closeEvents & Promotions
| Last visit was: 25 Apr 2024, 21:27 |
It is currently 25 Apr 2024, 21:27 |
Customized
for You
Track
Your Progress
Practice
Pays
02:00 PM EDT
-03:00 PM EDT
03:00 PM PDT
-04:00 PM PDT
10:00 AM EDT
-10:30 AM EDT
10:00 AM PDT
-11:00 AM PDT
07:00 PM PDT
-08:00 PM PDT
08:00 AM EDT
-09:00 AM EDT
10:00 AM PDT
-12:00 PM PDT
28 Jun 2022, 07:01
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Booth MBA Essay Tips for the Class of 2025 |
 The University of Chicago Booth School of Business ranks as a top choice school for many MBA students. Chicago Booth has a tradition of intellectual inquiry, non-conformity, and innovation. Along with solid academics, Chicago will be looking for leadership and team-building skills and community involvement. Review our Booth MBA essay tips to strengthen your application. Booth MBA Essay Tips for 2022-2023 This set of essays focuses on both your career goals and your personality. The second essay is about your interests. Also, note that Chicago is setting a word minimum for the required essay responses, while most schools list a maximum. Therefore Chicago Booth is asking you to be thoughtful in your responses to these MBA essays and make sure you have enough space to answer the question. Your first Booth MBA essay tip is to do as much school research as possible on Chicago Booth. First, attend virtual or in-person events if possible. Speak to alumni. Also, read the admissions blog. Visit campus if possible for you. In conclusion, do what you can to experience the community for yourself before starting your application. This research will be invaluable as you set pen to paper for the Booth MBA essays. The Chicago MBA admissions committee can see your academic skills from your GPA/GMAT, transcripts, and other fixed data points. You should cover your personal qualities, leadership, and career goals in these essays. Were these Booth MBA essay tips helpful? Contact Stacy Blackman Consulting for more with a free consultation on your MBA plans. Essay Questions Essay One: How will the Booth MBA help you achieve your immediate and long-term post-MBA career goals? (250-word minimum) This Chicago Booth career goals essay is the ideal way to describe your track record of success. Also, you can show that you have realistic expectations for your Booth MBA. For example, while career goals should be aspirational, they should also be possible. Think about what you have done so far in your career. What have you learned? How can you use your experiences to inform your future goals? Then, think about how a Booth MBA can fill in any gaps. What classes will you take? Professors that can help you advance your goals? How will you engage with clubs and peers? This question asks for both short and long-term goals, so keep your long-term path in mind as you answer. Ideally, your short-term goal job leads directly into your long-term goal position, and an MBA education is necessary for both paths. Examples from your prior roles will support achieving your goals with the required education and experience. Finally, the essay asks why Booth is the right place for you to pursue your MBA. Make sure to learn all you can about Booth, specifically. Thorough research into your career path and the options at Booth will allow you to answer this question fully and with conviction. With COVID-19 restrictions now lifted, it will be much easier to get a comprehensive feeling of Booth than in recent cycles. But virtual options like blogs and videos and speaking with current students and alumni are still available and can help you, too.  Essay Two: An MBA is as much about personal growth as it is about professional development. In addition to sharing your experience and goals in terms of career, we’d like to learn more about you outside of the office. Use this opportunity to tell us something about who you are. (250-word minimum) Chicago Booth is looking for self-aware leaders with a sense of purpose. Therefore, Booth wants to understand your personal life. Are you someone who embraces personal growth? And what is your definition of purpose? To focus this essay, consider using stories about your life. Have you done something in a volunteer capacity that shows who you are? Or, does your cultural background have an impact on your personality? What experiences have made an impact on you? For example, one of our clients used a personal story about a crisis in her family to explain how she prioritizes relationships. That aspect of her personality led her to be a particularly effective leader at work and volunteer activities. Think about a similar story you may have. After you tell the story, reflect on the meaning. How did these experiences help you grow as a person? And, what does that tell you about your capacity for growth at Booth? This Booth MBA essay should communicate who you are and what motivates you. Overall, your goal with both essays is to give the admissions committee a holistic sense of your potential.  