Class of
2013
MBA Survival Guide
SMU
Cox School of
Business
1
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions ...................................................................................................................... 4
Tuition and Billing ................................................................................................................................ 4
Classroom Issues .................................................................................................................................. 4
Administrative Issues............................................................................................................................ 5
Computing Services .............................................................................................................................. 6
Back to School Checklist ............................................................................................................................ 6
To Do ............................................................................................................................................................ 6
2011-2012 Academic Calendar .................................................................................................................. 8
Cox MBA Resources List ........................................................................................................................... 9
Before Classes Start .................................................................................................................................. 10
Accounting, Statistics and Finance Pre-requisite Requirements ........................................................ 10
Quantitative Expectations ................................................................................................................... 10
Cox MBA Academics ................................................................................................................................ 11
Core Course Descriptions ................................................................................................................... 11
Transfer Credits and Course Waivers ................................................................................................. 11
MBA Concentrations .......................................................................................................................... 11
American Airlines Global Leadership Program ................................................................................. 12
International Exchange Programs ....................................................................................................... 13
Beyond the Classroom .............................................................................................................................. 14
Cox Associate Board Executive Mentor Program .............................................................................. 14
Business Leadership Center ................................................................................................................ 15
Student Ambassador & Mentor Contact Information ......................................................................... 15
Student Organizations ......................................................................................................................... 16
Helpful Thoughts from Current Students ........................................................................................... 19
MBA Career Management Center .......................................................................................................... 21
Pre-Orientation Requirements ............................................................................................................ 21
Your Career Path ................................................................................................................................ 21
Career Management Center Resources ............................................................................................... 22
Career Management Center Events .................................................................................................... 22
Cox MBA Hiring Companies ............................................................................................................. 22
Financing the MBA ................................................................................................................................... 25
2
General Financial Planning ................................................................................................................. 25
SMU Monthly Payment Plan .............................................................................................................. 25
Graduate Assistantships ...................................................................................................................... 25
Tuition & Fees, Living Expenses ....................................................................................................... 25
Financial Aid ...................................................................................................................................... 26
Other Types of Financial Aid ............................................................................................................. 26
Scholarship and Financial Aid Research ............................................................................................ 26
International Students .............................................................................................................................. 27
International Student Checklist ........................................................................................................... 27
International Student Financial Aid .................................................................................................... 27
Relocation Information ....................................................................................................................... 27
Advice from Current International Students ....................................................................................... 28
Dallas .......................................................................................................................................................... 29
Climate/Weather ................................................................................................................................. 29
Facts and Figures ................................................................................................................................ 29
Things to Do ....................................................................................................................................... 30
Housing ............................................................................................................................................... 31
Getting Settled - Once You Have Found A Place............................................................................... 32
Resource Guide .................................................................................................................................. 33
Southern Methodist University ................................................................................................................ 35
Student Health Insurance .................................................................................................................... 35
Bookstore ............................................................................................................................................ 35
Business Cards .................................................................................................................................... 35
Printing Services ................................................................................................................................. 35
Parking ................................................................................................................................................ 36
SMU ID Card ...................................................................................................................................... 36
Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports.................................................................................................... 36
SMU Athletics .................................................................................................................................... 36
3
Frequently Asked Questions
Following is a short list of the most common questions the Admissions Office receives throughout the
year. If you don’t find the answer here or in the remainder of the Survival Guide, please let us know so
we can not only answer you but share information with your future classmates
Tuition and Billing
How much is tuition for 2011-2012?
Estimated Student Budget for Academic Year 2011 - 2012 *
Tuition and Fees
Student Living Expenses
Books and Supplies
Transportation
Health Insurance
Other Expenses
TOTAL
$45,808
$13,900
$1,650
$1,400
$1,777
$1,200
$65,735
*Nine-month budget based on SMU estimates. Individual budgets may vary significantly. Laptop budget not included, but all
students must have a laptop. Tuition and fees are subject to change.
When and how do I pay tuition?
In early August, you will receive your billing statement after formally enrolling in Fall 2011 semester
classes (directions to be sent in an e-mail along with specific deadline dates from the Student Services
team). Tuition and fees are typically due before orientation. You must pay tuition to SMU at the Bursar’s
office located in the Blanton Building (not the MBA Office). Visit this site for more details:
http://smu.edu/bursar/Webpay.asp
How can I apply for Federal student loans (for US citizens and Permanent Residents only)?
 If you do not have a FAFSA pin, go to www.pin.ed.gov and apply for a PIN number that will
serve as your signature on the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and other
federal electronic processes.
 The financial aid bulletin will be available shortly for information on loans. For priority
consideration, the FAFSA should be filed as soon as possible. FAFSA information received after
July 1, 2011 is subject to a delay in the awarding process.
 For questions related to non-scholarship forms of funding or financial aid including federal and
private loans and tuition payment options, please contact Barbara Waters at bwaters@smu.edu or
214-768-2371.
Are scholarships available throughout my 2 years at Cox?
If eligible, students are awarded scholarships upon admission. If this information was not indicated on
the acceptance letter, you did not receive a scholarship award. Scholarships are only offered during the
admissions process. Questions should be directed to Patti Cudney at pcudney@cox.smu.edu.
Classroom Issues
When do I register for classes?
4
You will receive an e-mail from the MBA Student Services team in early August which lets you know
which class section you have been assigned to and directing you to the registration system where you will
enroll in your section's set of classes. It is at this time that you will know which days and times your
