am going to try to post to the blog during the break but it won't be with the same regularity that I post now. Be sure to check the blog during the Holiday season.
Important upcoming deadlines:
ALL PHD APPLICATIONS ARE DUE JANUARY 15!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Master of Arts in Economics applications are due February 1
Master of Information Systems (full-time) applications are due February 1.
When we return in January, we will go immediately into MBA Orientation. Simultaneously, we will be working frantically on PhD applications.
Walton College students, and those from around the world, enjoy your Holiday break.
Important upcoming deadlines:
ALL PHD APPLICATIONS ARE DUE JANUARY 15!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Master of Arts in Economics applications are due February 1
Master of Information Systems (full-time) applications are due February 1.
When we return in January, we will go immediately into MBA Orientation. Simultaneously, we will be working frantically on PhD applications.
Walton College students, and those from around the world, enjoy your Holiday break.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Walton MBA Class of 2010
Our new MBA class will begin in three weeks. If you are a member of this class, let me welcome you. As I mentioned in my previous post, we admitted a few VERY late applicants on Friday. The class now consists of 37 students. I am very excited about this group. Their average GMAT is 628, average GPA is 3.4, they average 3.5 years of work experience, and their average age is 26. Of the 37, 15 are female and 12 are International - representing India, China, and France. This group has a variety of undergraduate backgrounds from business to engineering to physics and many more. They have worked at companies such as Wal-Mart, JB Hunt, Tullius Taylor Sartain Sartain, Northwestern Mutual, KPMG, and others.
Next semester the Walton College will have about 160 MBA students. There are currently two classes of part-time students and the full-time class that will graduate in May. In the spring semester, we always have two full-time classes while in the fall, there is only one class. Spring is a very exciting time. The new class is just getting started while the other class is getting ready to graduate. This class can see the light at the end of the tunnel and there is an energy in the air.
I am looking forward to meeting our new class of Walton MBA students. Orientation is January 5-9. Immediately upon completing Orientation, I will start working on the next class, the Walton MBA class of 2011. This class will begin January 2010. Ah, no rest for the wicked.
Next semester the Walton College will have about 160 MBA students. There are currently two classes of part-time students and the full-time class that will graduate in May. In the spring semester, we always have two full-time classes while in the fall, there is only one class. Spring is a very exciting time. The new class is just getting started while the other class is getting ready to graduate. This class can see the light at the end of the tunnel and there is an energy in the air.
I am looking forward to meeting our new class of Walton MBA students. Orientation is January 5-9. Immediately upon completing Orientation, I will start working on the next class, the Walton MBA class of 2011. This class will begin January 2010. Ah, no rest for the wicked.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Finals, finals, finals
Final exams started here at the University of Arkansas yesterday, Thursday, December 11. Right now, the 4th floor of Walker Hall is teeming with MBA students. The 4th floor has 12 small group rooms and they are currently in hot demand. Just for fun I thought I would run upstairs (my office is on the 3rd floor of Walker Hall) and take some candid photos of the students hard at work. Keep in mind that these are taken on my little camera phone and our students are in study mode. They are not dressed up and they are a little sleep deprived and harried.
This is Matt hard at work. I am technologically challenged and I had to take the photo twice. He said, "really, Rebel?"
This is Spencer and he is in one of the most popular study rooms. It has a solid wall of windows. We call this one the fish bowl.
This is Dave Alderson, world-famous MBA blogger. You can read his blog by clicking on the link on the right.
Nathan and Justin are trying the "two is better than one" approach.
There are 32 students in this class and these are the lucky few I caught upstairs. Today we added a few more to the next class and I will write about that in my next post.
This is Matt hard at work. I am technologically challenged and I had to take the photo twice. He said, "really, Rebel?"
This is Spencer and he is in one of the most popular study rooms. It has a solid wall of windows. We call this one the fish bowl.
This is Dave Alderson, world-famous MBA blogger. You can read his blog by clicking on the link on the right.
Nathan and Justin are trying the "two is better than one" approach.There are 32 students in this class and these are the lucky few I caught upstairs. Today we added a few more to the next class and I will write about that in my next post.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Tis the "Party" Season
The Graduate School of Business just hosted its Holiday party this morning. We held the drop-in event from 11:00-2:00 for our current students as well as Walton College employees. This is a great opportunity for students to grab a bite to eat and a little caffeine while they are studying for finals. Faculty and staff are also mingling, enjoying the brief break from the piles of work on their desks.
Yes, it's that wonderful time of year again - not only are the holidays around the corner but finals are upon us. Finals began for the University today and will end on the 17th. Classes resume on January 12. For our new MBA class, they will begin with Orientation, January 5-9.
This week-long Orientation truly gets the 16-month, three-semester MBA program started off on the right foot. We do get all of the administrative "stuff" done - payroll, registration, ID, etc. However, it's not all paperwork and business, we also have a lot of fun. There is an overnight retreat as well. Fun activities are scheduled to encourage teamwork and to assist the class in getting to know each other. One of the most popular days is our retail immersion day. On this day, different retail locations are visited as is a Wal-Mart Distribution Center. We cap off the week with a little friendly competition. This is business after all.
So, yes - this is a very busy time of year - for us and for our students (both current and the ones getting ready to get started next month).
Yes, it's that wonderful time of year again - not only are the holidays around the corner but finals are upon us. Finals began for the University today and will end on the 17th. Classes resume on January 12. For our new MBA class, they will begin with Orientation, January 5-9.
This week-long Orientation truly gets the 16-month, three-semester MBA program started off on the right foot. We do get all of the administrative "stuff" done - payroll, registration, ID, etc. However, it's not all paperwork and business, we also have a lot of fun. There is an overnight retreat as well. Fun activities are scheduled to encourage teamwork and to assist the class in getting to know each other. One of the most popular days is our retail immersion day. On this day, different retail locations are visited as is a Wal-Mart Distribution Center. We cap off the week with a little friendly competition. This is business after all.
So, yes - this is a very busy time of year - for us and for our students (both current and the ones getting ready to get started next month).
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Recap of MBA Accomplishments in 2008
Our newly redesigned retail-focused MBA first began in January of 2007. To be such a young program, we have made great strides. I want to recap the accomplishments of 2008. I am sure I will forget something. If I do, hopefully someone will tell me and I will just post an addendum later.
Beginning in the spring, Walton graduate students particip-ated in the Donald W. Reynolds Small Business Plan Competition in Little Rock, AR. Teams from the Walton College swept the competition, placing 1st ($20,000), 2nd ($10,000), and 3rd ($5,000). These teams consisted of MBA students (full and part-time) as well as students from the Master of Accountancy program. These teams went on to participate in a tri-state (Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Nevada) competition in Las Vegas. The team that placed second here in Arkansas won the competition in Vegas (another $25,000). Their photo is shown above.
Also in the spring, our MBA students concentrating in Finance took part in the Shollmier Fund Portfolio Competition. Walton MBA students placed first, competing against 2,300 students from 257 schools in 69 countries. Cory Scott, a Walton MBA student, was even interviewed on CNBC about the groups success.
This fall semester, MBA students placed third in the FedEx Freight Inter-national Graduate Logistics Case Compe-tition. Twelve teams from around the world competed in Fayetteville in November. Their photo is attached.
As a result of all of this wonderful success, the Walton MBA was ranked 10th in the Most Competitive Student Category by Princeton Review. I say, "you haven't seen anything yet!"
Beginning in the spring, Walton graduate students particip-ated in the Donald W. Reynolds Small Business Plan Competition in Little Rock, AR. Teams from the Walton College swept the competition, placing 1st ($20,000), 2nd ($10,000), and 3rd ($5,000). These teams consisted of MBA students (full and part-time) as well as students from the Master of Accountancy program. These teams went on to participate in a tri-state (Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Nevada) competition in Las Vegas. The team that placed second here in Arkansas won the competition in Vegas (another $25,000). Their photo is shown above.Also in the spring, our MBA students concentrating in Finance took part in the Shollmier Fund Portfolio Competition. Walton MBA students placed first, competing against 2,300 students from 257 schools in 69 countries. Cory Scott, a Walton MBA student, was even interviewed on CNBC about the groups success.
This fall semester, MBA students placed third in the FedEx Freight Inter-national Graduate Logistics Case Compe-tition. Twelve teams from around the world competed in Fayetteville in November. Their photo is attached.
As a result of all of this wonderful success, the Walton MBA was ranked 10th in the Most Competitive Student Category by Princeton Review. I say, "you haven't seen anything yet!"
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Finals are approaching
This time of year is always frenzied. Students feel a mixture of relief and anxiety. On the one hand, the semester is nearly over and they are looking forward to the Holiday break with much enthusiasm. On the other hand, finals must be survived in order to truly enjoy and appreciate that Holiday break. During this time, students are spending many, many hours in Walker Hall.
The Graduate School of Business (GSB) is housed in the new, state-of-the-art Willard J. Walker Hall. We moved in to Walker Hall in July of 2007. The 4th floor is reserved for GSB students only. We have 12 small group rooms that can only be accessed (with ID card) by current GSB students. These rooms are VERY popular right now. Students are spending a great deal of time working in these rooms - preparing for final exams and finishing group projects. I have attached a picture of one of the small group rooms. They are all equipped with 42" plasmas screens and marker boards.
I have also included a picture of the financial trading center. As Dave's blog details, MBA students in the Finance track spend many hours in this real-world trading center. If students are not in the trading center or in a group room, they are more than likely in class.
We have two classrooms on the 4th floor. All MBA classes are held in these classrooms - see picture - as well as many other program classes.
