"The only person you're really competing with is who you were yesterday."

Preparing for the GMAT isn't supposed to be easy—and that's the point.

In the last episode of 2025, GMAC Zach sits down with Stefan Maisnier, longtime GMAT instructor and parter at MyGuru, to unpack why GMAT prep feels so challenging, what skills the exam is actually measuring, and how the mindset you develop while studying can pay dividends far beyond test day.

Stefan famously describes GMAT prep as "eating your vegetables"—not always enjoyable, but undeniably good for you. Together, Zach and Stefan explore why productive discomfort leads to real growth, how to reframe negative beliefs about math and reading, and why the GMAT remains a powerful tool for self-improvement in an age of shortcuts and AI.

If you're feeling stuck, intimidated, or tempted to avoid the GMAT altogether, this conversation will help you rethink the value of the challenge.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why the GMAT is designed to feel difficult—and why that's intentional
• What the exam actually measures (and why it matters for business school and leadership)
• How GMAT prep builds skills that carry into MBA coursework and professional life
• Why "I'm not a math person" or "I'm not a reader" is usually a learned belief—not a fact
• How adaptive testing changes the test-taking experience
• Why improvement over time can be more compelling than a single high score
• Realistic timelines and expectations for GMAT prep
• How to shift from a "this is painful" mindset to a "this is valuable" mindset

About MyGuru:

For 15 years, MyGuru has provided an unparalleled edge to students worldwide by empowering a team of uniquely qualified subject matter experts to use their individual expertise and experience to provide dynamic real-time instruction rather than boring one-size-fits-all curricula to every client. They have delivered customized in-person and virtual tutoring to individuals at the middle school, high school, college, graduate, and professional levels as well as enterprise tutoring solutions for institutions such as Northwestern Mutual and Northeastern Illinois University.

Helpful links:

MyGuru Website: https://www.myguruedge.com/en-us/

MyGuru on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MyGuruEdge

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

Sign up for GMAC Advancery to Find Best-Fit B-Schools Schools: https://advancery.gmac.com/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to GMAT and Mindset for Success 01:35 Understanding the GMAT's Purpose and Value 04:11 The Importance of Challenging Yourself 06:39 Engaging with the GMAT: Strategies for Success 10:35 Overcoming Misconceptions About Math and Reading 14:15 The Adaptive Nature of the GMAT Exam 18:20 The Role of Improvement Over Perfection 19:54 How to Schedule Your Prep Timeline 23:07 Mindset and Overcoming Obstacles 25:15 The Importance of Self-Improvement 30:11 Navigating Test Preparation 34:12 Embracing the Learning Journey

It's Week 7 of Zach's EA prep, and Stacey from Manhattan Prep helps GMAC Zach review his most recent practice exam, focusing on three specific problems: a Two-Part Analysis question in the Integrated Reasoning section, a Critical Reasoning quesiton in the Verbal section, and a complex Problem Solving question in the Quantitative Reasoning section. They explore strategies for tackling each type of question, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying logic, taking notes, and being aware of traps in answer choices. The discussion highlights the need for effective test preparation and the value of learning from mistakes to improve performance in future exams.

About Stacey:

Stacey Koprince is one of the most recognized names in test prep, with over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT, EA, GRE, and LSAT. As Manhattan Prep's Director of Content & Curriculum, she has written countless articles, guides, and video explanations that thousands of students rely on. A former management consultant, Stacey now spends her days helping future business leaders master tricky concepts and find confidence in their prep—something she's passionate about seeing "click" for every student.

Helpful links:

Register for the EA: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/register

Purchase EA Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare

GMAC Free EA Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare/free-prep-resources

Manhattan Prep EA Resources: https://www.kaptest.com/gmat/courses/executive-assessment-test-prep

Takeaways:

• Taking notes during the exam can help clarify complex questions.

• Understanding the logic behind questions is crucial for success.

• Each answer choice is designed to test specific reasoning skills.

• It's important to identify key details in the question prompt.

• Practice with various question types can enhance test-taking strategies.

• Avoid rushing to answer choices before analyzing the question.

• Recognizing distractor answers can prevent common mistakes.

• Familiarity with question formats can reduce anxiety during the test.