classes will meet - no earlier. Over the summer, the Student Services office will mail you a packet with
instructions in the packet on how and when to register for classes.
When will I know which books to purchase?
Over the summer, the Student Services team will e-mail you a packet that contains the list of books
needed for Module A of the Fall 2011 semester. You will also want to keep an eye on the Facebook
message board for second-year students selling their used books as these can be much cheaper than the
bookstore. You will want to buy your Module A books before classes begin.
When do I start planning for my summer internship?
You can start making plans regarding your summer internship even before you start classes! Remember
that the NAWMBA conference is September 15-17, 2011 in Irving, TX (www.mbawomen.org). The
NBMBAA conference is October 4-8, 2011 in Atlanta, GA (www.nbmbaa.org). The NSHMBA
conference is October 13-16, 2011 in Anaheim, CA (www.nshmba.org). If you plan on attending these
conferences, you will need to have an idea of what type of internship you are looking for.
Learn about internship planning from Courtney Schultz, Class of 2011, by clicking here.
What do I wear to class/on campus?
We encourage business casual attire because you never really know who you might run into on
campus.....we have corporate visitors on campus frequently and you always want to make a good
impression. You’ll start to understand the approved attire once you start taking classes.
Class
Networking
Administrative
Issues
Interviews
When and where do I get my
SMU student ID?
Business
Casual
preferred
At orientation, you will have
Suits preferred
Suits required
your photo taken. These photos
will be used for your student ID
cards and for our “Faces Book.”
Business
Casual
Appropriate accessories and
The MBA Office will have your
Suits are not required
acceptable
shoes
student ID cards made and will
let you know when they are
available to be picked up. You normally pick these up at the front desk of the MBA Office. You cannot
get an ID card made until after you have paid for your tuition.
Can I use campus facilities now?
You cannot use any campus facilities until the start of classes, after you have paid tuition. You are
welcome to buy a summer pass to use the gym. To learn more about the Dedman Center, visit their
website: http://smu.edu/recsports/dedman/index.html
5
Who is my advisor?
Your first point of contact is Ana Guzman, Associate Director of Student Services, who is located in the
MBA Office (125 Fincher Building). Many other staff and faculty members are also willing and able to
provide advice and guidance throughout your time in the Cox MBA program.
How can I access my SMU campus e-mail?
SMU’s IT Office will send you a letter via postal mail. This letter will come to the address listed on your
application unless you tell us to change your address. It will have your SMU ID and e-mail listed as well
as information on how to go online to set up your webmail. If you do not receive this letter, our office
can give you your SMU ID number and e-mail address, but you will need to contact SMU’s IT Help Desk
at 214-768-4357 for your password.
Computing Services
Should I get a PC or a Mac?
There is no difference as to whether you have a PC or a Mac. If you do get a Mac, be sure you are able to
view Office 2007 documents. Note some classes will require extensive use of Microsoft Excel as well as
Analysis ToolPak Add-Ins (Solver, etc). Please ensure that your computer has the capabilities to add the
components. Further information related to computer usage at Cox will be sent during the summer.
How do I keep track of my various logins and passwords?
There will be multiple logins and passwords that you will need to remember.
1. Access.SMU and SMU Webmail –
o Use your 8-digit SMU ID number to log-in
o Temporary password mailed to you from SMU IT Office
2. MBA Admitted Students Website
o Log in – Cox2011@cox.smu.edu
o Password- dallas
Back to School Checklist
To Do
□ Submit $750 deposit and if applicable, visa documents
□ Register for Sneak Preview Weekend by March 31, 2011
□ Attend Sneak Preview Weekend - April 8-9, 2011
□ Get all recommended immunizations
□ SMU requires you to provide proof of insurance coverage or you will be automatically enrolled in
□
□
□
□
□
□
the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP).
http://smu.edu/healthcenter/medical/med_insurance.asp
Submit FAFSA information for financial aid
Find a place to live
Update your address in Access.SMU if you move from the address listed on your application
Complete resume by deadline to be announced
Complete Career Management Center self-assessments by deadline to be announced
Complete online tests by July 31
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□
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Accounting
Finance
Statistics
Register for courses (will receive registration info via email in early August)
Attend International Orientation (only for invited students) – August 8, 2011
Attend MBA Boot Camp (only for invited students) – August 8=9, 2011
Attend Finance Fundamentals Workshop (optional for all students) – August 10-12, 2011
Attend Orientation (mandatory for all students) – August 14-19, 2011
Buy books for courses
__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________
To Purchase
□ Laptop
□ Backpack
□ Course books
□ Financial calculator (current students recommend the HP 12c or TI 83 Plus)
□ __________________________________________________________
□ __________________________________________________________
7
2011-2012 Academic Calendar
COX SCHOOL OF BUSINESS / GRADUATE PROGRAMS
FALL TERM 2011
August 19, Fri
Last day to Withdraw from the term (drop all classes) with full refund
Module A – Fall 2011
August 22, Mon
August 29, Mon
September 3, Sat
September 5, Mon
September 9, Fri
September 30, Fri
October 8, Sat
October 10-15 Mon-Sat
First day of module A
Last day to late enroll or to add/drop courses for both Fall modules A and B without penalty
No classes held
University Holiday – Labor Day (no classes held)
Make-up for September 5 (Mon) all Dallas campus courses (required & elective)
Last day to drop module A course with a grade of W (no refund)
Last day of class instruction for module A
Exams for module A
Module B – Fall 2011
October 17, Mon
October 24, Mon
November 21-22, Mon/Tues
November 22, Tues
November 23, Wed
November 24, Thurs
November 26, Sat
December 3, Sat
December 5-10, Mon-Sat
First day of module B
Last day to swap for Fall module B courses
Make-up for November 23-24 (Wed-Thur) Full-Time MBA required courses
Last day to withdraw for the term or drop a module B course with a grade of W (no refund)
No classes held
University Holiday – Thanksgiving (no classes held)
No classes held
Last day of class instruction
Exams for module B
December 11-January 8
Winter Break
SPRING TERM 2012
Module A – Spring 2012
January 9, Mon
January 13, Fri
January 14, Sat
January 16, Mon
January 17, Tues
February 17, Fri
February 25, Sat
February 27 – March 3, MonSat
First day of module A
Make-up for January 16 (Mon) all Dallas campus courses (required & elective)
Classes meet
University Holiday - Martin Luther King Jr’s Birthday (no classes held)
Last day to late enroll or to add/drop courses for both Spring modules A and B without penalty
Last day to drop module A course with a grade of W (no refund)
Last day of instruction for module A
Exams for module A
March 4-11, Sun-Sun
Graduate Cox Spring Break
Module B – Spring 2012
March 12, Mon
March 19, Mon
April 6, Fri
April 7, Sat
April 20, Fri
April 28, Sat
April 30-May 5, Mon-Sat
First day of module B
Last day to swap for module B courses
University Holiday - Good Friday Holiday (no classes held)
No classes held
Last day to withdraw for the term or drop a module B course with a grade of W (no refund)
Last day of instruction module B
Exams for module B
CLASS TIMES
Fall and Spring Terms
Day-time elective class times
Day-time required core class
times
Evening class times (electives)
9:30 a.m. - 12:20 p.m.; 2:00 p.m. - 4:50 p.m. (8 class sessions)
9:30 a.m. - 10:50 a.m.; 11:00 a.m. - 12:20 p.m.; 2:00 p.m. - 3:20 p.m.; 3:30 p.m. - 4:50 p.m.
(meet twice a week for a total of 16 class sessions)
6:30 p.m. - 9:20 p.m. (8 class sessions)
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Cox MBA Resources List
Admissions - Full Time MBA
125 Fincher
Admission, scholarship awards, pre-orientation
requirements, visa questions and other general
inquiries:
MBA Student Services
125 Fincher
Transferring credit or waiving a class; only 8 credit
hours are allowed:
Bonnie Thiebaud
MBA Registrar
bthiebau@cox.smu.edu
214-768-3537
Patti Cudney
Director of Admissions
pcudney@cox.smu.edu
214-768-3001
Registering for courses:
Holly Murdoch
Assistant Director
hmurdoch@cox.smu.edu
214-768-3009
Ana Guzman
Associate Director, FTMBA
guzman@cox.smu.edu
214-768-3156
Student Financial Services
304 Selecman Hall
Loans, tuition payment plan options and nonscholarship related financial questions for need-based
loan:
Career Management Center (CMC)
146 Fincher
Pre-orientation requirements and general career
management issues:
Barbara Waters
Financial Aid Advisor
bwaters@smu.edu
214-768-2371
careers@cox.smu.edu
214-768-6227
Diversity
125 Fincher
Diversity, diversity organizations, and affinity group
questions:
Business Leadership Center (BLC)
359 Maguire
For interested students, who have accepted their Cox
offer of admission, seminars are available beginning
in summer 2011. For further information, contact:
Steve Denson
Director of Diversity
sdenson@cox.smu.edu
214-768-3153
214-768-4164
http://www.cox.smu.edu/web/blc/blc
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Before Classes Start
Accounting, Statistics and Finance Pre-requisite Requirements
Deadline: July 31, 2011
As part of your preparation, you will receive preparation materials in accounting, statistics and finance
which have been selected by the Cox School’s faculty.
Completions of all three review courses are REQUIRED prior to beginning your MBA coursework to
ensure that you enter your courses with adequate background knowledge. The course materials are
offered at no additional charge to you. We encourage you to begin the courses as soon as you receive
them (beginning in May 2011 and after the receipt of your $750 deposit.)
The courses consist of your review of the chapters, online lessons, quizzes, and the final online exam.
To demonstrate your proficiency upon completion of each course, you are required to pass an online
exam that you may retake if necessary. To meet proficiency, you must score a minimum of 80% on the
exam. Your name and satisfactory completion (score of 80% or better) will be reported to the MBA
Admissions office.
The deadline to complete all three courses and pass each exam is July 31, 2011. We encourage you
to complete this process as soon as possible.
Learn more about the online tests by clicking here.
Quantitative Expectations
As an undergraduate you may have majored in Engineering, Political Science, Finance, English or
perhaps Medieval History. Based on your previous education and work experience, it’s important for you
to determine what level of preparation you should do before entering the program. If you feel your
quantitative skills need “brushing up” then here are some ideas for you to think about:



Check out your local community college for entry level courses in statistics or accounting.
Review a recent addition of an undergraduate statistics or introduction to accounting textbook.
Refresh your Microsoft Excel skills.
Click here to learn more from a non-business major currently in
our program.
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Cox MBA Academics
One of the primary attractions for many of our students has been the overall balance a Cox School of
Business education provides. With a flexible approach to teaching, you can customize your education
based upon your professional goals, focusing your course selection to become an expert in a specific field
or choosing a variety of disciplines for a more general management perspective.
Further details regarding curriculum, academic scheduling, and faculty can be found:
http://www.cox.smu.edu/web/full-time-mba/curriculum-and-faculty
Core Course Descriptions
Course descriptions from the Cox School of Business Graduate Catalog can be found here.
The new 2011-2012 catalog will be distributed to you once you arrive in August.
Transfer Credits and Course Waivers
In certain cases, and at entrance only, the Cox School may grant an incoming student with transfer credit
(up to 8 credit hours from an AACSB-accredited university) and/or a waiver of core courses (due to
professional certification, etc). Instructions on this process and the required forms can be found by
sending an email to mbainfo@cox.smu.edu. NOTE: You must still take the required 61 hours of course
credit and there will be no deduction in your tuition.
MBA Concentrations
The Cox MBA Program allows full-time students to choose up to two academic concentrations or
specializations. All MBA students are initially enrolled in the General Business concentration until they
submit their concentration declaration form. Below is a summary listing of the concentrations (with
applicable specializations noted underneath related concentrations) that will be available to the Class of
2013. Please note that this information is subject to change.