Whereas this time of year is a bit chaotic, we have done what we can to assist our students at this time by providing them with the absolute best facilities and technology.
The Graduate School of Business (GSB) is housed in the new, state-of-the-art Willard J. Walker Hall. We moved in to Walker Hall in July of 2007. The 4th floor is reserved for GSB students only. We have 12 small group rooms that can only be accessed (with ID card) by current GSB students. These rooms are VERY popular right now. Students are spending a great deal of time working in these rooms - preparing for final exams and finishing group projects. I have attached a picture of one of the small group rooms. They are all equipped with 42" plasmas screens and marker boards.
I have also included a picture of the financial trading center. As Dave's blog details, MBA students in the Finance track spend many hours in this real-world trading center. If students are not in the trading center or in a group room, they are more than likely in class.
We have two classrooms on the 4th floor. All MBA classes are held in these classrooms - see picture - as well as many other program classes.Whereas this time of year is a bit chaotic, we have done what we can to assist our students at this time by providing them with the absolute best facilities and technology.
Monday, December 8, 2008
The Walton MBA - Part-time option
Let's talk about our part-time MBA option. We call this program our Managerial MBA. This program starts each August and students take six hours a semester for six semesters by attending class in Fayetteville one Saturday each month. We admit approximately 60-65 students each year. Companies represented by current students are: Wal-Mart, Tyson, P&G, JB Hunt, ConAgra, Colgate-Palmolive, Nestle-Purina, Dr. Pepper Snapple, ABF Freight, Welch's, Kraft, and many more. This program truly has outstanding students from Northwest Arkansas and surrounding areas.
Since this program only meets one Saturday each month, students can attend Walton's Managerial MBA from all over the nation. Application requirements are the same as for the full-time program and can be found at gsb.uark.edu. Application deadline is April 1; however, we do accept applications throughout the summer.
This program is "one price fits all". In-state, out-of-state, or international students pay the same tuition. The current cost of the program is $26,500 for the two years. This covers all tuition, fees, books, parking, and food on class days.
Many employers offer tuition assistance. If you are interested in this program, consult with your HR department to learn about your employer's policy.
This program is competitive and selective. We admit approximately 50% of our applicants. The admissions committee basis admissions decision on the applicants entire package with greater emphasis being placed on GMAT score and work history.
It is possible to visit on a class day, have lunch with current students, and observe a class. If this is of interest, let me know.
Since this program only meets one Saturday each month, students can attend Walton's Managerial MBA from all over the nation. Application requirements are the same as for the full-time program and can be found at gsb.uark.edu. Application deadline is April 1; however, we do accept applications throughout the summer.
This program is "one price fits all". In-state, out-of-state, or international students pay the same tuition. The current cost of the program is $26,500 for the two years. This covers all tuition, fees, books, parking, and food on class days.
Many employers offer tuition assistance. If you are interested in this program, consult with your HR department to learn about your employer's policy.
This program is competitive and selective. We admit approximately 50% of our applicants. The admissions committee basis admissions decision on the applicants entire package with greater emphasis being placed on GMAT score and work history.
It is possible to visit on a class day, have lunch with current students, and observe a class. If this is of interest, let me know.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
PhD Application Deadline is Around the Corner
For those of you who are planning on applying to one of Walton College's PhD programs, that deadline is quickly approaching. All materials should be submitted by January 15. Your application is not considered to be complete until the following items have been received:
Application
Application fee
Current resume
Three letters of recommendation
Personal statement of objectives
GMAT/GRE score
Official transcripts from all previously attended universities
International applicants must also submit:
Educational form
Financial form
TOEFL - we must have a spoken English test score. This can be fulfilled by either taking the TOEFL or the IELTS.
The funding opportunities are amazing. With a GMAT of 650 and a master's GPA of 3.75, domestic applicants are eligible for the Distinguished Doctoral Fellowship (DDF). This entitles you to $37,000 annually for four years.
With a GMAT of 600 and a master's GPA of 3.5, you are eligible for the Doctoral Academy Fellowship (DAF). This will provide $27,000 annually for four years. International applicants are eligible for this fellowship.
The Graduate School at the University of Arkansas selects all recipients of the DDF and DAF. The Walton College PhD application deadline is set so that our applicants will be eligible for these funding opportunities.
BE SURE TO SUBMIT ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS BY JANUARY 15, 2009. The sooner the better.
Application
Application fee
Current resume
Three letters of recommendation
Personal statement of objectives
GMAT/GRE score
Official transcripts from all previously attended universities
International applicants must also submit:
Educational form
Financial form
TOEFL - we must have a spoken English test score. This can be fulfilled by either taking the TOEFL or the IELTS.
The funding opportunities are amazing. With a GMAT of 650 and a master's GPA of 3.75, domestic applicants are eligible for the Distinguished Doctoral Fellowship (DDF). This entitles you to $37,000 annually for four years.
With a GMAT of 600 and a master's GPA of 3.5, you are eligible for the Doctoral Academy Fellowship (DAF). This will provide $27,000 annually for four years. International applicants are eligible for this fellowship.
The Graduate School at the University of Arkansas selects all recipients of the DDF and DAF. The Walton College PhD application deadline is set so that our applicants will be eligible for these funding opportunities.
BE SURE TO SUBMIT ALL APPLICATION MATERIALS BY JANUARY 15, 2009. The sooner the better.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Update on MBA Admissions
Right now (and I say that knowing it could change in a minute) we have 31 admits for January 2009. Of this 31, 11 are female and 12 are International. Average GMAT = 631, average GPA = 3.4, and average work experience = 3.8 years.
There are three applications nearly complete and I am still receiving calls and emails daily from students inquiring about beginning the MBA in the spring. With the current economy, MBA applications should rise. At this point, for January, funding is extremely limited. We have awarded all of our full assistantships (GA). We do have some flexibility with the partial assistantships. These GAs waive out-of-state tuition, provide a stipend of $2500 each semester, plus a scholarship of $2500. Students who receive this GA will pay in-state tuition but will receive $10,000 over three semesters. In exchange you work 15 hours a week.
We will continue to accept completed application packets through next Friday, December 12. The University is closed December 24 through January 2. MBA Orientation is January 5-9. This is a mandatory Orientation. We must have the MBA class completely finalized before we leave for the Holidays.
Please contact me with questions.
There are three applications nearly complete and I am still receiving calls and emails daily from students inquiring about beginning the MBA in the spring. With the current economy, MBA applications should rise. At this point, for January, funding is extremely limited. We have awarded all of our full assistantships (GA). We do have some flexibility with the partial assistantships. These GAs waive out-of-state tuition, provide a stipend of $2500 each semester, plus a scholarship of $2500. Students who receive this GA will pay in-state tuition but will receive $10,000 over three semesters. In exchange you work 15 hours a week.
We will continue to accept completed application packets through next Friday, December 12. The University is closed December 24 through January 2. MBA Orientation is January 5-9. This is a mandatory Orientation. We must have the MBA class completely finalized before we leave for the Holidays.
Please contact me with questions.
Monday, December 1, 2008
Back from the Holidays - RFID & ITRI
I do apologize. I took advantage of the Thanksgiving break and I actually took the whole week off. Thus, no blogging for me for a week. I am back now and I have just gotten caught up with my emails. Now it is time to spend a little time blogging. I want to provide more information about some opportunities that we have here at the Walton College.
RFID Research Center
The Walton College has the only accredited academic RFID lab in the world.
The mission of the RFID Research Center is to create and extend knowledge in the use of RFID (radio frequency identification) and its impact on business and society. This is an internationally recognized leader in RFID application research.
The RFID Research Center is a student-staffed testing and research center. As a technical facility, the lab is used by students and faculty from various disciplines. Research and information from the students in this facility are highly respected in the wireless sensor community and have been published in leading journals and presented at numerous events. The center also serves as an educational resource for companies or individuals searching for value in wireless technology.
The RFID lab covers nearly 10,000 square feet and includes two dock doors, conveyor system, pallet and backroom storage racks, backroom transition doors, baler/compactor system, and a simulated store. The RFID laboratory emphasizes replication of the physical environment and equipment used in supply chains, asset management, and other RFID applications. Real-world conditions are simulated as closely as possible.
Information Technology Research Institute (ITRI)
A nationally competitive research center serving Arkansas and the world.
The ITRI’s mission is to advance the state of research and practice in the development and use of information technology for enhancing the performance of individuals and organizations; provide a forum for multi-disciplinary work on issues related to information technology; promote student interest in the study of information technologies; and facilitate the exchange of information between the academic and business communities.
The ITRI’s goals are to:
• Create rigorous and relevant IT research
• Encourage and promote IT research
• Understand, explore, and encourage multi-disciplinary perspectives toward IT and IT research
• Provide a high quality IT research atmosphere that is of recognizable national and international standard
• Increase interest in the study of IT
• Attract students to the field of IT
• Cooperate with industry to address IT issues through research and development
• Keep constituents informed of leading edge research through dissemination of information via various outlets such as seminars, working paper, etc.
• Facilitate interactions between and within academia and industry
RFID Research Center
The Walton College has the only accredited academic RFID lab in the world.
The mission of the RFID Research Center is to create and extend knowledge in the use of RFID (radio frequency identification) and its impact on business and society. This is an internationally recognized leader in RFID application research.
The RFID Research Center is a student-staffed testing and research center. As a technical facility, the lab is used by students and faculty from various disciplines. Research and information from the students in this facility are highly respected in the wireless sensor community and have been published in leading journals and presented at numerous events. The center also serves as an educational resource for companies or individuals searching for value in wireless technology.
