This episode was originally published on September 7, 2023.

GMAC's Eric Chambers is joined by Charles Bibilos, Founder of GMAT Ninja, where they do things a bit differently by tackling your test anxiety head on. Charles talks all things assessment anxiety, from how it can manifest in an exam environment to how to overcome it, with a lively discussion about how the latest edition of the GMAT helps reduce your chances of experiencing anxiety on test day. Tune in to get over your testing jitters!

References:

GMAT Ninja

How GMAT™ Reduces Test Anxiety

It’s the season finale, and we’re going deep!

In this solo episode, host Zach breaks down everything you’ve ever wanted to know about the GMAT exam. Whether you’re just starting to explore business school or already deep in prep mode, this is your all-in-one explainer for what’s on the exam, how it’s scored, how to prepare, and how to use your score to stand out.

Zach walks through each section of the exam, plus testing options, prep resources, accommodations, and what your score report actually tells you. You’ll also get the facts on percentile rankings, test day logistics, and why a GMAT score is more than just a number.

No hype, no gimmicks—just real talk about the #1 test in business school admisions.

WATCH ON SPOTIFY OR YOUTUBE TO SEE ACCOMPANYING SLIDES & VISUALS

Register for the GMAT: https://www.mba.com/exams/gmat-exam/register

Chapters:

01:02 - Exam Overview & Features

03:48 - Scoring Explained

08:06 - Quantitative Reasoning

10:08 - Verbal Reasoning

13:06 - Data Insights

20:22 - Accessing & Sending Your Score

25:22 - Planning for Test Day

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

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

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

Admission Concierge: https://admissionconcierge.com/

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

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

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

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

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

00:55 - The Beginning of AI in Applications

02:48 - The Role of AI in Application Strategy

05:29 - Common Uses of AI by Applicants

09:45 - Business School Response to AI

12:03 - Smart and Responsible AI Usage

12:54 - The Risks of AI in Applications

15:09 - The Importance of Authenticity

17:45 - Strategies for Authentic Writing

18:51 - Exercises for Developing Personal Narratives

20:50 - Real-Life Examples of Authenticity

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

24:31 - Final Thoughts