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Accounting (with comments from Mike
Mahoney, Class of 2011)
o Financial Statement Analysis
Finance (with comments from Stephen
Pester, Class of 2011)
o Alternative Assets
o Investments
o Corporate Finance
o Energy Finance
General Business



Information Technology and Operations
Management (ITOM)
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Marketing (with comments from Andrew
Casson, Class of 2011)
Management
Strategy and Entrepreneurship
Real Estate (with comments from Scott
Hoffheiser, Class of 2012)
American Airlines Global Leadership Program
In 2000, the Cox School of Business launched the American Airlines® Global Leadership Program, a
global immersion experience for students, partnering with over 100 leading businesses and government
organizations throughout Asia, India, and Europe. Unique to the Cox School, all full-time MBAs
participate – travel/accommodations are provided.
2011 AA GLP Itineraries
INDIA
ASIA A
Bangalore
Tokyo
Delhi
Seoul
Mumbai
Shanghai
EUROPE
London
Bratislava
Frankfurt
LATIN AMERICA
Buenos Aires
Rio de Janeiro
Sao Paulo
ASIA B
Ho Chi Minh City
Hong Kong
Shanghai
Preparing for your Trip
In the fall of the first-year you will be asked to submit
your choice of available regions in order of
preference. Working with students who also selected
your region, you begin a comprehensive study of the
culture, politics, and business’ of the various countries in the region. To supplement your studies, local
executives and experts share their experiences and insights about each region.
Traveling to your Region of Choice
At the end of the second semester and prior to your summer internship, your AAGLP group will travel to
the region for a 10-14 day immersion into global commerce and culture.
Meet face-to-face with
top-level executives from
international companies to
discuss policies and best
practices
Visit with government
officials and historical sites
that have contributed to the
very essence of each
country's culture.
Learn about doing
business in that region and
expand your perspectives
on the global economy.
To learn more about a GLP trip from TJ Hill, Class of 2011, click here.
Sharing the Experience
Upon returning, your team will develop and share comprehensive presentations focused on the unique
business challenges and opportunities in each of the countries you visited. Attended by a broad spectrum
of Dallas-based international business executives as well as Cox students, faculty, and staff, the AALGP
Symposium is open to the public. The AAGLP is mandatory and a critical capstone to the MBA
curriculum. Further information can be found at:
http://www.cox.smu.edu/web/full-time-mba/global-leadership-program
12
International Exchange Programs
As an exchange student you will acquire cultural knowledge first-hand, while living and studying in the
country of your choice. This experience, in conjunction with SMU’s curriculum and programs,
distinguishes the Cox graduate from other competitors in the job market.
This is a list of our partner schools:
Asia/Pacific Rim
Shanghai, China-- China Europe International Business School (CEIBS)
Shanghai, China -- Shanghai Jiao Tong University (Fall only)
Taiwan – National Taiwan University
Hong Kong -- Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)
Singapore -- Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
Calcutta, India – India Institute of Management
Melbourne, Australia -- Melbourne Business School
Latin America
Buenos Aires, Argentina -- Escuela de Dirección y Negocios de la Universidad Austral
México City -- Instituto Panamericano de Alta Dirección de Empresa (IPADE)
Europe
Antwerp, Belgium -- Center for Business Administration, University of Antwerp (UFSIA)
Copenhägen, Denmark -- Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
Manchester, England -- Manchester Business School (MBS), University of Manchester
Rouen, France -- ESC Rouen School of Management
Koblenz, Germany -- WHU/Otto Beisheim Graduate School of Management
Milan, Italy -- Bocconi University
http://www.cox.smu.edu/web/global-programs/mba-exchange-program
Applicant Criteria:
SMU's exchange agreements are typically for two students per location; therefore, we must assign
these spots on a competitive basis.
Students must:
Have a minimum 3.2 GPA at the end of their first year
 Have all core requirements complete
 Submit program application by deadline
Interview with the Assistant Dean, Office of Global Programs