The RFID lab covers nearly 10,000 square feet and includes two dock doors, conveyor system, pallet and backroom storage racks, backroom transition doors, baler/compactor system, and a simulated store. The RFID laboratory emphasizes replication of the physical environment and equipment used in supply chains, asset management, and other RFID applications. Real-world conditions are simulated as closely as possible.
Information Technology Research Institute (ITRI)
A nationally competitive research center serving Arkansas and the world.
The ITRI’s mission is to advance the state of research and practice in the development and use of information technology for enhancing the performance of individuals and organizations; provide a forum for multi-disciplinary work on issues related to information technology; promote student interest in the study of information technologies; and facilitate the exchange of information between the academic and business communities.
The ITRI’s goals are to:
• Create rigorous and relevant IT research
• Encourage and promote IT research
• Understand, explore, and encourage multi-disciplinary perspectives toward IT and IT research
• Provide a high quality IT research atmosphere that is of recognizable national and international standard
• Increase interest in the study of IT
• Attract students to the field of IT
• Cooperate with industry to address IT issues through research and development
• Keep constituents informed of leading edge research through dissemination of information via various outlets such as seminars, working paper, etc.
• Facilitate interactions between and within academia and industry
Friday, November 21, 2008
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is another concentration Walton College MIS students are able to choose.
Nearly all Fortune 500 companies use some form of ERP software and most use SAP. As a member of the SAP University Alliance, the Walton College provides students with hands-on training in the ERP software. As a member of the SAP University Alliance, the Walton College provides students with hands-on training in the ERP software. Local, national, and multi-national companies are hiring graduates with experience and exposure to ERP software packages such as SAP as fast as we can produce them. There is also an ERP Certification offered by Walton College.
Nearly all Fortune 500 companies use some form of ERP software and most use SAP. As a member of the SAP University Alliance, the Walton College provides students with hands-on training in the ERP software. As a member of the SAP University Alliance, the Walton College provides students with hands-on training in the ERP software. Local, national, and multi-national companies are hiring graduates with experience and exposure to ERP software packages such as SAP as fast as we can produce them. There is also an ERP Certification offered by Walton College.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
More info on the MIS programs
Enterprise systems is an area of concentration students are able to choose in either the part-time or the full-time MIS program.
Enterprise systems are large-scale information technology systems used today in the world’s largest major corporations. While most universities include only PC and Unix-based platforms in their programs, the Walton College is the only business school in the world that uses the following mix of large-scale Enterprise Systems in class:
• IMB zSeries Mainframe Server
• NCR Teradata Database Server
• SAP Enterprise Resource Planning
• Microsoft SQL Server and Business Intelligence Studio
• Large-scale, real-world data sets from Sam’s Club, Tyson Foods, Dillard’s, and Wal-Mart.
The Walton College is able to give their MIS students what no other University in the world can.
Enterprise systems are large-scale information technology systems used today in the world’s largest major corporations. While most universities include only PC and Unix-based platforms in their programs, the Walton College is the only business school in the world that uses the following mix of large-scale Enterprise Systems in class:
• IMB zSeries Mainframe Server
• NCR Teradata Database Server
• SAP Enterprise Resource Planning
• Microsoft SQL Server and Business Intelligence Studio
• Large-scale, real-world data sets from Sam’s Club, Tyson Foods, Dillard’s, and Wal-Mart.
The Walton College is able to give their MIS students what no other University in the world can.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Walton MBA Students Strike Again!
We may be small but we are mighty. The FedEx Freight International Graduate Logistics Case Competition was held Nov 12 – 15 in the Holiday Inn- Northwest Arkansas. 12 teams participated: Brigham Young University, University of Arkansas, University of Maryland, University of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Michigan State University, The Ohio State University, Pennsylvania State University, Iowa State University, Texas Christian University, Darmstadt University of Technology of Darmstadt, Germany, and Chalmers University of Technology of Gothenburg, Sweden.
Top three finishers:
1st place - Brigham Young University
2nd place - Darmstadt University of Technology
3rd place - Walton MBA , team members: Nahn Nguyen, Jyo Venkatachala, Helen Gunsaulis, Michael Rateliff, and Josh Richardson
Special thanks to our faculty sponsor, Dr. Chris Hofer.
Top three finishers:
1st place - Brigham Young University
2nd place - Darmstadt University of Technology
3rd place - Walton MBA , team members: Nahn Nguyen, Jyo Venkatachala, Helen Gunsaulis, Michael Rateliff, and Josh Richardson
Special thanks to our faculty sponsor, Dr. Chris Hofer.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Master of Arts in Economics and Master of Information Systems - Application deadline - February 1
Let's talk about two programs that have deadlines that are quickly approaching.
The Master of Arts in Economics is a 30-hour program that begins in August. The pre-requisites for this program include: Cal 1, Cal 2, Linear Algebra, and Statistics. This program is small and all students do receive funding. The admissions committee looks for a GRE score of at least 1200 (1300 to be most competitive) and an adequate quantitative background. For more information, visit http://gsb.uark.edu/ECON/default.asp.
The Master of Information Systems is also a 30-hour program that begins in August. This program admits approximately 15-20 students each year and the admissions committee looks for a GMAT score of 600. These students also receive funding. To learn more about this program, visit http://gsb.uark.edu/ISYS/default.asp.
Application deadline for both of these master's degree programs is February 1. To see our admissions requirements, visit http://gsb.uark.edu/admission.asp. You can apply online at http://gsb.uark.edu/application.asp.
If you are interested in either of these programs, you should be working on the application process now.
The Master of Arts in Economics is a 30-hour program that begins in August. The pre-requisites for this program include: Cal 1, Cal 2, Linear Algebra, and Statistics. This program is small and all students do receive funding. The admissions committee looks for a GRE score of at least 1200 (1300 to be most competitive) and an adequate quantitative background. For more information, visit http://gsb.uark.edu/ECON/default.asp.
The Master of Information Systems is also a 30-hour program that begins in August. This program admits approximately 15-20 students each year and the admissions committee looks for a GMAT score of 600. These students also receive funding. To learn more about this program, visit http://gsb.uark.edu/ISYS/default.asp.
Application deadline for both of these master's degree programs is February 1. To see our admissions requirements, visit http://gsb.uark.edu/admission.asp. You can apply online at http://gsb.uark.edu/application.asp.
If you are interested in either of these programs, you should be working on the application process now.
Monday, November 10, 2008
The holidays are quickly bearing down upon us
I cannot believe that Thanksgiving is only a little over two weeks away. Where has the semester gone? The University of Arkansas is closed November 26-28 for Thanksgiving. As soon as students come back from this brief respite, finals will be underway. Finals are December 11-17. The University is closed for winter break December 24-January 2. We will be back in the office on January 5.
MBA Orientation is January 5-9 and then spring classes begin on January 12. This week long Orientation is mandatory for all incoming MBA students. There are many events planned during this week. Not only do we set the academic tone for the upcoming three semesters, but this is your chance to get to know your fellow classmates. You will be seeing a lot of each other during the program, it is important to hit the ground running. This Orientation is the starting gun.
February 1 is the application deadline for two of our master's degree programs: Master of Arts in Economics and Master of Information Systems. I will go into these two programs in more detail in my next post.
MBA Orientation is January 5-9 and then spring classes begin on January 12. This week long Orientation is mandatory for all incoming MBA students. There are many events planned during this week. Not only do we set the academic tone for the upcoming three semesters, but this is your chance to get to know your fellow classmates. You will be seeing a lot of each other during the program, it is important to hit the ground running. This Orientation is the starting gun.
February 1 is the application deadline for two of our master's degree programs: Master of Arts in Economics and Master of Information Systems. I will go into these two programs in more detail in my next post.
Friday, November 7, 2008
End of the road
My travel days are finally over - until February when it starts all over again. I took my last trip this week. On Wednesday I went to Conway, AR and attended a Career Fair at UCA. I stayed in Conway that evening, and even met a prospective MMBA student that afternoon. On Thursday I was at Hendrix, also in Conway. I headed back home yesterday afternoon. I got home just after my daughter's bus dropped her off. She informed me that the last high school football game of the season was that night (Thursday). So, I made plans to take her, she's 11, and her little brother, aged 4, to the football game. Tonight, my daughter, her name is Zoey, has a dance. She is a 6th grader. There is never a dull moment around my house.
Now that I am finished traveling, I will be in the office on a much more consistent manner through the end of the semester. This means I will be able to get caught up on some projects that I have been neglecting. I can't believe it is November already.
Don't forget - you can still apply for the MBA program to begin in January!
Now that I am finished traveling, I will be in the office on a much more consistent manner through the end of the semester. This means I will be able to get caught up on some projects that I have been neglecting. I can't believe it is November already.
Don't forget - you can still apply for the MBA program to begin in January!
Monday, November 3, 2008
Walton MBA - The admissions committee
Let's talk about the admissions process. I think it is important for you to understand how the admissions committee make its decisions. We are a competitive and selective program. The Graduate School of Business does only admit a percentage of the applications received. The percentage does vary by program and by year.
For the MBA, the Walton College will offer admission to between 30 and 50% of the applicants. The applicant pool does change each year. The admissions committee places greatest emphasis on the following criteria (in order of importance): GMAT/GRE, work experience, and GPA. Following these three are essays and letters of recommendation.
It is very difficult, but not impossible, to begin The Walton MBA without work experience. The committee feels strongly that the program is of more benefit to those who have real world work experience. Students with work experience bring more to the program and also gain more from the program. The average test score and the average number of years of work experience does change each year. For the class that is beginning in January, currently the average number of years of work experience is nearly 4 and the average GMAT is 627. We are still accepting applications so this will change between now and January.