Optional Essay: Is there any unclear information in your application that needs further explanation? (300-word maximum) This optional essay is flexible, allowing you to provide as much information as you need. Consider writing this essay if you have any areas in your profile that require further explanation. Have you had academic issues or gaps in work experience? Then this is the ideal place to add more detail. Because the essay is open-ended, you can also use it to add any additional information. Think about what you wanted to add to your application. Perhaps you have a compelling personal story that didn’t fit in the other essays. If it helps the admissions committee understand you better, it’s worth telling. Also, you might have a strong leadership story or a meaningful extracurricular to add context to your MBA application. Reapplicant Essay: Upon reflection, how has your perspective regarding your future, Chicago Booth, and/or getting an MBA changed since the time of your last application? (Maximum 300 words.) This is an interesting re-applicant question. Because, instead of asking how your candidacy has improved, Booth asks how your perspective has changed. Improvements such as better test scores, a promotion, or a new job would still be helpful information. However, the focus is to reflect on yourself and your goals since you applied to Booth. When writing this essay, consider what has changed since your last application. For example, have you learned more about your career path, formed new relationships, or changed your career goals? Also, this is an ideal essay to demonstrate self-awareness and leadership qualities. Another essential angle is communicating a realistic sense of how the Booth MBA fits into your future professional plans. For more information on applying to Booth, visit the Chicago Booth admissions website. The post Tuesday Tips: Booth MBA Essay Tips for the Class of 2025 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
28 Jun 2022, 07:01
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Kellogg MBA Essay Tips 2022-2023 |
 If you are getting ready to apply to Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management this year, these Kellogg MBA essay tips will help you prepare to knock it out of the park. Is Kellogg the right fit for you? The Kellogg School is a close-knit community. It values a diverse community and philanthropy. Our insiders tell us that candidates who show the right combination of high-impact leadership and humility demonstrate “Kellogg DNA.” For these Kellogg MBA essay tips, do your research. For example, what are the programs, activities, clubs, and classes you are most excited about? While you are talking to students and alumni, look for ways you will contribute to the Kellogg MBA community. Advice from One of SBC’s Resident Kellogg Experts Caryn Altman previously served as an admissions officer at Kellogg and also holds an MBA from the school. She is a tenured consultant on our SBC team. For these Kellogg MBA essay tips, Caryn describes the importance of “unique points of difference” throughout your entire application—essays, resume, interview, etc. It can be challenging to distinguish yourself from other applicants of similar backgrounds. “This is especially the case for those coming from oversubscribed professional backgrounds such as consulting and banking, along with oversubscribed populations from particular areas of the world,” Caryn notes. See Stacy Blackman Consulting’s Kellogg MBA essay tips below for each Full-Time MBA option Kellogg offers.  Kellogg MBA essays required of all applicants: Essay One: Kellogg’s purpose is to educate, equip and inspire brave leaders who create lasting value. Provide a recent example where you have demonstrated leadership and created value. What challenges did you face and what did you learn? (450 words) This essay focuses on leadership using a behavioral essay framework (the clue is “provide a recent example…”). Details about exactly what you did, said, and learned show how you learn from experience. “Creating lasting value” is another key to this essay. Think about what you have done that endures. As you structure the essay, spend some time setting up the background of the story. Then use most of the space to describe what you did, thought, felt, and how you behaved. Also, use details to entice the reader and set yourself apart. A few well-placed specifics will add color without adding length to these Kellogg MBA essays. These Kellogg MBA essay tips give you options, as long as you demonstrated leadership. For example, it might be a time that everything went smoothly. Maybe you learned how to work with a group or inspire people to action. On the other hand, it could be a challenging situation where you learned what not to do! Don’t be nervous about showing weakness. As long as your story demonstrates that you have left your mark on the organization. If you choose a challenging situation, learning is important. In addition, show you do learn from experience. Every leader has to learn and develop. Therefore, willingness to be open to feedback and improve will be an asset. Do not neglect teamwork, which is a core value of Kellogg’s culture. Your leadership experience is likely part of a team at work or in an extracurricular activity. And, collaboration demonstrates maturity and social skills.  