For questions, please contact 214-768-2341 or abecerra@cox.smu.edu.
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Beyond the Classroom
Cox Associate Board Executive Mentor
Program
The opportunity to participate in the Cox Associate Board, an
executive mentoring program, is a unique advantage the Cox School
of Business offers its MBA students. Cited as one of the most
effective mentoring programs of its kind in the country by Business
Week, the Cox Associate Board program provides students “real
world” perspectives in the fast-paced and highly competitive business
marketplace.
The Board was conceptualized and founded in 1970 and has become
one of our most important corporate outreach initiatives. It provides
a select group of corporate and community leaders the opportunity to
participate in the continued development of the school and its
students. Mentors provide valuable advice, counsel, direction and
assistance through their close business network. The membership of
the Cox Associate Board is extremely diverse.
More than 275 executive mentors currently participate in the
program, representing national and global corporations as well as
entrepreneurial ventures from every major industry.
Over the first few weeks of the fall semester, students and mentors
come together to meet and discuss mutual interests at a series of
receptions known as “Meet & Greets.” Once the series of receptions
is complete, students may choose or “match” themselves with a
mentor for the academic year. The selection process is quick and
easy and is determined on a “first come, first served” basis.
Cox students are encouraged to make the most of these relationship
building and networking possibilities. The executives involved in the
program truly enjoy the satisfaction of helping to shape the careers of
tomorrow’s business leaders.
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Sample Listing of
Mentor Companies:
Accenture
American Airlines
7-Eleven
American Heart Association
AT&T
Bank of America
Bank of Texas
Blackrock Private Investors
Booz Allen Hamilton
Brinker International
Cadbury Schweppes
Capital One Bank
Comerica Bank – Texas
Deloitte Consulting
EDS
Five States Energy Company
Frito-Lay
Goldman Sachs
Hotels.com
IBM
JP Morgan
Match.com
Mercer Consulting
Merrill Lynch
Procter & Gamble
Sabre Holdings
Sara Lee
The Dallas Center for
Performing Arts
TXU
Yum Brands, Inc
Business Leadership Center
The Edwin L. Cox Business Leadership Center (BLC) helps students develop strong leadership skills and
practical applications that are fundamental in the world of business. While management education
traditionally focuses on classroom teachings, textbooks, and case studies, the BLC is designed to meet
today’s challenges by offering exceptional leadership development programs for MBA students.
Through the BLC, Cox MBA students learn important fundamentals that complement the curriculum at
the Cox School of Business. To learn more about the BLC from Landon Hawke, Class of 2012, click
here. In the past year, MBA Students have the opportunity to enroll in seminars that cover a wide range
of topics such as:
Accelerated
Learning and Risk
Taking
Brand Concepts &
Strategies
Coaching Skills
Communications as
a Strategic Business
Tool
Consulting
Fundamentals
Creating &
Sustaining a
Service Culture
Effectively
Negotiating M&A
Transactions
Entrepreneurial
Leadership
Heart-Centered
Leadership
Influence Strategies
Memory and Mind
Mapping
Milestone
Principles: the
Psychology of
Excellence
Principles in
Delivering
Customer Service
Loyalty
For many students, the BLC is a deciding factor in choosing the SMU Cox School of Business over other
programs since the BLC is unique among MBA programs. Historically, over 80% of Cox MBA students
actively participate in the BLC elective programs.
For a more complete listing of BLC courses offered in the past, please visit
http://www.cox.smu.edu/web/blc/blc
Programs offered through the BLC are developed and taught by leading industry professionals. They
represent highly advanced expertise from companies such as:
Accenture
Brinker
International
Capital Alliance
EDS
Imc2
Grant Thornton
Monarch Health
Sciences
Nortel Networks
Personnel
Decisions
7-Eleven
SBC
Communications
Texas Instruments
Student Ambassador & Mentor Contact Information
The Cox Ambassador Board is a group of student volunteers who work with the Admissions Office to
share their experiences with those interested in the program. Each admitted student will be matched with
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one of the Ambassadors to serve as a mentor through the spring and summer. You can reach any of the
Ambassadors below at their e-mail address: AskAnMBA@cox.smu.edu.
Name
Undergrad
Hometown
Former Employer
Nicole Abele
Bucknell University
Chicago, IL
Goldman Sachs
Travis Allen
University of Texas
Llano, TX
Charles Schwab
Lauren Basham
University of Texas
Katy, TX
Arthur J Gallagher & Co.
Poossen Bhattacharya
IIT - Kharagpur
Calcutta, India
Infosys Technologies
Ryan Buchman
University of Arkansas
Little Rock, AR
Golden Living Nursing Homes
Andrew Casson
UCLA
Plano, TX
C-Mark Corp.
Stephanie Chan
Florida State University
Centennial, CO
Lexington International
Cathleen Crews
Wake Forest University
Dallas, TX
TwoFour
Rebekah Cuellar
Houston Baptist University
Houston, TX
The Cartwright Law Firm
Roberto Flores
Mexico City, Mexico
Televisa
Chase Gardaphe
Instituto Tecnologico Autonomo de
Mexico
Texas A&M University
The Woodlands, TX
OneMartz, LLC
Alan Girard
Pepperdine University
Lakewood, NJ
The Hartford
Landon Hawke
UC San Diego
Houston, TX
Strata Realty
TJ Hill
University of Texas
Lubbock, TX
PlainsCapital Bank
Scott Hoffheiser
Trinity University
Houston, TX
ThoreenHale
Nathan Hughes
Kansas State University
Great Bend, KS
InSight Group
Chip Jelliffe
Texas Tech University
Euless, TX
Horace Mann Insurance
Elizabeth Kegley
Macalester College
Boulder, CO
Freelance Stage Manager
Jacque Kennedy
University of Oklahoma
Dallas, TX
e-Rewards Market Research
Supreeth Kini
Visveswariah Tech Univ.
Bangalore, India
Tata Consultancy Services
Erika Larson
Elon University
Harwood, MD
UBS
Taylor Leslie
University of Texas
San Antonio, TX
Ernst and Young
Albert Lo
University of Texas
Plano, TX
VI Technology
Alyssa McLaughlin
Oral Roberts University
Jacksonville, FL
Town North Bank
Matt Middleton
NC State University
Cary, NC
Morris Communications
Preya Mistry
University of Waterloo
Toronto, Canada
Sapient
Jimmy Ocker
University of Oklahoma
Dallas, TX
Quorum Business Solutions
Tony Simpson
Angelo State University
San Angelo, TX
Highland Capital Lending
Ware Smith
University of Virginia
Roanoke, VA
FindMeSpecials.com
Ryan Swaner
Baylor University
Axtell, TX
Sibley and Co.
http://www.cox.smu.edu/web/full-time-mba/cox-ambassadors
Student Organizations
Cox MBA student clubs and organizations offer you numerous opportunities to refine your leadership
skills while pursuing special interests. Clubs have networking events, speakers, trips and opportunities to
16
interact with others who are interested in similar topics as you. Below is a listing and description of the
student organizations at Cox and links to their websites if applicable.
Buy-Side Club
The Buy-Side Club educates and creates opportunities, networking and job oriented, for students
interested in a private equity, venture capital, hedge fund, or investment management career.
Consulting & Corporate Strategy Club (click here to learn more from a member)
The Consulting & Corporate Strategy Club aims to prepare members with case interview practice so they
can nail an interview, to network with organizations to create real consulting project opportunities and to
get members in front of the right people who make hiring decisions.
Cox Ambassadors
The Cox Ambassador Board’s mission is to assist the MBA admissions office in recruiting the next
exceptional class of future business leaders. They represent the Cox MBA program at various recruiting
events, and lead the planning and coordination of the Cox Sneak Preview Weekend.
Cox Christian Business Society
The Cox Christian Business Society has its primary interests in relationships, community service and
study. Beyond various social events, there is a service project and weekly Bible studies.
Cox for Community
The Cox for Community Club aims to bring awareness to students the importance of community
involvement and service. The club strives to build an alliance between the SMU Cox School of Business
and the Dallas business community.
Cox Wine Circle
The mission of the Cox Wine Circle is focused on promoting the appreciation for, and enjoyment of, fine
wine by providing both educational and social activities in a convivial environment.
Energy Club
The Cox Energy Club is focused on educating and preparing current graduate students for careers in the
Energy Industry (E&P, Power, Marketing, Banking, and Integrated Producers).
Finance Club
The Cox Finance Club provides educational and networking opportunities for club members through
events such as hosting professional development sessions, speaker events, informal networking events,
educational opportunities, and a formal networking event.
Golf Club
The Golf Club is another organization that aims to help students get together outside of school and
improve at a game that we all know is a basic of many business deals and networking opportunities. The
club has set up special deals with local courses to aid in the development of students’ games.
International Club
17
The International Club aims to enhance the professional, cultural and social experience of the
international Cox MBA Student to find the support they will need in business.
Joint Ventures Club
The Joint Ventures club seeks opportunities to involve the spouses and significant others of current Cox
students and interact with other students in a more informal setting while also getting more acquainted
with the Dallas business community.
Marketing Club
The Marketing Club is a community of professionals who share a strong interest in Marketing, with
career aspirations ranging from Brand Management to Consumer Insights to Consulting.
Operations & Technology Club (click here to learn more from a member)
The Operations & Technology Club will aid in helping students find job opportunities or seek advice
from seasoned professionals in IT or Operations Management.
Real Estate Club
The Real Estate Club hopes to expose members to current issues facing the real estate industry, engage
current professionals at prominent local firms, and enhance the educational experience with real-life
experiences.
Sports & Entertainment Club
The Sports & Entertainment Club is dedicated to enhancing both the knowledge and interaction for Cox
MBAs with industry professionals in sports, media, and entertainment.
Strategy & Entrepreneurship Club
The Strategy & Entrepreneurship Club aims to encourage and advance the entrepreneurial efforts of Cox
MBA's. The club is responsible for the SMU Business Plan Competition where students can create a
viable business venture and compete against others for prizes and awards.
Veterans In Business (click here to learn more from a member)
VIB is an association of veteran students and supporters of the veteran community, committed to
assisting each other in the transition from the military into a successful career in the private sector.
Women in Business
The Women in Business Organization strives to be a support network of friendships and resources for
women within the Cox MBA Program. This year, the WIB club will be essential in supporting the
National Association of Women MBAs (NAWMBA) conference to be held in September 2011. You can
find out more about the conference by visiting the NAWMBA site found here.
18
Helpful Thoughts from Current Students
Faculty Interaction
Due to the small class size, students have an opportunity to get to know their professors on a more
personal basis. The faculty is always willing to assist when needed. To learn more about working with
Cox faculty from Stephanie Chan, Class of 2012, click here.
Sydney Horne, MA/MBA 2011
Undergraduate: University of Rochester
MBA Concentration: MA/MBA
Previous Job: Alumni Relations Fellow at University of Rochester
"The faculty at Cox is very in tune with the student body and incredibly passionate
about the courses that they teach. Faculty always relates the concepts we learn in the
classroom back to the challenges that we will face in the working world, no matter
our specific concentration. They are always available outside of class, as they are
committed to our success with the material."
Teaching Methods
The Cox MBA is a combination of lecture, case-based and experiential classroom discussions.
Teamwork is a key part of this experience. Although you are assigned to a study group for your core
classes, you will have the opportunity to work with your classmates on a frequent basis in elective courses
as well.
Amy Cook, MBA 2011
Undergraduate: Vanderbilt University
MBA Concentration: Marketing
Previous Job: Selling Services Coordinator at Bergdorf Goodman
“Within a few short months, I felt at home at the Cox School of Business. I attribute
this to the faculty's commitment to providing a positive and rewarding experience for
my classmates and me. The professors are dynamic inside the classroom and
approachable outside the classroom, going above and beyond to make themselves
accessible to students.”
Networking with Fellow MBAs
Networking is nothing more than approaching someone you’ve never met, introducing yourself, and
starting a conversation. Remember that second-year students, Professional MBAs and Executive MBAs
are good networking contacts to have. By this fall, second-years will have completed summer internships
and can offer advice or contacts. The PMBA and EMBA students may work for the very companies to
which you’ll be applying for summer internships.
The Honor Code
19
The Honor Code at Cox is something for which we hold the utmost respect. We take it very seriously.
The integrity of the entire program lies in the conduct of students because it hinges on students’
responsible behavior.
VJ Chengappa, MBA 2011
Undergraduate: University of Michigan
MBA Concentration: Marketing
Previous Job: Marketing Coordinator at
Constructors & Associates
“At Cox, networking opportunities start from
day one. Speaker events, happy hours, meet
and greet, and mentors all present
opportunities for you to build your list of contacts. Make sure
these networking events get on your calendar early because it can
get overwhelming otherwise. Especially with classes to worry
about! And don’t forget that some of the best networking
opportunities are all around you – your classmates, PMBAs, and
EMBAs.”
Social Life
You will find yourself becoming fast friends with your Cox
classmates. MBA Happy Hours are held every Thursday night
(there are no classes on Fridays, in case you didn’t know). They
provide a great opportunity to relieve stress and connect with
classmates not in your section as well as second-year and
professional students. To learn more from a member of the Class
of 2011 Social Committee, Andrew Casson, click here.
Diversity
We believe that a diverse community helps stimulate the overall
education experience. You will have the opportunity during the
next two years to interact with classmates from a multitude of
backgrounds. This is one of the features that add value to a Cox
MBA.
20
“One of the toughest points in an MBA
candidate’s life is the few months
leading up to the first day of school.
After a short time at Cox, I knew it was
where I belonged. Since that time I
have become part of the Cox family.
Whether it’s a professor taking time
away from their teaching to give me
career advice, or the BLC allowing me
to attend a roundtable meeting with a
dynamic local leader, I know that
everyone at SMU truly knows who I am
and where I want to go. The best part
about it is that everyone within the Cox
family will do everything they can to
see you succeed in the MBA program
and throughout your career. There are
many schools that offer top-notch
academic classes comparable with Cox,
but very few arm you with your own
complete support staff.”
-Tony Simpson, MBA ‘12
MBA Career Management Center
The MBA Career Management Center (CMC) at the Cox School of Business congratulates you on your
admission to the Cox MBA Program. The decision to seek an MBA is a career driven decision. We look
forward to working with you to help you attain your ideal career path.
Pre-Orientation Requirements
Starting in June, each incoming student will receive information regarding requirements to be completed
for the CMC before the start of orientation. These requirements include several online self-assessments
as well as a sample resume. If you have further questions about these assignments once you receive the
information, please contact the CMC directly at careers@cox.smu.edu.
Your Career Path
Each event and resource that the CMC provides for you is created with the below plan in mind. The
actual timing of each stage will vary for each student.
Career
Planning