IT IS NOT TO LATE TO BEGIN THE WALTON MBA IN JANUARY. Please email me immediately if you wish to start our MBA in January 2009.
For the MBA, the Walton College will offer admission to between 30 and 50% of the applicants. The applicant pool does change each year. The admissions committee places greatest emphasis on the following criteria (in order of importance): GMAT/GRE, work experience, and GPA. Following these three are essays and letters of recommendation.
It is very difficult, but not impossible, to begin The Walton MBA without work experience. The committee feels strongly that the program is of more benefit to those who have real world work experience. Students with work experience bring more to the program and also gain more from the program. The average test score and the average number of years of work experience does change each year. For the class that is beginning in January, currently the average number of years of work experience is nearly 4 and the average GMAT is 627. We are still accepting applications so this will change between now and January.
IT IS NOT TO LATE TO BEGIN THE WALTON MBA IN JANUARY. Please email me immediately if you wish to start our MBA in January 2009.
Friday, October 31, 2008
It is not too late to apply for MBA to begin in January 2009
We are still accepting applications for the Walton MBA program to begin in January 2009. We will accept late applications through the end of November. Classes will begin January 12 and Orientation is January 5-9 and is MANDATORY. Application materials must be complete before an applicant can be considered. Complete packets include:
application
application fee
official transcripts
resume
essays (2)
letters of recommendation (3)
GMAT or GRE test score
If you are interested in beginning the MBA in January, you do still have time to apply. Please contact me immediately to indicate your interest. Limited funding is still available. The graduate assistantships that are available at this time will waive out-of-state tuition, provide a stipend of $2500 each semester, plus an additional scholarship of $2500. These opportunities are limited so do not hesitate - apply today.
application
application fee
official transcripts
resume
essays (2)
letters of recommendation (3)
GMAT or GRE test score
If you are interested in beginning the MBA in January, you do still have time to apply. Please contact me immediately to indicate your interest. Limited funding is still available. The graduate assistantships that are available at this time will waive out-of-state tuition, provide a stipend of $2500 each semester, plus an additional scholarship of $2500. These opportunities are limited so do not hesitate - apply today.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Online Application is up and running
For quite some time, our online application did not work effectively. We have implemented a new online application and it is up and running. To access the new online application, go to: http://gsb.uark.edu/application.asp. I have had a few questions pertaining to application requirements. To see these, go to: http://gsb.uark.edu/admission.asp. The application process is the same for master's and PhD with one exception. For PhD applicants, two essays are not required. Instead, you need to write a Personal Statement of Objectives.
If you would like to email your essays/statement of objectives and resumes, send them to rcsmith@walton.uark.edu. To summarize, for master's programs a completed application packet will include:
application form
application fee ($40 for domestic students and $50 for international students)
resume
transcripts
essays (2)
letters of recommendation (3)
GMAT/GRE
For PhD applicants, you must submit:
application form
application fee (same as above)
resume
transcripts
personal statement of objectives
letters of recommendation (3)
GMAT/GRE
All international applicants must also submit:
financial form
educational form
TOEFL
FORMS CAN BE DOWNLOADED FROM HERE: http://gsb.uark.edu/forms/default.asp.
New instructions have been recently posted and they can be found on the above site.
If you would like to email your essays/statement of objectives and resumes, send them to rcsmith@walton.uark.edu. To summarize, for master's programs a completed application packet will include:
application form
application fee ($40 for domestic students and $50 for international students)
resume
transcripts
essays (2)
letters of recommendation (3)
GMAT/GRE
For PhD applicants, you must submit:
application form
application fee (same as above)
resume
transcripts
personal statement of objectives
letters of recommendation (3)
GMAT/GRE
All international applicants must also submit:
financial form
educational form
TOEFL
FORMS CAN BE DOWNLOADED FROM HERE: http://gsb.uark.edu/forms/default.asp.
New instructions have been recently posted and they can be found on the above site.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Walton PhD Funding
I have had some questions regarding the funding for our PhD students so I thought I had better clarify. All tuition is waived for Walton PhD students and a graduate assistantship (GA) is awarded of $17,000. In exchange, students work 20 hours a week teaching and conducting research.
To be eligible for the Distinguished Doctoral Fellowship (DDF), and additional $20,000, applicants must have a GMAT of at least 650 and a master's GPA of 3.75. The departments select their admits, they will then nominate them for the DDF. The University's Graduate School selects the DDF recipients. Any student eligible for the DDF who is denied this fellowship will automatically receive the DAF.
To be eligible for the Doctoral Academy Fellowship (DAF), students need a minimum GMAT of 600 and a master's GPA of 3.5. This award is an additional $10,000. The process is the same as for DDF. The acedemic department makes nominations and the selections are made by the University's Graduate School.
This funding is quite generous. I encourage all those interested to contact me.
PhD application deadline is January 15.
To be eligible for the Distinguished Doctoral Fellowship (DDF), and additional $20,000, applicants must have a GMAT of at least 650 and a master's GPA of 3.75. The departments select their admits, they will then nominate them for the DDF. The University's Graduate School selects the DDF recipients. Any student eligible for the DDF who is denied this fellowship will automatically receive the DAF.
To be eligible for the Doctoral Academy Fellowship (DAF), students need a minimum GMAT of 600 and a master's GPA of 3.5. This award is an additional $10,000. The process is the same as for DDF. The acedemic department makes nominations and the selections are made by the University's Graduate School.
This funding is quite generous. I encourage all those interested to contact me.
PhD application deadline is January 15.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Walton College PhD Programs
There is never a dull moment in the Graduate School of Business. With seven master's degree programs and six PhD programs, there is always a deadline approaching. The next deadline is for our PhD programs. This deadline is January 15. We have PhD programs in: ACCOUNTING, ECONOMICS, FINANCE, INFORMATION SYSTEMS, MANAGEMENT, and MARKETING. For an application to be complete, we need:
application form
application fee ($40 for domestic students and $50 for international students)
resume
all academic transcripts
letters of recommendation (3)
statement of purpose
GMAT/GRE (Economics requires GRE and Management will accept either test)
Each academic department reviews its own applications. Some departments do like to get started before the deadline. Applicants to the Walton College PhD programs should submit all materials as early as possible. Once the departments have reviewed their applications, they decide whom to bring to campus for an interview. Once the interview is completed, the department makes their admissions decisions.
All PhD students are fully funded. Tuition is waived and a stipend is also awarded in the amount of $17,000; $27,000; or $37,000. The stipend amount depends on your test score.
Each of our programs is highly competitive and selective. They take a minimum of four years, full-time to complete. Our PhD students receive a great deal of individual contact with our faculty. They leave here well versed in research and teaching. Be sure to check these programs out on our website.
application form
application fee ($40 for domestic students and $50 for international students)
resume
all academic transcripts
letters of recommendation (3)
statement of purpose
GMAT/GRE (Economics requires GRE and Management will accept either test)
Each academic department reviews its own applications. Some departments do like to get started before the deadline. Applicants to the Walton College PhD programs should submit all materials as early as possible. Once the departments have reviewed their applications, they decide whom to bring to campus for an interview. Once the interview is completed, the department makes their admissions decisions.
All PhD students are fully funded. Tuition is waived and a stipend is also awarded in the amount of $17,000; $27,000; or $37,000. The stipend amount depends on your test score.
Each of our programs is highly competitive and selective. They take a minimum of four years, full-time to complete. Our PhD students receive a great deal of individual contact with our faculty. They leave here well versed in research and teaching. Be sure to check these programs out on our website.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Princeton Review ranks Walton MBA students #10 among "Most Competitive Students"
Hooray for us. Princeton Review has ranked Walton MBA students #10 on their "Most Competitive Students" list. We are in excellent company.
1. Wharton
2. Vanderbilt
3. UT-Austin
4. BYU
5. Texas Southern
6. Rutgers
7. Clemson
8. SMU
9. Howard University
10. WALTON
To learn more about Princeton Review's 296 Best Business Schools, visit their website: http://www.princetonreview.com/business-school-rankings.aspx.
1. Wharton
2. Vanderbilt
3. UT-Austin
4. BYU
5. Texas Southern
6. Rutgers
7. Clemson
8. SMU
9. Howard University
10. WALTON
To learn more about Princeton Review's 296 Best Business Schools, visit their website: http://www.princetonreview.com/business-school-rankings.aspx.
Monday, October 6, 2008
And another week begins
It is Monday once again. Tomorrow I am going to Philander Smith in Little Rock and then on Tuesday, I will be in Joplin, Missouri at Missouri Southern State University. Five campus visits down and eight more to go. For me, September and October are very busy months. I made it through September and I am well into October. As November approaches, the Walton College's Graduate School of Business slows back down to a normal pace. This lasts for a few weeks and then it is time for MBA Orientation in January. Once the spring semester begins, the cycle starts all over again.
I have reached that point in my life where I ask myself often, "where did the time go?" It feels as though entire semesters are going by in the blink of an eye. I remember feeling that way as a student. There was always so much to do within the time span of a semester. Now that I am in the world of graduate school recruiting, it feels as though I am back there again. For students, mid-terms are in October and Thanksgiving break is looked forward to with great longing. Once Thanksgiving is over, Christmas break is right around the corner. I find myself falling back into this way of thinking. I also have children in school and this is their schedule too. Well, Thanksgiving break is just a few weeks away and there is so much to do between now and then that it'll be here before I know it (I hope).