• Effective time management is essential for completing all questions.

• Learning from incorrect answers is vital for improvement.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Context Setting 00:46 Integrated Reasoning (IR) Question - Two-Part Analysis 13:08 Verbal Reasoning (VR) Question - Critical Reasoning 27:33 Quantitative Reasoning (QR) Question - Problem Solving 37:53 In Review & Next Steps

Practice Exam #2 results are in...and they are good!

It's Week 6 of GMAC Zach's EA prep and the results are in for his second practice exam. In this week's episode, Stacey dives into Zach's results, focusing on his score improvement and the strategies he employed during his preparation. They also explore the emotional aspects of test-taking, the importance of reviewing results, and the next steps in Zach's study plan. The conversation also touches on how life challenges can impact preparation and the structure of the exam itself, highlighting personal preferences and strategies for success.

About Stacey:

Stacey Koprince is one of the most recognized names in test prep, with over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT, EA, GRE, and LSAT. As Manhattan Prep's Director of Content & Curriculum, she has written countless articles, guides, and video explanations that thousands of students rely on. A former management consultant, Stacey now spends her days helping future business leaders master tricky concepts and find confidence in their prep—something she's passionate about seeing "click" for every student.

Helpful links:

Register for the EA: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/register

Purchase EA Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare

GMAC Free EA Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare/free-prep-resources

Manhattan Prep EA Resources: https://www.kaptest.com/gmat/courses/executive-assessment-test-prep

Takeaways:

• The importance of reviewing practice exam results to identify strengths and weaknesses.
• Life challenges can serve as motivation during test preparation.
• It's common for scores to fluctuate; not every practice test will show improvement.
• Understanding the exam structure can help reduce anxiety.
• Reviewing questions you got wrong is crucial for future success.
• Focus on low-hanging fruit when studying for improvement.
• Practice tests should be taken within a few days of review for better retention.
• The EA exam's panel structure can be psychologically comforting.
• Setting realistic goals for future practice tests is essential.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Practice Exam Results 01:35 Score Analysis and Improvement Strategies 03:58 Life Challenges and Test Performance 05:47 Reviewing Practice Exam Results 08:34 Next Steps and Future Practice Tests 10:28 Exam Structure and Test-Taking Strategies

Register for GMAC Insider Week Free:

https://go.gmac.com/gmac-insider-week-december-2025-virtual-seminar-series

Do you want free, focused guidance to level-up your business school applications and GMAT performance - with exclusive bonuses for attendees!

Join us for our first ever GMAC Insider Week! A series of FREE 30-minute seminars with top test prep and admissions counselors.

For each seminar, live attendees will be entered to win one full GMAT Exam Voucher AND receive an exclusive 10% discount on official GMAT Prep products - up to $330 in value!

Tell 'em GMAC Zach sent you.

Writing the "Why Our School?" essay is one of the toughest—and most overlooked—parts of the MBA application. In this episode, GMAC Zach sits down with Jeremy Shinewald, founder of MBA Mission and one of the most trusted voices in MBA admissions, to break down how to turn this high-stakes prompt into a powerful statement of fit.

Jeremy explains why this essay is far more than a formality, where most applicants go wrong, and the three core components every strong response must include: your context, your goals, and a bridge that connects those goals to the school's specific resources. He also shares insider tips from two decades of advising thousands of candidates, including how to avoid sounding generic, why authenticity matters more than perfection, and how to demonstrate conviction that resonates with admissions committees.

If you want to tell your story with clarity, purpose, and genuine fit, this episode is your roadmap.

Featured Resources:

mbaMission: https://www.mbamission.com

onTrack by mbaMission: https://ontrack.mbamission.com

About Our Guest:

Jeremy Shinewald is the founder of mbaMission (Poets and Quants 4x top-ranked MBA admissions consulting firm) and is an industry founder, innovator and driver. He is the author of the Complete Start to Finish Guide to MBA admissions and "'What Matters?' and 'What More?': 50 Successful Essays for the Stanford GSB and HBS (and Why They Worked)". He is the creator of onTrack by mbaMission, an asynchronous MBA admissions course and platform which Poets and Quants called, "the most comprehensive MBA admissions resource ever created." Jeremy's thought leadership has led to him being quoted in the WSJ, NYT and many other media outlets.