Preparing
Marketing
Materials
Job
Searching
Networking
Interviewing
Offer
Evaluation
Your partner in creating and executing your career search process
Pre-MBA
o Begin working with the CMC to get a jump-start on defining your goals
First-Year
o Career Teams provide personal attention to help you focus your goals
o Managing Your Career course and other on-campus resources such as student clubs aid in
the discovery process
o On-campus Career Fair held so you can interact with companies
Second Year
o Ongoing refinement to work toward post-MBA goals and create a strong professional
development foundation for the rest of your career
Contact Information
Location: Fincher Building Room 146
Phone: 214-768-3534
Email: careers@cox.smu.edu
Web: www.cmc.cox.smu.edu
21
Career Management Center Resources

Career Management Class: In your first and second year, you will cover a full range of career
management topics such as job search strategies, effective writing, interviewing skills,
researching companies and industries, salary negotiations and others.

CareerLeader™ Self-Assessment: Developed at the Harvard Business School, this assessment is
designed for people who are interested in a career in business. You can map your results to over
27 unique business careers, comparing your profile with those of happy and satisfied
professionals in each respective field.

Career Counseling: Advisors are available to meet with you individually to discuss your career
objectives, job search strategies, and resources available to you.

Resume Critiques: You will be required to write a resume that effectively communicates your
skills and experiences. Writing your resume is a critical element of your job search and you will
find that it is a process of continuous refinement and improvement.
Career Management Center Events

SMU Career Fair: This event brings together first and second year MBA candidates and
recruiting firms for full-time and internship opportunities.

Company Mock Interviews: Several of our strongest company relationships and Cox MBA
Alumni volunteer their time and interviewing expertise each year to evaluate the thoroughness of
Cox MBAs’ interview preparation and interviewing skills.

National MBA Career Fairs and Consortium Events: Cox is a participating member of the
National Society of Hispanic MBAs (NSHMBA), the National Black MBA Association
(NBMBAA), and the Reaching Out LGBT Organization. In 2011, the National Association of
Women MBA’s (NAWMBA) conference will be held in Dallas which will be a great opportunity
for all of our students to participate in the Career Fair associated with this conference.

Company Information Sessions: Many companies conduct general information sessions prior to
on-campus interviews. These are typically held in the early evenings and can provide you with
valuable information about companies’ cultures and values.