I have reached that point in my life where I ask myself often, "where did the time go?" It feels as though entire semesters are going by in the blink of an eye. I remember feeling that way as a student. There was always so much to do within the time span of a semester. Now that I am in the world of graduate school recruiting, it feels as though I am back there again. For students, mid-terms are in October and Thanksgiving break is looked forward to with great longing. Once Thanksgiving is over, Christmas break is right around the corner. I find myself falling back into this way of thinking. I also have children in school and this is their schedule too. Well, Thanksgiving break is just a few weeks away and there is so much to do between now and then that it'll be here before I know it (I hope).
Friday, October 3, 2008
MBA Admissions
The MBA admissions committee met this Tuesday. The class to begin in January now has 25 admits. Their average GMAT is 632, average GPA is 3.4, and the average work experience is 4.3 years. We will continue to accept applications through the end of November. We hope to admit 5-10 more students before classes begin in January. Orientation will be January 5-9 and classes begin January 12.
It is hard to believe that it is already October. Recruiting is in full swing. I am currently recruiting for fall 2009 as well as spring 2010 (MBA). The cycles flow from one right into the other. Just when admissions have been decided, recruiting begins again for the next year. This is comforting for me.
The next application deadline is for PhDs. This is January 15. I will talk more about them next post.
It is hard to believe that it is already October. Recruiting is in full swing. I am currently recruiting for fall 2009 as well as spring 2010 (MBA). The cycles flow from one right into the other. Just when admissions have been decided, recruiting begins again for the next year. This is comforting for me.
The next application deadline is for PhDs. This is January 15. I will talk more about them next post.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Tomorrow is the big day!
Tomorrow is the MBA admissions committee meeting. April 1 is the early admission decision deadline. This deadline is for students who are looking at other programs that begin in August. To date, we have admitted 14 new MBA students and of those 14, 12 accepted our offer. These 12 students have an average GMAT of 633, an average GPA of 3.5, and they average over four years of work experience.
Our final decision deadline is September 15. We will review 30 new applications at the meeting tomorrow. The final goal for the MBA class that will begin in January 2009 is approximately 35 students. We will continue to accept applications through November.
The GSB will admit another round of MBA students tomorrow. At this time, graduate assistantships will also be awarded. Late applicants may not be eligible for an assistantships as all may be awarded tomorrow. If we do not award all of the graduate assistantships tomorrow, students who apply late will still be eligible.
This is a very exciting time for the GSB. Each year the applicant pool changes. We are looking forward to seeing how next year's new MBA students look.
Our final decision deadline is September 15. We will review 30 new applications at the meeting tomorrow. The final goal for the MBA class that will begin in January 2009 is approximately 35 students. We will continue to accept applications through November.
The GSB will admit another round of MBA students tomorrow. At this time, graduate assistantships will also be awarded. Late applicants may not be eligible for an assistantships as all may be awarded tomorrow. If we do not award all of the graduate assistantships tomorrow, students who apply late will still be eligible.
This is a very exciting time for the GSB. Each year the applicant pool changes. We are looking forward to seeing how next year's new MBA students look.
Monday, September 22, 2008
What should you look for in an MBA program?
When you are looking for an MBA program, what are you looking for? Here are some questions you should ask yourself before you begin your search:
1) Where do I want to do my MBA? This can be state, region, or school. This will help you begin your search.
2) What do I want to spend? MBA programs can be very expensive. Knowing up front what you can afford is important.
3) What concentration do I want to focus on? Different MBA programs specialize in different areas. If you know you want to study HR or real estate or finance, look for MBA programs that offer that concentration.
4) How is this program going to help me to achieve my goals? Not all programs are the same.
Now let me tell you about the Walton MBA in regard to these four questions.
1) We are located in Fayetteville, AR home of the University of Arkansas and more than 300 Fortune 500 companies.
2) Most of our students are on assistantship. A full assistantship will waive your tuition and provide you with a stipend of $2500 each semester. A partial assistantship will waive out-of-state tuition, provide the same stipend of $2500 each semester, plus a scholarship of $2500. It is unusual for an MBA program to offer financial assistance.
3) We have a retail focused MBA. What does this mean? We tend to focus more on the aspects of information systems, marketing, and logistics. These three aspects are the foundation of may businesses, not only retail. The Walton MBA has career concentrations in retail marketing, supply chain management, entrepreneurship, and finance.
4) Since we do have over 300 Fortune 500 companies in our backyard, the opportunity for jobs is staggering. Our Career Development Center works very hard to assist you in finding employment. Since we are the Walton College, we have ties with many local companies. Our students benefit from these connections.
So, not all MBA programs are the same. There are many things to consider. Read our student blogs and don't hesitate to email me with questions.
1) Where do I want to do my MBA? This can be state, region, or school. This will help you begin your search.
2) What do I want to spend? MBA programs can be very expensive. Knowing up front what you can afford is important.
3) What concentration do I want to focus on? Different MBA programs specialize in different areas. If you know you want to study HR or real estate or finance, look for MBA programs that offer that concentration.
4) How is this program going to help me to achieve my goals? Not all programs are the same.
Now let me tell you about the Walton MBA in regard to these four questions.
1) We are located in Fayetteville, AR home of the University of Arkansas and more than 300 Fortune 500 companies.
2) Most of our students are on assistantship. A full assistantship will waive your tuition and provide you with a stipend of $2500 each semester. A partial assistantship will waive out-of-state tuition, provide the same stipend of $2500 each semester, plus a scholarship of $2500. It is unusual for an MBA program to offer financial assistance.
3) We have a retail focused MBA. What does this mean? We tend to focus more on the aspects of information systems, marketing, and logistics. These three aspects are the foundation of may businesses, not only retail. The Walton MBA has career concentrations in retail marketing, supply chain management, entrepreneurship, and finance.
4) Since we do have over 300 Fortune 500 companies in our backyard, the opportunity for jobs is staggering. Our Career Development Center works very hard to assist you in finding employment. Since we are the Walton College, we have ties with many local companies. Our students benefit from these connections.
So, not all MBA programs are the same. There are many things to consider. Read our student blogs and don't hesitate to email me with questions.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Gearing up for the MBA admissions committee meeting
The application deadline for the full-time MBA program was Monday, September 15. The admissions committee will meet on Tuesday, September 30. This delay gives our office the opportunity to prepare the 12 files that have arrived this week for the meeting. It also gives students a chance to submit any missing documents. We would like to meet and decide on as many completed applications as possible. We will accept applications through November. Any file that is completed by the meeting on September30th will have full consideration and will not be considered late.
After the admissions committee meeting on September 30, we will be reviewing applications as necessary. Whereas these late applications (those received after the meeting) will still be eligible for admission, they may not recieve a graduate assistantship. There is no guarantee of financial assistance after this committee meeting. We may award all assistantships on the 30th. If, however, we do not award all of our assistantships, then these late admits will be in consideration.
If you are contemplating applying for the January class and have not submitted your documents yet, please contact me immediately.
After the admissions committee meeting on September 30, we will be reviewing applications as necessary. Whereas these late applications (those received after the meeting) will still be eligible for admission, they may not recieve a graduate assistantship. There is no guarantee of financial assistance after this committee meeting. We may award all assistantships on the 30th. If, however, we do not award all of our assistantships, then these late admits will be in consideration.
If you are contemplating applying for the January class and have not submitted your documents yet, please contact me immediately.
Monday, September 15, 2008
It's time to hit the road
My life is about to get crazy. Well, more crazy than it already is. I hit the road tomorrow. I will be heading to Springfield, Missouri to Missouri State University. On Wednesday, I am going to Tulsa University and then on Friday, I will be at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas. I will be in the office on Thursday to see students and get caught up on email. Next week,I am actually staying closer to home with visits to a couple of local corporate offices. Wednesday, September 24 I will be at Wal-Mart's David Glass Technology Center from 11:00 to 1:00. On Thursday of next week, I will be at the University Engineering Park on South School Street.
You may wonder what I do when I am on the road. I am meeting new students and talking to them about graduate programs in business. I recruit for all of the Walton College's master's and Ph.D. degree programs. This is when the fun really begins for me. I thrive on getting out there among those who are excited about their future and considering a graduate program.
If I am coming to a location near you, stop by and say, "hi." As always, I welcome questions and comments.
You may wonder what I do when I am on the road. I am meeting new students and talking to them about graduate programs in business. I recruit for all of the Walton College's master's and Ph.D. degree programs. This is when the fun really begins for me. I thrive on getting out there among those who are excited about their future and considering a graduate program.
If I am coming to a location near you, stop by and say, "hi." As always, I welcome questions and comments.
Friday, September 12, 2008
The Walton MBA is now on Facebook
We are now on facebook! Go to facebook.com and search for Walton Ambassadors. This site is being managed by one of the MBA Ambassadors, Cameron Foster. On this facebook page you will be able to ask questions, see pictures of the building, and stay updated about the Walton MBA. As other ambassadors begin to blog, their links will be on this blog and they will also be on the facebook site. Please visit us.
It's a beautiful sunny Friday afternoon in Fayetteville. However, Ike is about the change that. If you are in Ike's path, I do hope you have moved to a safe location. Even in Arkansas, we are expecting a significant amount of rain and even some strong winds. I never thought I would see a hurricane in Arkansas. I doubt it will still be classified as a hurricane when it does reach us but is it odd knowing that the weather we are about to experience is the result of a hurricane.
For more information about weather in Fayetteville, visit: http://www.fayettevillear.com/economy/. This site also provides wonderful information about living and playing in this area.