Takeaways:

• The 'Why Our School' essay is crucial for MBA applications.
• Applicants often make the mistake of pandering to schools.
• Authenticity is key; don't try to be someone you're not.
• Understanding your goals before applying is essential.
• Researching schools thoroughly can enhance your application.
• Your personal statement should reflect genuine fit with the school.
• Communication skills are vital in the application process.
• Context in your essay should lead to your goals.
• Don't leave your application to the last minute.

Chapters:

00:00 The Journey of Entrepreneurship 00:35 Understanding the MBA Admissions Process 05:25 The Art of Personal Statements 08:19 Crafting the 'Why Our School' Essay 10:36 Crafting Your MBA Goals 15:07 Understanding the School's Fit 18:19 The Importance of Clarity in Goals 20:20 Valuing the 'Why This School' Essay 22:07 Final Thoughts on the Application Process

In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach sits down with Ashwini Deshpande, a former fashion designer turned MBA candidate whose two-month GMAT sprint transformed her entire career trajectory. Ashwini shares how she went from designing digital fashion at Meta to scoring a 750 on the exam (roughly a 715 on today's scale), earning admission—and a scholarship—to the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

She walks through her unconventional path, why she approached GMAT prep like a creative challenge, how the right prep tools accelerated her progress, and why non-traditional applicants should see their backgrounds as an advantage, not a barrier. Ashwini also explains how her GMAT skills still show up in the classroom and in consulting recruiting—and how confidence, mindset, and self-reflection powered every step of her journey.

You can follow Ashwini's MBA adventures on Instagram, offering a behind-the-scenes look at classes, campus life, and what it's really like to be a business student with a fashion-tech edge.

Explore GMAT Prep: https://www.mba.com/gmat-exam-prep

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

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GMATbyGMAC

Takeaways:

• Creativity can lead to a successful MBA journey and prep plan.
• Self-reflection is key in GMAT preparation.
• Non-traditional backgrounds can be advantageous in applications.
• Choosing the right business school is crucial for fit.
• A strong GMAT score can open doors to not just top schools, but scholarship opportunities.
• Start preparing early to avoid last-minute stress.
• Utilize resources that match your learning style.
• Confidence is essential for non-traditional candidates.
• Success is achievable with dedication and the right mindset.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Ashwini's Journey 05:03 The GMAT Experience: Preparation and Strategy 10:23 Choosing the Right Business School 15:32 Leveraging a Unique Background in Applications 21:06 Advice for Non-Traditional MBA Candidates 25:59 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

In the latest installment of GMAC Zach's EA prep journey, Zach is joined by test prep expert Stacey Koprince for another candid conversation about tacking the exam. Fresh off completing the Foundations of Math book, Zach shares what surprised him, what clicked, and what still feels intimidating — from story problems that suddenly felt accessible to "age problems" that he hopes never appear on test day. Stacey breaks down the science of curiosity-driven learning, reveals which math topics appear more or less frequently on the EA, and offers practical strategies for prioritizing prep when time is short.

The episode dives into one of Zach's biggest hurdles: memorizing fraction–decimal–percent conversions. Stacey walks him through how to derive conversions logically rather than rote-memorize long tables, giving Zach (and listeners) a more intuitive path forward. They also discuss leveraging AI carefully, using Foundations of Math as a reference tool, and maximizing the last few days before Zach's section practice exam — especially in Integrated Reasoning.

About Stacey:

Stacey Koprince is one of the most recognized names in test prep, with over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT, EA, GRE, and LSAT. As Manhattan Prep's Director of Content & Curriculum, she has written countless articles, guides, and video explanations that thousands of students rely on. A former management consultant, Stacey now spends her days helping future business leaders master tricky concepts and find confidence in their prep—something she's passionate about seeing "click" for every student.