Essay Two: Values are what guide you in your life and work. What values are important to you and how have they influenced you? (450 words) This essay question is a hybrid of a classic career goals essay and a personal essay. Kellogg is interested in candidates who can integrate their values into their personal and professional goals. How have your values directed your actions in work and life? Consider your values related to your desire to attend Kellogg. Therefore, the story you tell provides insight into your decision to pursue an MBA. Because this isn’t a question about your entire work and life, choose only one or two main experiences to share. As you discuss how your values have guided you, specific examples are key. For example, if you have a value of driving excellence, and that has led you to a consulting career where you help organizations become more efficient and achieve their goals. Or, your core value may be helping others, and you have chosen a career that provides the ability for you to give back to your community or lead a group of people. The Video Essay The Kellogg admissions team advises the following in regards to the video essay: We’ve read your essays, we’ve read your resume — now we want you to bring all that to life in a video. Show us the person behind all those carefully crafted words. The video will be comprised of three questions, each designed to help you showcase your personality and share some of the experiences that brought you here today. Video essay 1: Please introduce yourself to the admissions committee. Read specific advice for how best to prepare for the video essay here. Watching a video essay gives the admissions committee a sense of who you are. Therefore, the Kellogg admissions committee advises: “Be yourself. We don’t want scripted answers — we want to get to know you and learn something new. Please do not try to reuse an example from an essay that might, in some roundabout way, answer the video essay question asked. We already read that essay, so why tell us that story again?” First, prepare as if you would for an interview. Draft the topics you want to cover and practice your presentation. Then, writing some bullet points down in advance will help you focus as you answer the questions. Kellogg’s video essays should reveal your personality. Preparation will help you be comfortable and be yourself when you are recording the video. That said, it’s essential not to sound as if you are “acting.” Kellogg allows you to practice the video format a few times with practice questions before your official video. Also, it would be useful to do a few rounds of practice in front of the camera to get comfortable. The first video essay question asks you to introduce yourself to the admissions committee. Therefore, use this question to tell them something new. Do you have an interesting background? A quirky hobby? Or an important relationship? Think about something memorable and unique you can describe here.  Video essay 2: What path are you interested in pursuing, how will you get there, and why is this program right for you? Video essay two focuses on your professional path. To record the best video, you want to be excited. Think about the aspects of your career path that engage you, and express that excitement to the admissions committee. It is worth practicing the story in front of a friend or family member. The goal is to engage the audience without reciting your resume. And, if you can tell a personal story about what you have learned about Kellogg that answers the “why Kellogg.” Video essay question #3: This question will be based on a challenge you’ve faced and what you’ve learned from it. Challenges are part of every person’s life, and Kellogg wants to know what you have personally faced. As a result, this video essay may be emotional for you. Be sincere in your communication and honest about the challenge. However, remain positive. Ideally you were able to control your emotions and channel them into action. Kellogg is looking to see how you manage yourself.  Certain applicants will respond to additional questions: 1Y applicants: Please discuss your post-MBA career goal, the current experience you will leverage to support the transition, and the Kellogg 1Y opportunities that will help you reach this goal. (250 words) The Kellogg One Year Full Time MBA is designed for applicants with a strong business background. For example, if you majored in business or economics and worked in finance and consulting, you may not need the core courses of the first year. Therefore, this essay should show you can accomplish your goals with only one year at Kellogg. MBAi applicants: The Kellogg McCormick MBAi program is designed to train the next generation of leaders who can help businesses deliver successful outcomes through AI-driven technology. This requires leaders who have both strong technical and business skills; many firms struggle to find leaders with these skills. Tell us about your firsthand experience with this disconnect between business and technology and how MBAi will prepare you to successfully lead businesses at the intersection. (450 words) This Kellogg Full-Time MBA program is a joint degree with McCormick. This program prepares MBA students for careers in tech operations, analytics, and innovation leadership roles. The ideal candidate has a technical degree or experience in a technical role like product management, software engineer, etc. To answer this essay question, focus on an experience you have had at work or school. Examples show the need for this experience. For instance, you may have worked on an innovation with no revenue-generating potential. Or, you led the technical implementation of a product that had a poor user interface. As a leader with tech and business skills, you could bridge those gaps. JD-MBA