It's a beautiful sunny Friday afternoon in Fayetteville. However, Ike is about the change that. If you are in Ike's path, I do hope you have moved to a safe location. Even in Arkansas, we are expecting a significant amount of rain and even some strong winds. I never thought I would see a hurricane in Arkansas. I doubt it will still be classified as a hurricane when it does reach us but is it odd knowing that the weather we are about to experience is the result of a hurricane.
For more information about weather in Fayetteville, visit: http://www.fayettevillear.com/economy/. This site also provides wonderful information about living and playing in this area.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Keeping up with the times-MBA Ambassadors
In an effort to keep up with the times, I have given some specific tasks to the Graduate School of Business MBA Ambassadors. We have five current MBA students who are acting as ambassadors. Their duties relate to recruiting the next MBA class. One aspect of this will be blogging. They are in the process of getting their blogs up and running as I type. The first one has launched. To read about David Alderson's experiences as a Walton MBA student, visit his blog: http://thewaltonmbaexperience.blogspot.com/. The link is also provided on the right. When the others start their blogs, I will include the links here.
If you are interested in corresponding with an MBA Ambassador, please let me know and I will have one email you. They are here to assist interested students by answering student specific questions. This is your opportunity to get the inside scoop.
If you are interested in corresponding with an MBA Ambassador, please let me know and I will have one email you. They are here to assist interested students by answering student specific questions. This is your opportunity to get the inside scoop.
Friday, September 5, 2008
The Home of the Walton College Graduate School of Business
I think we are very lucky in the Graduate School of Business (GSB) at the Walton College. We have an amazing new building, Walker Hall. The GSB moved in July of 2007. Classes were first taught in August of 2008. The building's architects are from Little Rock, AR and Boston, MA.
The GSB lives on the third floor of Walker Hall along with the state-of-the-art Global Financial Markets Center, managed by the Garrison Financial Institute. This Center supports experiential learning and student-managed funds of over $12 million. The high-tech facility provides access to global financial market information that rivals other top business schools as well as Wall Street firms.
The fourth floor is the graduate student floor. There are two classrooms and 12 small group rooms on this level that are specifically reserved for graduate students only.
This building is truly awe-inspiring. Check it out here: http://waltoncollege.uark.edu/walkerhall/default.asp.
The GSB lives on the third floor of Walker Hall along with the state-of-the-art Global Financial Markets Center, managed by the Garrison Financial Institute. This Center supports experiential learning and student-managed funds of over $12 million. The high-tech facility provides access to global financial market information that rivals other top business schools as well as Wall Street firms.
The fourth floor is the graduate student floor. There are two classrooms and 12 small group rooms on this level that are specifically reserved for graduate students only.
This building is truly awe-inspiring. Check it out here: http://waltoncollege.uark.edu/walkerhall/default.asp.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
My travel schedule
If you are like me, you really look forward to a three-day weekend. I even made my Labor Day weekend a four-day weekend by also taking Friday off. After the Fourth of July holiday, I began to look forward to the Labor Day weekend. Now it has come and gone and I do not have much to show for it. Now I am looking forward to the Thanksgiving Holiday. Between now and then, I will definitely put some miles on my little Subaru Forester. Here are the Career Fairs I am attending this semester:
September 16 - Missouri State University, Business Career Fair
September 17 - Tulsa University, Business Career Fair
September 19 - Harding University
September 23 - University of Arkansas, Business Career Fair
October 1 - University of Arkansas - Pine Bluff
October 2 - University of Arkansas, Engineering Expo
October 8 - Missouri Southern State University
October 14 - University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Graduate Workshop
October 16 - University of Arkansas - Fort Smith
October 22 - University of the Ozarks
October 29 - Arkansas Tech University
November 5 - University of Central Arkansas
November 6 - Hendrix
Please stop by my table and say hello if you are at any of these locations. I would love to meet you.
September 16 - Missouri State University, Business Career Fair
September 17 - Tulsa University, Business Career Fair
September 19 - Harding University
September 23 - University of Arkansas, Business Career Fair
October 1 - University of Arkansas - Pine Bluff
October 2 - University of Arkansas, Engineering Expo
October 8 - Missouri Southern State University
October 14 - University of Arkansas - Fort Smith Graduate Workshop
October 16 - University of Arkansas - Fort Smith
October 22 - University of the Ozarks
October 29 - Arkansas Tech University
November 5 - University of Central Arkansas
November 6 - Hendrix
Please stop by my table and say hello if you are at any of these locations. I would love to meet you.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Walton MBA Students Make a Splash
Our MBA students have been representing us very well. During the spring semester, several teams competed in the Donald W. Reynolds Governor's Cup, a small-business plan competition in Arkansas. All three teams who placed were from the Walton College. First place is a $20,000 cash prize. The teams then went to Las Vegas to compete in a tri-state event. A Walton College team won this event also.
More than 2,300 students from 257 schools in 69 countries attended the eighth annual Redefining Investment Strategy Education (RISE) Forum held at the University of Dayton in Ohio, March 27-29. The Walton MBA Shollmier Portfolio Management Team won first place in the Graduate Hybrid Funds Class in the student-run portfolio competition. Cory Scott, a member of Dr. Craig Rennie’s MBA Shollmier Fund Class was featured on CNBC as a result of their first-place showing. The Shollmier Fund was valued at more than $380,000 at the end of 2007. To see Cory, use the link below.
http://www.cnbc.com/id/26403121?__source=RSS*blog*&par=RSS
More than 2,300 students from 257 schools in 69 countries attended the eighth annual Redefining Investment Strategy Education (RISE) Forum held at the University of Dayton in Ohio, March 27-29. The Walton MBA Shollmier Portfolio Management Team won first place in the Graduate Hybrid Funds Class in the student-run portfolio competition. Cory Scott, a member of Dr. Craig Rennie’s MBA Shollmier Fund Class was featured on CNBC as a result of their first-place showing. The Shollmier Fund was valued at more than $380,000 at the end of 2007. To see Cory, use the link below.
http://www.cnbc.com/id/26403121?__source=RSS*blog*&par=RSS
Monday, August 25, 2008
Welcome Back Students
Today is the first day of class. I was very ready for classes to get started. There is such a "lead up" to this day that it is often a relief to have it finally here. However, I forgot about what usually happens to our computers on this very busy, first day of classes. Of course I could not send any emails nor could I access one of my folders. I have become very dependent on my email. I have to say that I was very lost and a little unsure about what I should be doing if I could not answer my email. Thankfully this was a temporary setback and all is well in my computer world once again.
Campus is drastically different when students are here. The summer is much quieter in terms of student traffic. This also corresponds to traffic in Fayetteville in general. Once fall semester begins, the roads are more congested and campus is teeming with life. I love it (okay, I don't like the crowded streets but I love it when the students come back to campus). I get such a charge out of the excitement and the energy that students have.
With classes underway, I will soon hit the road. I will be visiting several undergraduate institutions to recruit for our graduate programs. I will post my travel schedule soon. Be sure to come and visit me if I am coming to your campus. I would love to meet you.
Campus is drastically different when students are here. The summer is much quieter in terms of student traffic. This also corresponds to traffic in Fayetteville in general. Once fall semester begins, the roads are more congested and campus is teeming with life. I love it (okay, I don't like the crowded streets but I love it when the students come back to campus). I get such a charge out of the excitement and the energy that students have.
With classes underway, I will soon hit the road. I will be visiting several undergraduate institutions to recruit for our graduate programs. I will post my travel schedule soon. Be sure to come and visit me if I am coming to your campus. I would love to meet you.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Walton College Part-time Graduate Programs
The Walton College does offer three graduate programs for full-time working professionals: Executive MBA, Managerial MBA, and Professional MIS.
The Executive MBA program is located in Shanghai, China. This program is for high-level executives who either live and work in China or reside in the US but work primarily with Chinese-based companies. Each student in this program is sponsored by their company. This program starts in February with an Orientation in Fayetteville. Students then have nine face-to-face meetings in Shanghai over the next 14 months and the final face-to-face meeting is in May in Fayetteville. For more information go to: http://gsb.uark.edu/emba/.
Our Managerial MBA (MMBA) begins each August. Students take six hours each semester for six semesters and attend class only one Saturday each month. In between these face-to-face meetings, you will work online. We do have students attending this program from outside of Arkansas. Since you are only in Fayetteville one Saturday each month, it allows students from outside of our immediate geographical area to participate. This adds depth and diversity to the program. The application deadline for the MMBA is April 1. We admit approximately 55-60 students each year.
The Professional MIS is our part-time Master of Information Systems degree. This program starts each August and students take six hours a semester and attend class one night each week for five semesters. This program uses a blended delivery, meaning that for each class, there are face-to-face components (classroom setting) and online components (electronic). The application deadline for the Professional MIS is March 15. This program allows those working in the IT industry to complete their master's degree while remaining employed. Students who do not have a computer related background may still be eligible for this program. If you are interested, be sure to contact me and we can discuss this opportunity.
The Executive MBA program is located in Shanghai, China. This program is for high-level executives who either live and work in China or reside in the US but work primarily with Chinese-based companies. Each student in this program is sponsored by their company. This program starts in February with an Orientation in Fayetteville. Students then have nine face-to-face meetings in Shanghai over the next 14 months and the final face-to-face meeting is in May in Fayetteville. For more information go to: http://gsb.uark.edu/emba/.
Our Managerial MBA (MMBA) begins each August. Students take six hours each semester for six semesters and attend class only one Saturday each month. In between these face-to-face meetings, you will work online. We do have students attending this program from outside of Arkansas. Since you are only in Fayetteville one Saturday each month, it allows students from outside of our immediate geographical area to participate. This adds depth and diversity to the program. The application deadline for the MMBA is April 1. We admit approximately 55-60 students each year.
