Overrepresented applicants, if you are applying EA - which you SHOULD - I would strongly recommend you start working on this application ASAP, especially if you have travel or other obligations that will keep you from it between now and 9/3.
There are so many different areas to cover in the essays - and the fact that the essays are short is more of a hindrance than a help. Review the short answers in the application and make time for those as well.
Also, you have to write your essay for the Battenburg scholarship to be submitted on the deadline date. APPLYING FOR A BATTEN SCHOLARSHIP
Prospective students interested in being considered for these scholarships must submit a supplemental essay as part of the application for Darden's two-year, full-time MBA program. Applicants should develop a 500-word essay that addresses how they meet the criteria of the program, how they would contribute to the Darden community and how the award would further their career ambitions in entrepreneurship, innovation or technology.If you are moved on to the interview, they do what is called "your story" which is basically you narrating your life story for 20 minutes. This requires a great deal of deep thought, introspection and contemplation. But if you do it well, you stand out.
ITS A TON OF WORK. It requires research. underestimate it at your peril. I do feel it is a worthwhile effort however, especially if you are looking at consulting. I really believe in the case method for hopeful consultants.