applicants: Please discuss your post-JD-MBA career goals and why the JD-MBA Program is the right program to help you reach those goals. (250 words) Doing your research on Kellogg MBA’s academics and resources will help you answer the question about why you need a dual degree to achieve your goals. The JD-MBA at Kellogg is a competitive admissions process. As a result, it requires a clear reason for both degrees. Consider the unique attributes of the Kellogg JD-MBA program as compared to other programs. Also, describe why you (specifically) need both a JD and an MBA to achieve your career goals. MMM applicants: The five core values of the MMM Program are curiosity, creativity, empathy, open-mindedness, and a learning mindset. Describe a situation in which you demonstrated one of these values. Why is this value an important part of the MMM experience for you? (250 words) Continuing the theme of “values” from the required essay, candidates for the MMM degree should reflect the intent of the program. Also, Kellogg is looking for design thinkers for this program. So, demonstrate you have curiosity, empathy, open-mindedness, and a learning mindset. Those characteristics show you are ready for the MMM program. This is a behavioral essay question (“Describe a situation…”). Therefore, show the reader how you felt, acted, and made decisions.  Reapplicants: Since your previous application, what steps have you taken to strengthen your candidacy? (250 words) Provide tangible evidence that you have improved your candidacy in this answer. Some visible improvements could be a higher GMAT score. Also, grades from any new quantitative classes you took. In addition, you could describe a promotion at work or new volunteer activities. Another area could be increased responsibility at work or in your extracurriculars. Or, discuss how your career goals have changed. Finally, you could focus on how you have refined your personal goals. All applicants have the opportunity to provide explanations or clarification in Additional Information. Use this section if you think the person reviewing your application might have a few questions about one or more of your responses. This could include: • Unexplained gaps in work experience • Academic, GMAT, or GRE performance • Extenuating circumstances that we should be aware of when reviewing your application This is the place to address any areas of concern. Strike an upbeat tone and avoid excuses. Also, explain your issue clearly and focus on the correction for the problem. For example, for a disciplinary matter, describe that you learned and improved. You should explain any low GPA issues here. For example, explain a grade of C or below on your transcript. And, the admissions committee will want to know it is an outlier. For example, explain how you improved later in your college career. Or, how you have proved yourself at work. Another option is to take classes post-college with improved grades. *** Need even more Kellogg MBA essay tips and advice? Contact Stacy Blackman Consulting for a free analysis of your candidacy. For more details on the application process, visit the Kellogg MBA Admissions website. The post Tuesday Tips: Kellogg MBA Essay Tips 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
29 Jun 2022, 05:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: MIT Sloan Cover Letter, Application Requirements for 2022-2023 |
 The MIT Sloan School of Management has published the application requirements for the 2022-2023 season. Once again, candidates must submit a cover letter rather than a traditional MBA essay. MIT Sloan Cover Letter and Application Requirements Here’s how each component is explained on the MIT Sloan admissions site: Cover Letter MIT Sloan seeks students whose personal characteristics demonstrate that they will make the most of the incredible opportunities at MIT, both academic and non-academic. We are on a quest to find those whose presence will enhance the experience of other students. We seek thoughtful leaders with exceptional intellectual abilities and the drive and determination to put their stamp on the world. We welcome people who are independent, authentic, and fearlessly creative — true doers. We want people who can redefine solutions to conventional problems, and strive to preempt unconventional dilemmas with cutting-edge ideas. We demand integrity and respect passion. Taking the above into consideration, please submit a cover letter seeking a place in the MIT Sloan MBA program. Your letter should conform to a standard business correspondence, include one or more professional examples that illustrate why you meet the desired criteria above, and be addressed to the Admissions Committee (300 words or fewer, excluding address and salutation). Resume Please submit a one-page resume. This will help us easily track your academic and career path. Try to focus on your work results, not just your title or job description. Here are some pointers on formatting:
Introduce yourself to your future classmates. Here’s your chance to put a face with a name, let your personality shine through, be conversational, be yourself. We can’t wait to meet you! Videos should adhere to the following guidelines:
Note: While we ask you to introduce yourself to your future classmates in this video, the video will not be shared and is for use in the application process only. Additional requirements beyond the MIT Sloan Cover Letter and Video Applicants must submit one letter of recommendation and two additional references. Also, candidates need to upload an organizational chart that outlines the internal structure of their department and company. This will help the adcom better understand your current role and the impact that you have on your team and department. *** The MIT Sloan MBA application is now open. For more information on applying, please visit the MIT Sloan admissions website. If you need guidance on your MIT Sloan cover letter and application or wish to discuss your business school plans, don’t hesitate to reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post MIT Sloan Cover Letter, Application Requirements for 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
29 Jun 2022, 14:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Cambridge MBA Deadlines for 2022-2023 |
 Are you interested in the University of Cambridge Judge Business School? Get ready to mark your calendar! Here are the Cambridge MBA deadlines for the 2022-2023 admissions cycle. Cambridge MBA Deadlines and Interview Days Round 1 Application due: September 5, 2022 Interview days: October 14-28, 2022 Round 2 Application due: October 17, 2022 Interview days: November 25-December 9, 2022 Round 3 Application due: January 9, 2023 Interview days: February 24-March 17, 2023 Round 4 Application due: March 6, 2023 Interview days: April 14-28, 2023 Round 5 Application due: April 17, 2023 Interview days: May 26-June 9, 2023 For additional information on applying, please visit the Cambridge Judge admissions website. If you need guidance on your Cambridge MBA application or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post Cambridge MBA Deadlines for 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
30 Jun 2022, 07:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Cornell MBA Essays for the MBA Class of 2025 |
 Is Cornell University’s SC Johnson College of Business on your shortlist of target MBA programs? Then let the brainstorming begin! The Cornell MBA essays for the 2022-2023 admission season have been confirmed. Candidates must again complete the customary Goals Statement, but there is only one required essay this year. Goals Statement Use this short answer question to succinctly share your short and long-term goals. If invited to interview, you will have the opportunity to elaborate further and should be prepared to connect your prior experience with your future aspirations. A statement of your goals will begin a conversation that will last throughout the admissions process and guide your steps during the MBA program and experience. To the best of your understanding today, please share your short and long-term goals by completing the following sentences and answering the enclosed short answer question (350 words maximum): Immediately post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) ____[Role]____ at ___[Company]___within___[Industry]___. Targeted Job Role: Target Job Company: Industry: In 5 – 10 years post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) ____[Role]____ at ___[Company]___within___[Industry]___. Targeted Job Role: Target Job Company: Industry: How has your experience prepared and encouraged you to pursue these goals? Impact Essay This essay is designed to explore the intersection of engagement and community culture. Whether during the program or following graduation, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. To help you explore your potential for impact, we encourage you to engage with our students, alumni, faculty, and professional staff. You may choose to connect with them via email or phone or in person during one of our on-campus or off-campus events. As you seek their input and insight, please be respectful of their time and prepare a few discussion points or questions in advance. At Cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. Taking into consideration your background, how do you intend to make a meaningful impact on an elite MBA community? (350 words maximum) Optional Essay-Required for Reapplicants You may use this essay to call attention to items needing clarification and to add additional details to any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson (350 words maximum). If you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application and candidacy since the last time you applied for admission. Please also review our Application Guide for additional information about reapplying (350 words maximum). *** For more information on applying, visit the Johnson School admissions website. If you need guidance on your Cornell MBA essays and application or wish to discuss your business school plans, don’t hesitate to reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post Cornell MBA Essays for the MBA Class of 2025 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
01 Jul 2022, 06:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Duke MBA Essays for the MBA Class of 2025 |
 Are you targeting the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University? Then let the brainstorming begin! The Duke MBA essays for the 2022-2023 admissions season are here. Note that the prompts remain unchanged from the previous application cycle. Duke MBA Essays Required Short-Answer Essay Question Instructions: Answer the following question in 100 words.