Helpful links:

Register for the EA: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/register

Purchase EA Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare

GMAC Free EA Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare/free-prep-resources

Manhattan Prep EA Resources: https://www.kaptest.com/gmat/courses/executive-assessment-test-prep

Takeaways:

• Curiosity enhances learning and retention.
• Practice tests help identify areas for improvement.
• Memorization of key math concepts is beneficial.
• Organization is crucial for solving complex problems.
• Focus on strengths rather than weaknesses before tests.
• Engaging with material through discussion aids understanding.
• Utilize study materials as references even after completion.
• Seek advice from test prep experts for common topics.
• Don't let external pressures affect test performance.
• Learning is a journey, and progress should be acknowledged.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Study Progress 03:02 Reflections on Learning and Curiosity 05:54 Challenges with Word Problems 08:35 Understanding Common Test Topics 09:52 Memorization Techniques for Math 17:49 Utilizing Study Materials Effectively 24:20 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

What does it take to pivot from military service to medical technology leadership? In this episode of Inside the GMAT, GMAC Zach talks with Alec Burris, a former U.S. Marine turned MBA graduate from the UC Irvine Paul Merage School of Business, and Burt Slusher, Assistant Dean for MBA and Specialty Masters Programs.

Alec shares how he translated his military discipline into business school success—and ultimately into a purpose-driven career at Edwards Lifesciences, where innovations save lives every day. Burt explains how Merage helps veterans and career changers discover their leadership strengths, connect with mission-driven employers, and find personal ROI that goes far beyond rankings.

Whether you're a veteran, a career pivoter, or someone seeking a greater sense of purpose through business education, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and inspiration for your next chapter.

Learn more about the Merage School of Business: https://merage.uci.edu/

About Our Guests:

Alec Burris is part of the Strategic Leadership Development Program at Edwards Lifesciences, a global leader in the structural heart space. He holds an MBA and is pursuing an MS in Business Analytics from the University of California, Irvine, after earning his BS in Biochemistry from Arizona State University. Originally from Alaska, Alec served in the United States Marine Corps from 2018 to 2023, concluding his service as a Platoon Sergeant with 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion.

Burt Alvaro Slusher is the Assistant Dean of MBA and Specialty Masters Programs at the University of California, Irvine's Paul Merage School of Business and has been a member of the UC Irvine community for 23-years. In this role, Burt oversees the School's current portfolio of graduate programs consisting of three MBA Programs (State-supported Full-Time MBA, and self-supporting Flex MBA and Executive MBA) and six self-supporting Specialty Masters Programs (Master of Finance, Master of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Master of Professional Accountancy, Master of Science in Business Analytics, Master in Management, and Online Master of Science in Business Analytics). In addition, this role also oversees the Master of Science in Biotech Management program in tandem with leaders from the School of Biological Sciences. Burt also serves as part of the School's senior leadership team.

Prior to his current role, Burt served as the Senior Director of Recruitment and Admissions for the Specialty Masters Programs and served as chair of the Admissions Committee. With two decades of higher education and business school experience, Burt has worked closely with Merage students, alumni, corporate outreach, marketing, and has provided career management to students while maintaining a high level of engagement with the business community. He was part of a team that helped launch the Merage School's Business Administration major in Fall of 2008 and also managed the admissions process for the Merage School's Accounting minor launched in Fall of 2004.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction 01:31 Meet Alec 03:34 Transitioning from Military to MBA 05:50 Burt on Veterans in Business School 08:53 How Alec Chose UC Irvine 14:59 The UC Irvine Advantage 23:37 Leadership Skills From Class to Career 25:26 What Veterans Bring to the MBA 27:07 The ROI of an MBA 31:56 Final Advice

Even the best test-takers struggle with doubt, careless mistakes, and burnout — but according to Manhattan Prep's Stacey Koprince, that's where real progress begins. In this episode, GMAC Zach continues his on-air EA prep journey, diving deep into the psychology of confidence, practical study modes, and why "getting it wrong" is actually the most valuable part of prep.

Stacey shares her signature strategies for diagnosing errors, building test-day habits, and even tricking your brain into enjoying Reading Comprehension (hint: it involves a little acting). From grammar vs. vocabulary to the difference between exam and study mode, this candid conversation is full of insights that will change how you think about learning and tackling the EA or GMAT.