On-Campus Recruiting: On-campus recruiting offers a convenient means for companies to
select and interview students on-site at the Cox School. Companies will provide job opportunities
that will be posted on the CMC's recruiting software system. Students interested in specific jobs
will submit their resume for consideration. The companies will then pre-select students who they
want to interview, and schedule interviews using the interview suite located adjacent to the CMC.
Cox MBA Hiring Companies
Each year, Cox MBA students are hired for summer internships and post-MBA employment opportunities
with a wide variety of companies across the country and around the world. A sampling of those
22
companies is found below; please visit the Career Management Center website for a more comprehensive
listing.
7 – Eleven
Accenture
Alcon
American Airlines
American Express
Ancor Holdings
A.T. Kearney
AT&T
Bank of America
Bank of Texas
Bear Stearns
Bell Helicopter Textron
Belo Corporation
Blockbuster, Inc.
Boeing
CapGemini
Capital One
CB Richard Ellis
Celanese
Citi
Clark Consulting
Credit Suisse
Dean Foods
Dell Corporation
Deloitte
Dr. Pepper Snapple Group
EDS
EnCap Investments
Energy Future Holdings
Epsilon
Ernst & Young
Essilor
Fannie Mae
FDIC
FedEx
Frito-Lay
Frost & Sullivan
FTI Consulting
Goldman Sachs
HBK Investments
Hotels.com
Fannie Mae
FDIC
FedEx
Frito-Lay
Frost & Sullivan
FTI Consulting
Goldman Sachs
HBK Investments
Hotels.com
Hunt Power
IBM
Intel
Interstate Brand Corp.
J.C. Penney
Johnson & Johnson
Jones Lang Lasalle
JP Morgan Chase
Kellogg's
Kimberly-Clark
KPMG
Lincoln Properties
23
L'Oreal USA
Mary Kay, Inc.
Merrill Lynch
Methanex
McKinsey & Company
Murex
Nestle USA
Nokia
Nortel
OsteoMed
PepsiCo
Perot Systems
PricewaterhouseCoopers
Procter & Gamble
Prudential Capital
PRTM
Raytheon
Sabre Holdings
Sammons Corporation
Samsung
SAP America
Texas Instruments
The Container Store
The PNL Companies
The Walt Disney Company
Travelocity
Trinity Industries
UBS
United Way
Wachovia
Wells Fargo
Class of 2012 Student Profile
Average GMAT
GMAT Range (Middle 80%)
Average GPA
GPA Range (Middle 80%)
Average Years Work Experience
Average Age
International (Non – U.S. citizen)
Women
Minorities
643
580-710
3.22
2.71-3.69
4.2
27
23%
23%
13%
Undergraduate Degrees:
Business & Commerce
Engineering
Economics
Humanities
Social Sciences
Science
Art & Architecture
Mathematics
43%
23%
13%
8%
7%
3%
2%
1%
Class of 2010 Placement Statistics
Full-time Employment Stats:
Average Base Salary
Average Signing Bonus
$80,052
$16,577
http://www.cox.smu.edu/web/full-time-mba/employment-statistics
Compensation by Job Function
Marketing/Sales
$54,833
Other
$81,133
Consulting $93,235
General Management
*NA
Finance/Accounting
$77,283
24
Financing the MBA
General Financial Planning
It’s important to start thinking about how you plan to finance your MBA education and living expenses
for the next two years. The MBA Admissions Office awards merit scholarships only at the time of
admission and prior to the start of the fall term. On-campus sources of scholarship are limited –
especially after enrollment in the program. Please plan accordingly and do not anticipate receiving a
scholarship after your initial enrollment in the fall.
The MBA Program has a Financial Aid Advisor dedicated to
working with MBA students on financing their education
through federal and private loans.
International students: please note that you are required to
certify funding for the first year of the two-year program as you
complete paperwork to secure your student visa. However, we
strongly recommend you have a financial plan to support
(tuition, books and supplies, living expenses, etc.) yourself (and
dependents) for the two years you are enrolled in the program.
SMU Monthly Payment Plan
SMU offers convenient payment plans to allow you to pay for your tuition and fees in installments rather
than in one lump sum. To see the most recent payment plans, please visit
http://smu.edu/bursar/paymentoptions_new.asp
Graduate Assistantships
Each year, Cox awards a limited number of graduate assistantship positions to incoming MBA students.
Graduate assistants may be assigned to work with faculty
in an academic department or staff in an administrative
office. Assignments are based on an individual’s
For questions related to nonacademic and professional background. Students who
scholarship forms of funding or
have indicated on their application for admission that
financial aid including federal and
they would like consideration for merit-based scholarship
private loans and tuition payment
awards will also be considered for GA awards (typically
options, please contact Barbara
announced in late spring or early summer). Any
Waters at bwaters@smu.edu or 214questions regarding GA awards should be directed to
768-2371.
Patti Cudney.
For questions related to scholarship
awards or graduate assistantships,
Tuition & Fees, Living Expenses
please only contact Patti Cudney at
Tuition and fees are subject to change. You will receive
pcudney@cox.smu.edu
your billing statement along with specific deadline dates
during the summer. Tuition and fees are typically due in
early August.
Estimated Student Budget for
25
Academic Year 2011 - 2012 *
Tuition and Fees
Student Living Expenses
Books and Supplies
Transportation
Health Insurance
Other Expenses
TOTAL
$45,808
$13,900
$1,650
$1,400
$1,777
$1,200
$65,735
*Nine-month budget based on SMU estimates. Individual budgets may vary significantly. Laptop budget not included.
Financial Aid
The Financial Aid Department administers federal and private loans for the purpose of MBA School
enrollment. The following information explains our application process and briefly describes the types of
aid available to MBA students. International students are eligible for private loans only and must have a
credit-worthy cosigner who is a U. S. citizen.
How do I apply?
Go to www.pin.ed.gov and apply for a PIN number that will serve as your signature on the FAFSA and
other federal electronic processes. For priority consideration, FAFSA should be filed as soon as possible.
FAFSA information received after July 1, 2011 is subject to a delay in the awarding process.
Other Types of Financial Aid
Sources of Private Educational Loans for MBA students can be found online with links to the apply at
http://smu.edu/Financial_Aid/Loans.asp#Grad
Scholarship and Financial Aid Research
College-Scholarships.com
Collegenet
Fast Web Search
Grants for Individuals
The Scholarship Page
College Funds.com
Princeton Review
MBA.com
National Black MBA
Association
National Society of
Hispanic MBAs
www.college-scholarships.com/
www.collegenet.com/
www.fastweb.com
http://staff.lib.msu.edu/harris23/grants/3gradinf.htm
www.scholarship-page.com/links.shtml
www.collegefunds.net/
http://www.princetonreview.com/FinancialAidAdvice.aspx
http://www.mba.com/mba/whybschool/figuringoutyourfinances
www.nbmbaa.org
www.nshmba.org
26
International Students
Office
International Students
International Student Checklist
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
□
Submit $750 non-refundable tuition deposit and
confirmation form by the deadline listed on your
admissions letter.
Submit all documents needed to process I-20 request for
student visa to the MBA Office
o Copy of passport
o Original Financial documents
o Financial Certification Form
o Copy of spouse/dependent passport(s), if applicable
Request visa interview appointment
Check with your Embassy office regarding specific
immunizations needed to obtain your visa
After receiving I-20, go to visa interview appointment.
Secure housing in Dallas area.
Secure transportation to/from SMU.
Arrive in the U.S. by August 1, 2011.
Attend International Orientation at SMU (early August)
International Student Financial Aid
International students are eligible for private loans only and must
have a credit-worthy co-signer who is a U.S. citizen. International
students please note that you are required to certify funding for one
year only. However, we strongly recommend you have financially
planned to support (tuition, books and supplies, living expenses,
etc.) yourself (and dependents as applicable) for the two years you
are enrolled in the program. Additional funding in the form of loans
or scholarships is not available during the school year.
Relocation Information
When planning to relocate to Dallas, one of the first things to
consider is where to live.
27
214-768-4475
Website:
www.smu.edu/international
Immigration Information:
www.smu.edu/international/isss/
im_library.asp
SMU’s Office of International
Admissions and Relations
(known as the International
Office) assists and advises
international students on matters
concerning regulations of the
United States Citizenship and
Immigration Service (USCIS)
and the U.S. Department of
State. The Office provides
necessary visa documents for
accepted students and monitors
student’s visa status once these
individuals are at SMU. This
office is in charge of the
signature of your I-20 every 6
months.
Student Health Center
214-768-2141
Website:
www.smu.edu/healthcenter
The SMU Health Center
provides cost effective and
convenient ambulatory
healthcare and health education
services to full-time students.
They also offer health insurance
and immunization shots which
are required as a student at
SMU.
Virtually hundreds of reasonably priced apartments are located within a few miles of campus (see page
33); however, some students rent houses, duplexes or even purchase condominiums or homes. Graduate
students who wish to live on-campus may request a graduate housing application and contract by
contacting the SMU housing office at 214-768-2407 (www.smu.edu/housing). Housing for graduate
students is limited.
Furniture can be purchased online and delivered straight to your door. You can also purchase furniture at
many stores located throughout the area. Household necessities are found at grocery stores or
Target/Wal-Mart. If you do not have internet set up at your apartment, you are able to come to SMU and
use the wireless internet located throughout campus.
Advice from Current International Students
We try our best to match all incoming international students with current international students. But if
you were not matched as such and wish to correspond with a current international student, please send an
e-mail to askanmba@cox.smu.edu. Based on their experiences, some of our international students offer
you the following pieces of advice:

The Village Apartments are highly recommended for housing. It is a private apartment complex
close to the SMU campus and the campus shuttle has many stops in and near the complex. You can
find contact information for the Village and other apartment complexes in the Dallas section of the
Survival Guide or at www.thevillageapts.com

I think the Uptown section of Dallas is a nice place to live. There are multiple apartment complexes,
such as the Gables, Post, etc.

I suggest Amesbury Parc as a recommended housing option. The layout is not as pretty as that of the
Village, but the apartments themselves are excellent and are very affordable. It is a cheaper option to
that of the Village. Also a sizeable amount of international students from SMU stay there. The
campus shuttle is far more accessible than the Village and there are a number restaurants and stores
within walking distance.

Be sure to bring at least one nice business suit from your home country. You may find that both
prices and sizing of clothing in the US is different. To avoid possible problems finding an
appropriate suit, make sure to have one when you come
to Dallas. If you have questions about what is
appropriate, please contact the Admissions Team.
Do you still have
unanswered questions?
Contact the International
Office
214-768-4475 to schedule an
appointment or email
smuint@smu.edu
28
Dallas
Climate/Weather
The city of Dallas has a humid subtropical climate, though it is located in a region that also tends to
receive warm, dry winds from the north and west in the summer, bringing temperatures well over 100 °F
(38 °C) at times.
A couple of times each year, warm and humid air from the south overrides cold, dry air, leading to
freezing rain, which often causes major disruptions in the city if the roads and highways become slick.
Snowfall is usually seen 2–3 days out of the year for an annual average of 2.4 inches.
Facts and Figures
Population
• City of Dallas - 1,260,950
• Dallas County - 2,383,300
• DFW Metroplex - 6,242,800
City Statistics...
• 19th largest in US
• 3rd largest in Texas
Travel distance
• 35 miles East of Fort Worth
• 245 miles North/Northwest of Houston
• 300 miles North of Gulf of Mexico
Dallas Arts District
• Largest urban district in US
• Includes: Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, Crow Collection of Asian Art,
Morton H Meyerson Symphony Center, and AT&T Performing Arts Center
Fortune 500
• 24 headquarters in the DFW area (as of May 2010)
• Ranked 4th among metropolitan areas for Fortune 500 companies
For sources and more Dallas Facts and Figures visit: www.visitdallas.com
For information on the Fortune 500 companies located in DFW visit:
http://www.dallaschamber.org/files/TheBusinessCommunity_Fortune500.pdf
29
Things to Do
Beyond SMU, there are lots of other things to do in the DFW metroplex. From art to outdoors, civic
associations, professional sports and more! Here is a partial listing of websites and phone numbers to
find out more:
GENERAL INFO
Dallas City Hall
Dallas Visitors Bureau
Guide Live
Dallas Observer
D Magazine
www.dallascityhall.com
www.dallascvb.com/visitors/
www.guidelive.com
www.dallasobserver.com
www.dmagazine.com
EVENTS
American Airlines Center
Dallas Theater Center
Texas State Fair
Morton Meyerson Symphony Center
www.americanairlinescenter.com
www.dallastheatercenter.org
www.bigtex.com
www.meyersonsymphonycenter.com
MUSEUMS
Museum of Nature & Science
Dallas Museum of Art
JFK-The Sixth Floor Museum
http://www.natureandscience.org/
www.dm-art.org
www.jfk.org
PARKS & OUTDOORS
Dallas Arboretum & Botanical
Dallas Zoo
White Rock Lake
Dallas World Aquarium
www.dallasarboretum.org
www.dallas-zoo.org
www.whiterocklake.org/
www.dwazoo.com
SPORTS
Dallas Cowboys (NFL)
Dallas Mavericks (NBA)
Dallas Stars (NHL)
Texas Rangers (MLB)
FC Dallas (MLS)
www.dallascowboys.com
www.nba.com/mavericks
www.dallasstars.com
www.texasrangers.com
www.fcdallas.com/
30
Housing
The majority of Cox MBA students live within 5 miles of campus. The most common areas for students
to live are the following: Devonshire, “M” Streets, North Uptown, Oaklawn Area, The Village and
Uptown. This map shows the location and a brief description of these areas.
There are many different services you can use to help find a place to live in Dallas. One of the best is the
Dallas Regional Chamber. They have everything from maps to links and suggestions to help you find
what you’re looking for: www.dallaschamber.org
If you’re looking for a house or condo for purchase, you can work with any realtor. The MBA office has
had students work with these realtors in the past:
Condos: Nan Hendrix, 214-212-0515, Apartment Premier, nan@apartmentpremier.com
Homes: Laurie Murdoch, 214-507-5200, StarCrest Realty, lj_murdoch@yahoo.com
If you are looking for an apartment, try some of the following links to start getting help:
Apartment Name
AMLI Apartments
Amesbury Parc
Post Properties
Shelby Apartments
The Gables
The Village Apartments
The Carlyle
Location
Multiple in Dallas
1 mile from SMU
Multiple in Dallas
½ mile from SMU
Multiple in Dallas
2 miles from SMU
1 mile from SMU
Useful websites
Website
www.amli.com
www.amesburyparc.com
www.postproperties.com
www.theshelbydallas.com
www.gables.com
www.thevillageapts.com
www.carlyleapartments.com
Free Locator Services
dallas.craigslist.org
U Move Free
www.umovefree.com
www.rent.com
Apartment Locators
www.apartmentlocators.com
www.apartments.com
Ace Apartment Locators
www.aceaptlocators.com
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Getting Settled - Once You Have Found A Place
If you’re moving to Dallas, you will need to hook-up your various utilities. While your landlord or
apartment complex should provide you with the most detailed and pertinent information about this, here
is a partial listing of various utility company phone numbers by function:
Phone/Cable/Internet (Bundled Package):
AT&T U-Verse
Comcast
Time Warner
Verizon
www.att.com/U-verse
www.comcast.com
www.timewarnercable.com
www.verizon.com
Cable & Satellite Only:
Time Warner Cable
DirecTV
DishNetwork
972-742-5892
866-505-2937
1-800-333-3474
Internet Only:
Time Warner Cable
AT&T U-Verse
www.timewarnercable.com
www.att.com/U-verse
Cell Phones:
AT&T Wireless
Sprint
Verizon
Metro PCS
www.wireless.att.com
www.sprint.com
www.verizonwireless.com
www.metropcs.com
Electricity/Gas:
In Texas, you have your choice of energy company, so you can shop around for the best price and have
that company turn on your electricity.
TXU Electric/Gas
www.txu.com
Texas Electric Choice
www.powertochoose.com
Atmos Energy
www.atmosenergy.com
Reliant Energy
www.reliantenergy.com
Green Mountain Energy
www.greenmountain.com
Driver’s License:
www.txdps.state.tx.us/administration/driver_licensing_control/dlindex.htm
International students interested in acquiring a driver’s license should view the information listed on the
International Office website located here.
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Resource Guide
Banks near campus: View a Google map with locations here.
Bank of Texas
Park Cities Bank
Bank Of America*
Legacy Bank of Texas
Chase Bank
BBVA Compass Bank
Wells Fargo*
6215 Hillcrest Ave
6829 Hillcrest Ave
6901 Hillcrest Ave
7031 Snider Plaza
6517 Hillcrest Ave
6501 Hillcrest Ave
6403 Hillcrest Ave
214-525-5000
214-378-3011
214-987-3658
972-461-4870
214-360-3170
214-346-6141
800-869-3557
*Bank of America and Wells Fargo do not require a Social Security Number to open an account.
Churches:
For listing of places of worship near SMU visit www.smu.edu/chaplain/placesofworship.asp
Dry Cleaners: View a Google map with more locations here.
Avon Cleaners-Hillcrest
Johnson Cleaners
Swiss Cleaners & Laundry
6301 Hillcrest Ave
3407 McFarlin Blvd
3030 Mockingbird Lane
214-521-9927
214-521-2500
214-987-0665
Hughes-Trigg Student Center
Hughes-Trigg Student Center
Hughes-Trigg Student Center
Hughes-Trigg Student Center
Umphrey-Lee Center
Cox School of Business
Lower Level
Lower Level
Main Level
Main Level
Lower Level
Atrium
Food - Places to eat at SMU:
Subway
Chick-fil-A
The Market (including Montague’s Deli)
Java City
Umphrey-Lee Dining Hall
Einstein’s Bagels
Food - Places to eat near SMU: View a Google map with more locations here.
La Madeleine French Bakery
New York Sub
Cafe Express
Peggy Sue BBQ
Bubba’s Cooks Country
Jimmy John’s
Pizza Hut
3072 Mockingbird Lane
3411 Asbury St
5307 E Mockingbird Lane # 150
3404 Rankin St
6617 Hillcrest Ave
6411 Hillcrest Ave.
6409 Hillcrest Ave
214-696-0800
214-522-1070
214-841-9444
214-987-9188
214-373-6527
214-526-4782
214-520-1515
5665 East Mockingbird Lane
5809 E. Lovers Lane
7000 Snider Plaza
5750 E. Lovers Lane
214-826-2901
214-750-3200
214-346-4580
214-234-7000
8200 Walnut Hill Lane
214-345-6789
Grocery Stores:
Kroger Food Stores
Tom Thumb
Tom Thumb
Central Market
Hospitals:
Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas
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Baylor University Medical Center
Parkland Memorial Hospital
3500 Gaston Avenue
5201 Harry Hines Boulevard
214-820-0111
214-590-8000
6000 Airline
5910 North Central Expressway
5706 East Mockingbird Lane
214-768-3374
214-891-6600
214-827-8700
5321 East Mockingbird Lane
11170 N. Central Expressway
8687 N. Central Expressway
214-841-4700
214-828-6000
214-265-7138
SMU Campus
3001 Lovers Lane
3821 University Boulevard
3412 Binkley Avenue
214-768-2278
214-363-2242
214-525-6500
214-521-5514
5342 E. Mockingbird
4114 N. Central Expressway
2320 N. Central Expressway
214-828-9542
214-823-8584
214-828-1260
7700 West Northwest Hwy
2417 N Haskell Ave
6419 Skillman St
13739 N Central Expressway
8687 N Central Expressway
8282 Park Lane
LBJ (635) and Dallas Pkwy
214-373-3131
214-826-0331
214-348-0240
972-437-9146
214-363-7441
214-373-3058
972-702-7100
Hughes-Trigg Student Center
6929 Snider Plaza
4516 Lovers Lane
Main Level
214-373-4105
214-739-2300
Health Clubs:
Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports
Premier Athletic Club
24 Hour Fitness
Movie Theatres:
Angelika Film Center & Café
Studio Movie Grill – Dallas/Royal
AMC Northpark
Schools:
SMU Child Day Care & Preschool
Christ Lutheran Child Development
Highland Park Presbyterian Church
The Community School
Storage:
Public Storage
Storage USA
Private Mini Storage
Super Stores & Shopping Malls:
Container Store
Target – City Place
SuperTarget
Wal-Mart
North Park Center
Sam’s Club (Membership Required)
Galleria
Shipping and Post Offices:
US Postal Service
Park Cities Postal Center
Mail Express
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Southern Methodist University
Student Health Insurance
SMU has implemented a mandatory health insurance
requirement that affects:
· Domestic students enrolled in 9+ credit hours
· International students enrolled in 1+ credit hours
This means that all full-time MBA students, including dualdegree students, are required to have health insurance.
Students are required to provide documentation of insurance
coverage or to enroll in the Student Health Insurance Plan.
You need to complete the waiver request process or the
student health insurance will be automatically requested and your student account
will be billed.
Detailed information regarding Health Insurance and waiving out can be found at
the Student Health Center
http://smu.edu/healthcenter/medical/med_insurance.asp or by calling 214-7682141.
Bookstore
The SMU Bookstore/Barnes & Noble is located on Mockingbird Lane. Bring
your course schedule with you because books are organized according to the
class and section number (labels will denote whether the book is required or
recommended). Don’t worry about purchasing books prior to orientation week.
There will be ample time to do so. We also suggest you shop around; books can
be purchased at other bookstores. Another cheaper option is to order textbooks
online (i.e. www.amazon.com). Finally, second-year students are often willing to
sell their used books cheaper than the bookstores. We will post these books on
the Facebook message board if any students are selling books.
Business Cards
The SMU Cox School has authorized a template for Cox MBA business cards at
Images, the campus printing and copy center. You will learn how to order your
own cards during Orientation. Most students who order cards use them for
networking purposes.
Printing Services
The Business Information Center (BIC) located in the Cox School has a copy and
fax machine for student use. They also have printing capabilities. You must pay
for these services using Pony Cash that you add to your Pony Express (ID) card
or by purchasing a copy card at the BIC.
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Parking
Binkley Garage (#53 on the campus map) offers the closest parking to the Cox School of Business.
Prior to the Sneak Preview Weekend and Orientation events, you will be e-mailed a parking permit to
place on your dashboard so that you are not given a ticket on campus. This permit is good for the Binkley
Garage only.
The Moody Garage is also close to the Cox School of Business (#94 on the campus map) and can be
utilized if Binkley is full.
The SMU Park N’ Pony office provides the SMU Community with an array of parking services. The
office issues parking permits, which is required for parking on campus, and processes all parking citation
appeals. The office is located in the main lobby of the Expressway Tower, suite 101. You can view the
SMU parking map here.
SMU ID Card
Your photo will be taken during Orientation and an ID card will be automatically made for you. Your ID
card is used for things such as dining on campus; SMU sports tickets, checking out books from the
library, and for getting access into the Dedman Center for a workout. You can learn more about the Pony
Express Office, which supplies the cards, at http://ponyexpress.smu.edu.
Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports
Students have access to one of the premier fitness facilities in Dallas. Recreational facilities include a
state-of-the-art weight room/fitness facility; racquetball, basketball, badminton, volleyball and sand
volleyball courts; exercise studios; indoor soccer area; 25 meter indoor pool; outdoor fountain pool;
indoor jogging track; and climbing center with rock-climbing wall. Students who wish to use the
Dedman Center prior to the start of classes can do so by visiting the center and paying a subsidized
summer fee. Visit their website here: http://smu.edu/recsports/dedman/default.asp
SMU Athletics
Full-time students have the option to purchase a sports package and if so, can receive admission to all
sports events for free the day of the game. The Cox School of Business hosts a tailgate before each home
football game on Bishop Boulevard with food/drink sponsored for students.
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