The ‘Team Fuqua’ spirit and community is one of the things that sets the MBA experience apart, and it is a concept that extends beyond the student body to include faculty, staff, and administration. Please share with us “25 Random Things” about you. The Admissions Committee wants to get to know YOU – beyond the professional and academic achievements listed in your resume and transcript. Share with us important life experiences, your hobbies, achievements, fun facts, or anything that helps us understand what makes you who you are. Your list will be limited to 2 pages (750 words maximum). Please present your response in list form, numbered 1 to 25. Some points may be brief, while others may be longer. Second Required Essay: the Fuqua Community and You Fuqua prides itself on cultivating a culture of engagement. Our students enjoy a wide range of student-led organizations that provide opportunities for leadership development and personal fulfillment, as well as an outlet for contributing to society. Our student-led government, clubs, centers, and events are an integral part of the student culture and to the development of leaders. Based on your understanding of the Fuqua culture, what are 3 ways you expect to contribute at Fuqua? Your response will be limited to 1 page (500 words maximum).  Optional Essay: Tell Us More If you feel there are circumstances of which the admissions committee should be aware, please explain them here (e.g. unexplained gaps in work, choice of recommenders, inconsistent or questionable academic performance). Note that you should NOT upload additional essays nor additional recommendations in this area. The Optional Information section is intended to provide the admissions committee with insight into your circumstances only. Your response will be limited to 1 page (500 words maximum). *** The application for the Class of 2025 will open in early July. For more information on applying, please visit the Duke Fuqua MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your Duke MBA essays and application or wish to discuss your business school plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post Duke MBA Essays for the MBA Class of 2025 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
05 Jul 2022, 06:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Wharton MBA Essay Tips 2022-2023 |
 The Wharton School seeks to understand who you are and what motivates you in this set of essays. Above all, Wharton values diversity and teamwork. Wharton seeks a class that will work well with each other and wants to admit passionate learners. SBC’s Wharton MBA Essay tips will help you prepare your best possible application package. You can get to know the Wharton community through networking and reading. Wharton has a specific culture, and learning more about it will pay off in your application. Resources on the Wharton website, such as Wharton Stories, are also a great start.  Essay 1: How do you plan to use the Wharton MBA program to help you achieve your future professional goals? You might consider your past experience, short and long-term goals, and resources available at Wharton. (500 words) This career goals question focuses on why Wharton is the right fit for you. However, it’s also a question about your personality and potential success in the program. Jordan Mock, WG’16, wrote a blog post with three excellent tips for this essay, saying, “Wharton is unique and your essay should reflect that.” Focus on the question of how a Wharton MBA will help you “connect the three career dots” that Jordan discusses. Also, consider your past experiences. Think about the critical moments of your professional life that led to your goals. Focus on telling the story of those decision points. Remember, anything unique in your background is always worth describing. Finally, one of our best Wharton MBA essay tips is that understanding exactly how you fit in will help you describe what Wharton will do for you. That will also help you navigate interactions with the Wharton admissions committee. Consider including specific information from your Wharton research in this essay. For example, mention the faculty you want to study with or the unique classes offered at Wharton. Consider what it might be like to live in Philadelphia. Think about the many clubs and student activities. Also, research the unique leadership development opportunities, such as traveling to Antarctica with your classmates.  