About Stacey: Stacey Koprince is one of the most recognized names in test prep, with over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT, EA, GRE, and LSAT. As Manhattan Prep's Director of Content & Curriculum, she has written countless articles, guides, and video explanations that thousands of students rely on. A former management consultant, Stacey now spends her days helping future business leaders master tricky concepts and find confidence in their prep—something she's passionate about seeing "click" for every student.

Helpful links:

Register for the EA: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/register

Purchase EA Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare

GMAC Free EA Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare/free-prep-resources

Manhattan Prep EA Resources: https://www.kaptest.com/gmat/courses/executive-assessment-test-prep

Takeaways:

• Mindfulness techniques can help manage study-related stress.
• Building confidence is crucial for effective test-taking.
• Diagnosing mistakes helps improve future performance.
• Engaging with boring topics can be made easier with personal connections.
• Understanding the specific rules of sentence correction is essential.
• Reading comprehension requires active engagement with the material.
• Practice under test conditions to build confidence.
• Identifying question types in critical reasoning aids analysis.
• Adjusting study plans based on performance is important.
• Learning from mistakes is a key part of the preparation process.

Chapters:

00:00 Establishing Effective Processes and Habits 03:55 Conquering Self-Doubt 07:49 Don't Get Tricked! 12:07 Reading Comprehension Questions 14:50 Sentence Correction Questions 17:23 Is EA Verbal Easier Than GRE? 21:05 Critical Reasoning Questions

When most people think about business school, they imagine case studies, strategy sessions, and career advancement. But what if your MBA could help you do more than just get ahead? What if it could help you do good?

In this episode, Spencer Anderson, Head of Operations at Leland Coaching and Harvard Business School alum, joins Inside the GMAT to explore how reflection, coaching, and purpose can shape a more meaningful MBA journey. From his early setbacks to his transition from Bain to a mission-driven startup, Spencer shares how business education — and the right mindset — can turn ambition into impact.

Featured Resources:

Leland Coaching: https://www.joinleland.com

GMAC Advancery: https://advancery.gmac.com

About Our Guest:

Spencer Anderson is the Head of Operations at Leland. He spent almost 7 years at Bain & Company, primarily focused on commercial excellence and post-acquisition work. He's been engaged in various domestic and international non-profit efforts throughout his career from consulting engagements to social ventures. Spencer received his Bachelors in Economics from BYU and his MBA from Harvard Business School.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Spencer Anderson and Career Philosophy 04:05 Journey to Harvard Business School 06:55 Leadership and Integrity 10:17 Joining Leland Coaching 14:16 The Role of Coaching in Personal Growth 16:27 Navigating the MBA Application Process 19:40 Self-Discovery Through Coaching 23:36 Business as a Force for Good 25:20 Finding Meaning in Your MBA Journey

In this emotional and insightful episode, GMAC Zach opens up about receiving difficult family news that put his EA prep on pause. Joined by Manhattan Prep's Stacey Koprince, he explores how to regain focus and motivation when life throws unexpected challenges your way.

Zach and Stacey discuss how to rebuild a study rhythm after disruption, balance personal well-being with academic goals, and use mindfulness to manage anxiety and intrusive thoughts. Stacey also shares practical techniques—from giving yourself grace to diagnosing your own study needs—and offers simple exercises to strengthen focus and confidence.

Whether you're preparing for the EA, GMAT, or any big goal while juggling real-life responsibilities, this episode is a powerful reminder that progress doesn't always have to be linear.

About Stacey: Stacey Koprince is one of the most recognized names in test prep, with over 15 years of experience teaching the GMAT, GRE, and LSAT. As Manhattan Prep's Director of Content & Curriculum, she has written countless articles, guides, and video explanations that thousands of students rely on. A former management consultant, Stacey now spends her days helping future business leaders master tricky concepts and find confidence in their prep—something she's passionate about seeing "click" for every student.

Helpful links:

Register for the EA: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/register

Purchase EA Official Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare

GMAC Free EA Prep: https://www.mba.com/exams/executive-assessment/prepare/free-prep-resources

Manhattan Prep EA Resources: https://www.kaptest.com/gmat/courses/executive-assessment-test-prep

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating Personal Challenges During Study 02:36 Getting Back on Track 07:31 Dealing with Distractions 11:27 Practicing Mindfulness 17:02 Tackling Easy vs. Challenging Content