MBAPrepCoach wrote:
Hi, so sorry for the late response here, just missed this and going through my notification inbox.
In this question, you want to pick adjacent programs to some degree: similar ranking and like IMD, leadership development oriented. So maybe another school that has a well-developed personal deep dive course(s.) Or has an industry focus more so than consulting or finance.
This speaks to the core of what differentiates IMD. I do think it might be a mistake to put down INSEAD here because if you have the right stats, they know they will probably not "win" you if they choose you. Also, INSEAD is really quite a different program from IMD and so this will undermine the sincerity of your application.
They want to know: if I invite you to my party will you come, or will you make an excuse last minute and I will have to scramble to invite more guests? IMD wants to pick the "best" applicants but also the applicant that think IMD is the best as well; their first choice.
I recommend everyone do a fair bit of research on IMD to get clear on what IMDs value proposition is specifically for them and their career; probably should be some aspect of personal development, introspection, and leadership. And how industry focus. How they would benefit from a simulation-type learning environment.
A good place to start would be the interview with the Dean by Touch MBA.
farrell, very interesting advice.. Actually I was one (or one of ) very applicant who has put INSEAD in this essay question.
Although, it turned out not to 'affect' my candidacy as I was accepted, I completed share your main point of view - the key is to understand the uniqueness/differentiator of IMD.
And I strongly believe that, visit the campus + talk to alum is a super effective way to quick gauge the 'fit' of IMD in particular, much more than other schools such as INSEAD or some M7 ones. (I guess that's a form of 'diversity' or not enough of cohesion towards the school's "culture")
Personally I really liked the personalisation aspect, the slightly mature ( or older) student body and their flagship leadership program, and believed I've showed my honesty through this essay as well as the AC. (Yes I got quite direct and harsh follow-up questions on this INSEAD vs IMD choice during AC too)
Hope that might help others,