Essay 2: Taking into consideration your background – personal, professional, and/or academic – how do you plan to make specific, meaningful contributions to the Wharton community? (400 words) Wharton is an intense academic environment. But, it also has a strong community focused on teamwork and learning from each other. As you select a topic for this essay, think about your particular background. What have you done in the past that can show how you will contribute? Your contribution to the Wharton community could be in the classroom, in clubs, or within small group projects. You might bring your experiences launching a new product to your marketing case studies. Maybe you will lend creative ideas to your learning team as you prepare a research project because you have demonstrated creativity in your past accomplishments. Perhaps you have shown a tendency to teach and mentor others, and you plan to help your learning teammates with skills that they may not have learned in their past work. For example, you might contribute to the Media and Entertainment Club by leading a career trek or bringing a new speaker to campus because you have connections from a prior career experience. Brainstorm anything learned in your career or undergrad that could help your classmates at Wharton.  Required Essay for all Reapplicants: Please use this space to share with the Admissions Committee how you have reflected and grown since your previous application and discuss any relevant updates to your candidacy (e.g., changes in your professional life, additional coursework, and extracurricular/volunteer engagements). (250 words) All re-applicants are required to provide information that supports your renewed candidacy. The most successful version of the re-applicant essay will provide tangible evidence that you have improved the overall package you are submitting this year. Improvements such as GMAT scores or new quantitative classes are particularly relevant and convincing. But a promotion, increase in responsibility at work, a job change or even a change of goals and mission can serve as reasonable updates. A rejection or waitlist last year is a form of feedback and may have led to soul searching for you. When you describe your changes, make sure to reflect your ability to take feedback and improve. Describe how you approached the reapplication process after assessing your strengths and weaknesses. It is also helpful to describe your efforts to improve. Optional Essay: Please use this space to share any additional information about yourself that cannot be found elsewhere in your application and that you would like to share with the Admissions Committee. You may use this space to address any extenuating circumstances (e.g., unexplained gaps in work experience, choice of recommenders, inconsistent or questionable academic performance, areas of weakness, etc.) that you would like the Admissions Committee to consider. The optional essay is a great place to cover any areas of concern in your application. Wharton looks for solid academics and quant skills. So, your essay could address a low GPA or GMAT, gaps in your resume, or grades under a C in any quantitative course. Another relevant issue could be disciplinary action in undergrad. Start by explaining the issue clearly and succinctly. Then, use evidence to show how you have improved and addressed any concerns. Finally, discuss how you plan to maintain positive momentum. Now that you’ve seen our Wharton MBA essay tips, contact Stacy Blackman Consulting to learn how we can help with your Wharton application. The post Tuesday Tips: Wharton MBA Essay Tips 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
05 Jul 2022, 06:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Stanford MBA Essay Tips for 2022-2023 |
 The Stanford Graduate School of Business has announced the Stanford MBA essay questions for this year’s application. Today, we’re sharing our Stanford MBA essay tips to help you create a positive impression through your application materials. This year’s essays remain unchanged from previous seasons. However, the optional questions have been reduced to a single prompt this year. The admissions committee at Stanford has gained significant insight into applicants by asking, “What matters most, and why?” along with “Why Stanford?” These questions are simple, yet the answers are revealing. Also, the optional essay allows you to go beyond your resume and describe a time you had an impact. What is Stanford Looking For? One of SBC’s former GSB Admissions Officers shared, “GSB is looking for people who will make a big difference AND have a better shot than most in being able to execute. Stanford GSB students also seem to have this ‘X’ factor associated with them. Almost like an ‘unexpected’ trait, talent, or experience.” Many students are intimidated to apply to Stanford GSB for their MBA in light of its high ranking and competitive admissions numbers. However, here at Stacy Blackman Consulting, we have worked with hundreds of applicants over the years who have successfully gained admission to Stanford. We