The Professional MIS is our part-time Master of Information Systems degree. This program starts each August and students take six hours a semester and attend class one night each week for five semesters. This program uses a blended delivery, meaning that for each class, there are face-to-face components (classroom setting) and online components (electronic). The application deadline for the Professional MIS is March 15. This program allows those working in the IT industry to complete their master's degree while remaining employed. Students who do not have a computer related background may still be eligible for this program. If you are interested, be sure to contact me and we can discuss this opportunity.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Welcome Walton College Graduate Students
For the MMBA (our part-time MBA also known as the Managerial MBA), the first day of class is this Saturday, August 23. The schedule for the 08-09 academic year can be found at http://gsb.uark.edu/mba/managerial_home.asp. This program meets on campus one Saturday each month and students take six hours a semester. The MMBA is completed in two years.
The MIS (Master of Information Systems), Professional MIS (part-time MIS), MAEcon (Master of Arts in Economics), and MAcc (Master of Accountancy) programs will begin next week, the week of August 25. The full-time MBA also begins (for our returning students) on Monday. New students in the MBA will not begin until January, 2009.
We are very excited to have our new students begin next week. The GSB works for many months to get these new students admitted, registered, and through Orientation. Having them here and beginning their classes is very rewarding for us all.
We are also glad to see our returning students. The MBA students are beginning their second semester in this three-semester program. They have spent their summers interning (10-12 weeks) at fabulous area companies. These students will complete their MBA in May. One semester down, and two more to go.
In parting, WELCOME TO THE WALTON COLLEGE. We are glad you are here!
The MIS (Master of Information Systems), Professional MIS (part-time MIS), MAEcon (Master of Arts in Economics), and MAcc (Master of Accountancy) programs will begin next week, the week of August 25. The full-time MBA also begins (for our returning students) on Monday. New students in the MBA will not begin until January, 2009.
We are very excited to have our new students begin next week. The GSB works for many months to get these new students admitted, registered, and through Orientation. Having them here and beginning their classes is very rewarding for us all.
We are also glad to see our returning students. The MBA students are beginning their second semester in this three-semester program. They have spent their summers interning (10-12 weeks) at fabulous area companies. These students will complete their MBA in May. One semester down, and two more to go.
In parting, WELCOME TO THE WALTON COLLEGE. We are glad you are here!
Friday, August 15, 2008
Orientation Madness
The GSB (Graduate School of Business) is knee deep in Orientation right now. We conduct Orientation sessions each summer for all master's and PhD degree programs. On July 31 we did Orientation for the Master of Arts in Economics, PhD in Accounting, PhD in Economics, and PhD in Finance. On Monday of this week, we did an Orientation session for Master of Information Systems - both full and part-time programs. The Orientation for our Managerial MBA (MMBA), our part-time MBA program, began yesterday and will run through Sunday. Next week on Tuesday and Wednesday we will Orient the Master of Accountancy students. Last but not least, next Thursday will be the Orientation session for the PhD in Information Systems, PhD in Management, and PhD in Marketing. This is a very busy time for our office and while we are "knee deep in Orientation," we occasionally have to hold off on our other projects. Classes start on Monday, August 25.
Since our full-time MBA program begins in January, that Orientation will be January 5-9. This is an intensive week designed to allow the students to get to know each other, begin to learn to work together in teams, and to prepare them for the academic rigors ahead. We do also have fun this week. It is not all work.
As classes are about to begin, you would think that GSB Admissions would be patting themselves on the back and sitting back, glad that the programs were full and about to begin. In reality, I will start my recruiting season next month. It is time to work on the next year's classes. Application deadlines are in the spring; therefore the fall semester is when most of the recruiting occurs. I love this time of year. It's when I get to hit the road and meet new people - people who are looking for that next stage in their lives, which may be going to graduate school. If this is you, please let me know. Maybe I'll see you on the road.
Since our full-time MBA program begins in January, that Orientation will be January 5-9. This is an intensive week designed to allow the students to get to know each other, begin to learn to work together in teams, and to prepare them for the academic rigors ahead. We do also have fun this week. It is not all work.
As classes are about to begin, you would think that GSB Admissions would be patting themselves on the back and sitting back, glad that the programs were full and about to begin. In reality, I will start my recruiting season next month. It is time to work on the next year's classes. Application deadlines are in the spring; therefore the fall semester is when most of the recruiting occurs. I love this time of year. It's when I get to hit the road and meet new people - people who are looking for that next stage in their lives, which may be going to graduate school. If this is you, please let me know. Maybe I'll see you on the road.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships (GA) are available to students in all of our full-time programs. Master's degree students who are awarded a GA will receive either a full or partial tuition waiver and a stipend. Students may also receive an additional scholarship. In return, you will work 15 hours each week during the course of your program. Many students are able to work off-campus. We have several corporate partners who hire our GA's. These companies include: Wal-Mart, Tyson, Procter & Gamble, Sunbeam, Dial, Hershey, Dannon, Novartis, Mars, and many more. This is an amazing opportunity for our students. They are able to gain valuable work experience during their master's degree program and make connections with the vendor community of Northwest Arkansas.
Students admitted to our PhD programs will recieve an annual GA of $17,000. Many of these students are also eligible for the Distinguished Doctoral Fellowship (an additional $20,000 annually) or the Doctoral Academy Fellowship (an additional $10,000 annually). In return, doctoral students work 20 hours a week either teaching or assisting with research.
These assistantships further strengthen the academic curriculum of each program. By providing valuable work experience, your time at the Walton College is well-spent.
Students admitted to our PhD programs will recieve an annual GA of $17,000. Many of these students are also eligible for the Distinguished Doctoral Fellowship (an additional $20,000 annually) or the Doctoral Academy Fellowship (an additional $10,000 annually). In return, doctoral students work 20 hours a week either teaching or assisting with research.
These assistantships further strengthen the academic curriculum of each program. By providing valuable work experience, your time at the Walton College is well-spent.
Friday, August 8, 2008
The Walton MBA
Final application deadline for The Walton MBA is fast approaching. September 15 is the date that should be circled in red on your calendar. We will accept applications after this date; however, to be in the consideration for graduate assistantships, you should plan on having your documents submitted by the deadline.
This newly redesigned program was first rolled out in January of 2007. These students just graduated this May and their annual starting salary was $75,452 with a range of $62,000 to $110,000. This first class consisted of 30 students. These students had an average GMAT of 625 and they averaged a little over three years of work experience.
The second class to start this new program began in January of this year. We admitted 32 and they had an average GMAT of 630 and 27 months of work experience. They will graduate next May and we are expecting fantastic placement stats from them too.
We are in the planning stages of the next class to begin in January of 2009. We are expecting to admit between 35 and 40 students.
Graduate assistantships will be the topic of the next post. For more information about The Walton MBA, go to: http://gsb.uark.edu/mba/fulltime_overview.asp. As always, please email me with questions.
This newly redesigned program was first rolled out in January of 2007. These students just graduated this May and their annual starting salary was $75,452 with a range of $62,000 to $110,000. This first class consisted of 30 students. These students had an average GMAT of 625 and they averaged a little over three years of work experience.
The second class to start this new program began in January of this year. We admitted 32 and they had an average GMAT of 630 and 27 months of work experience. They will graduate next May and we are expecting fantastic placement stats from them too.
We are in the planning stages of the next class to begin in January of 2009. We are expecting to admit between 35 and 40 students.
Graduate assistantships will be the topic of the next post. For more information about The Walton MBA, go to: http://gsb.uark.edu/mba/fulltime_overview.asp. As always, please email me with questions.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Final admissions decisions have been made for the fall 2008 MMBA
The admissions committee met for the last time this week to make decisions regarding our last few applications. The MMBA class to begin in fall 2008 will consist of 57 students with an average GMAT of 580. This class also has an average GPA of 3.3 and averages over 6 years of work experience. To date, we have received 95 applications for this program.
If you are interested in applying for the MMBA for fall 2009, application deadline is April 1. The committee for this particular program focuses primarily on three components of the application: GMAT score, work experience, and GPA.
New students for this fall represent such companies as: Wal-Mart, Tyson, JB Hunt, ConAgra, ABF Freight, Kraft, Procter & Gamble, Nestle, Hershey, Colgate Palmolive, and Target.
If you are interested in applying for the MMBA for fall 2009, application deadline is April 1. The committee for this particular program focuses primarily on three components of the application: GMAT score, work experience, and GPA.
New students for this fall represent such companies as: Wal-Mart, Tyson, JB Hunt, ConAgra, ABF Freight, Kraft, Procter & Gamble, Nestle, Hershey, Colgate Palmolive, and Target.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Northwest Arkansas
The University of Arkansas is located in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Fayetteville is located in the Northwest corner of the state. The city population is approximately 70,000. Fayetteville, along with Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville make up the area known as Northwest Arkansas. This area is rich in opportunity.
The home offices of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt Transport are all located in Northwest Arkasas. Also, over 300 Fortune 500 companies are located here. This gives our graduate students an amazing number of opportunities.
Fayetteville was:
* Ranked in the Top 100 places to live in 2006 by Relocate America.
* Voted #1 in Arkansas and #74 nationally for best green places to live in America by Sperling’s.
* Ranked as the #1 clean air city by COPD Digest.
* Ranked by Kiplinger’s as one of the top ten Best College Towns in 2007 and rated 7th among the BEST Places to Live, Work and Play in 2008.
Things to do and see include:
* The Walton Arts Center – www.waltonartscenter.org
* Historic downtown square
* Farmer’s market
* Dickson Street
* Northwest Arkansas Naturals – minor league baseball
* Razorback athletics
Outdoor activities include:
* Floating our numerous rivers including the Buffalo, White, Elk, Mulberry, Illinois and King’s River
* Rock Climbing and hiking at Devil’s Den
* Biking in the Ozarks
* Camping at any of our 52 Arkansas state parks, 6 national parks or 3 national forests
Business Environment:
* Home to over 300 Fortune 500 companies.
* Corporate headquarters for Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt.
* Expansion Management in 2007 recognized the Fayetteville MSA as the #12 Economic Development hot spot and #3 in the mid-size category among Top Cities for Business Recruitment and Attraction.
* Voted by Forbes at 8th in the nation for Best Places for Business and Careers in 2007.
* Voted #4 in Inc. magazine for Best Cities Doing Business, mid-size city category and #13 overall.
The home offices of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt Transport are all located in Northwest Arkasas. Also, over 300 Fortune 500 companies are located here. This gives our graduate students an amazing number of opportunities.
Fayetteville was:
* Ranked in the Top 100 places to live in 2006 by Relocate America.
* Voted #1 in Arkansas and #74 nationally for best green places to live in America by Sperling’s.
* Ranked as the #1 clean air city by COPD Digest.
* Ranked by Kiplinger’s as one of the top ten Best College Towns in 2007 and rated 7th among the BEST Places to Live, Work and Play in 2008.
Things to do and see include:
* The Walton Arts Center – www.waltonartscenter.org
* Historic downtown square
* Farmer’s market
* Dickson Street
* Northwest Arkansas Naturals – minor league baseball
* Razorback athletics
Outdoor activities include:
* Floating our numerous rivers including the Buffalo, White, Elk, Mulberry, Illinois and King’s River
* Rock Climbing and hiking at Devil’s Den
* Biking in the Ozarks
* Camping at any of our 52 Arkansas state parks, 6 national parks or 3 national forests
Business Environment:
* Home to over 300 Fortune 500 companies.
* Corporate headquarters for Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt.
* Expansion Management in 2007 recognized the Fayetteville MSA as the #12 Economic Development hot spot and #3 in the mid-size category among Top Cities for Business Recruitment and Attraction.
* Voted by Forbes at 8th in the nation for Best Places for Business and Careers in 2007.
* Voted #4 in Inc. magazine for Best Cities Doing Business, mid-size city category and #13 overall.
Friday, July 25, 2008
GSB Programs
I think I should take this opportunity to briefly outline the available programs at the Graduate School of Business at the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas.
We offer 7 Master's degree programs:
full-time MBA - http://gsb.uark.edu/mba/fulltime_overview.asp
part-time MBA - http://gsb.uark.edu/mba/managerial_home.asp
Executive MBA - http://gsb.uark.edu/emba/
Master of Accountancy - http://gsb.uark.edu/ACCT/default.asp
Master of Arts in Economics - http://gsb.uark.edu/ECON/default.asp
full-time Master of Information Systems - http://gsb.uark.edu/ISYS/default.asp
part-time Master of Information Systems - http://gsb.uark.edu/ISYS/default.asp
The Walton College also offers PhD's in 6 different areas:
Accounting - http://gsb.uark.edu/ACCT/acctphd.asp
Economics - http://gsb.uark.edu/ECON/econphd.asp
Finance - http://gsb.uark.edu/FINN/default.asp
Information Systems - http://gsb.uark.edu/ISYS/isysphd.asp
Management - http://gsb.uark.edu/MGMT/default.asp
Marketing - http://gsb.uark.edu/MGMT/default.asp
Each master's degree program has a different application deadline so be sure to pay close attention to this detail. All PhD applications are due January 15. For more admissions information, go to: http://gsb.uark.edu/admission.asp. Each program is competitive and selective. Admissions decisions are made based on a variety of factors, most importantly: GMAT score, work experience (for the MBA programs), and GPA.
The Walton College is located in Northwest Arkansas. I will provide more in my next post about this amazing location. It is quite a hidden gem. To learn more about Fayetteville, visit: http://www.fayettevillear.com/live/.
Please feel free to email with any questions.
We offer 7 Master's degree programs:
full-time MBA - http://gsb.uark.edu/mba/fulltime_overview.asp
part-time MBA - http://gsb.uark.edu/mba/managerial_home.asp
Executive MBA - http://gsb.uark.edu/emba/
Master of Accountancy - http://gsb.uark.edu/ACCT/default.asp
Master of Arts in Economics - http://gsb.uark.edu/ECON/default.asp
full-time Master of Information Systems - http://gsb.uark.edu/ISYS/default.asp
part-time Master of Information Systems - http://gsb.uark.edu/ISYS/default.asp
The Walton College also offers PhD's in 6 different areas:
Accounting - http://gsb.uark.edu/ACCT/acctphd.asp
Economics - http://gsb.uark.edu/ECON/econphd.asp
Finance - http://gsb.uark.edu/FINN/default.asp
Information Systems - http://gsb.uark.edu/ISYS/isysphd.asp
Management - http://gsb.uark.edu/MGMT/default.asp
Marketing - http://gsb.uark.edu/MGMT/default.asp
Each master's degree program has a different application deadline so be sure to pay close attention to this detail. All PhD applications are due January 15. For more admissions information, go to: http://gsb.uark.edu/admission.asp. Each program is competitive and selective. Admissions decisions are made based on a variety of factors, most importantly: GMAT score, work experience (for the MBA programs), and GPA.
The Walton College is located in Northwest Arkansas. I will provide more in my next post about this amazing location. It is quite a hidden gem. To learn more about Fayetteville, visit: http://www.fayettevillear.com/live/.
Please feel free to email with any questions.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Summer Recruiting
The Walton College's first annual MBA Open House and Summer Social was a huge success. The evening began with an MBA program presentation done by me and the MBA Director, Dr. Alan Ellstrand in our new state-of-the-art building, Willard J. Walker Hall: http://waltoncollege.uark.edu/walkerhall/. This part of the evening was for prospective students interested in either the MBA or the MMBA programs.
Following this Open House, an MBA Summer Social was held at the University House on campus. The Summer Social was for current, former, newly admitted, and prospective MBA students. MBA faculty were also in attendance. This was a great opportunity for new students to meet and talk to current students. Also, students interested in the program were able to meet current students and ask questions as well as meet faculty members.
The next Open House is scheduled for Thursday, October 23 at 6:00 in Walker Hall. There will also be an opportunity for prospective MBA students to come to campus on Monday, September 22 for our MBA Internship Showcase.
Don't forget that the final application deadline for the full-time MBA program is September 15.
Following this Open House, an MBA Summer Social was held at the University House on campus. The Summer Social was for current, former, newly admitted, and prospective MBA students. MBA faculty were also in attendance. This was a great opportunity for new students to meet and talk to current students. Also, students interested in the program were able to meet current students and ask questions as well as meet faculty members.
The next Open House is scheduled for Thursday, October 23 at 6:00 in Walker Hall. There will also be an opportunity for prospective MBA students to come to campus on Monday, September 22 for our MBA Internship Showcase.
Don't forget that the final application deadline for the full-time MBA program is September 15.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Update on MBA admission
The Graduate School of Business is in the final stages of the admission process for our part-time MBA (Managerial MBA - MMBA) program. To date, 47 students have been admitted. We anticipate admitting 10-20 more between now and the end of July. Thus far, average GMAT for this class equals 587, average GPA equals about 3.2, and average work experience is about 6. These numbers will change when the final applicants have been admitted.
The deadline for the full-time MBA program is not until September 15. To date 13 students have been admitted and we anticipate admitting between 35 and 40. Currently the average GMAT for this class (that begins in January) is 633, average GPA is about 3.4, and the average number of years of work experience is about 5. Again, since the final application deadline is not until September 15, these numbers will change once final decisions have been made.
We are very pleased with the status of the Walton College MBA programs. The quality of our applicants continues to improve each year making admissions decisions more and more difficult. This benefits our students and it also benefits the MBA programs.
The deadline for the full-time MBA program is not until September 15. To date 13 students have been admitted and we anticipate admitting between 35 and 40. Currently the average GMAT for this class (that begins in January) is 633, average GPA is about 3.4, and the average number of years of work experience is about 5. Again, since the final application deadline is not until September 15, these numbers will change once final decisions have been made.
We are very pleased with the status of the Walton College MBA programs. The quality of our applicants continues to improve each year making admissions decisions more and more difficult. This benefits our students and it also benefits the MBA programs.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Greetings from the Graduate School of Business (GSB) at the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas (UofA). I am the Assistant Director: Marketing and Recruiting and this blog will provide updates on the recruiting and admissions aspects of the GSB.
On July 11, the GSB will host an Open House and its first annual MBA Summer Social at the UofA. The Open House will be at 5:30 on the 4th floor of Walker Hall. The MBA Summer Social will follow at the University House. The Open House is for prospective students who are interested in either of the MBA (full or part-time) programs. The purpose of the MBA Summer Social is for current, former, prospective, and newly admitted MBA students to mingle.
Questions regarding the GSB should be directed to gsb@walton.uark.edu.
On July 11, the GSB will host an Open House and its first annual MBA Summer Social at the UofA. The Open House will be at 5:30 on the 4th floor of Walker Hall. The MBA Summer Social will follow at the University House. The Open House is for prospective students who are interested in either of the MBA (full or part-time) programs. The purpose of the MBA Summer Social is for current, former, prospective, and newly admitted MBA students to mingle.
Questions regarding the GSB should be directed to gsb@walton.uark.edu.
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