shared some of our successful applicants’ essential traits to help everyone get admitted to top-tier schools. Our successful Stanford MBA applicants demonstrated real character. That means they have helped others and shown they share a sense of community. Also, they showed that they cared about the world beyond their material wants and needs in their essays. As Stanford advises, “answer the question. Resist the urge to ‘package’ yourself into what you think Stanford wants to see. Doing so will only prevent us from understanding who you really are and what you hope to accomplish. The most impressive essays are the most authentic.” Therefore, these essays need to be personal and reveal your personality and what drives you. Understanding Stanford’s culture and academics will help you tailor your application. Before starting these essays, it will be helpful to speak to Stanford students and alumni. If you need to start your research online, read stories from current students. You can begin with our former client, Natasha Malpani (pictured).  Stanford MBA Essay Tips Length Both essays combined may not exceed 1,050 words. We recommend up to 650 words for Essay A and up to 400 words for Essay B. We often find effective essays that are written in fewer words. ESSAY A: WHAT MATTERS MOST TO YOU, AND WHY? For this essay, we would like you to reflect deeply and write from the heart. Once you’ve identified what matters most to you, help us understand why. You might consider, for example, what makes this so important to you? What people, insights, or experiences have shaped your perspectives? This Stanford MBA essay is about diving deep into what motivates you and why. Topics can range from personal history to big-picture visions of the future. This essay should not be explicitly career related (and the most persuasive essays are likely not career oriented at all). However, some of your themes will likely continue in the following essay, which may focus more on your career. For example, you may have a personal passion that also has led you into a related career aspiration. Your character should shine through, and ideally, introspection and honesty carry through the entire set of essays. To generate ideas, try brainstorming for a few days. Ask friends and family what values they see you demonstrating in your life and choices. What keeps you awake at night? Keep a notebook by your bed so you can record your first thoughts upon waking up. Review your personal history for ideas. When you look back at your life, what do you admire and regret about your choices? Are there moments in your life that have led to a change in direction? Who has impacted your decisions? These are the kind of questions to ask yourself as you brainstorm topics for this essay. It is tough to write such an open-ended and challenging essay. To focus, use detailed and specific anecdotes. Clear examples will provide the reader with images and stories to understand your perspective. After reading hundreds of essays, the ones that have vivid stories in them stand out the most. However, Stanford GSB specifically advises focusing on people and experiences that have influenced you. Accomplishments and achievements are great, but Stanford wants to know you. Don’t be scared of the challenging moments in life – often, self-awareness emerges from challenges. Whatever experiences you choose, it’s imperative to talk about why they impacted your life and your values. Along with colorful examples, talk about how you felt, thought, and reacted both at the time and as you reflected later. The “why” will come out of your reactions to your life experience or people who have influenced you and the resulting introspection.  ESSAY B: WHY STANFORD? Describe your aspirations and how your Stanford GSB experience will help you realize them. If you are applying to both the MBA and MSx programs, use Essay B to address your interest in both programs. After explaining who you are, you will tell why your next step is a Stanford MBA. If you are applying to both the MBA and MSx, make sure you can highlight the advantages of both programs for your situation. For example, you might have significant work experience and also see the benefits of attending a two-year program. Therefore, you could be interested in either option to achieve your goals. The sub-questions for this essay cover both why you are interested in pursuing an MBA and why you specifically want to attend Stanford GSB for your MBA. Stanford GSB wants to know your aspirations will be uniquely satisfied by the program. As a result, school research will help you explain how academics and community matter to you. Be as specific as possible to provide evidence that you have done your research. Have you met current students and alumni? Who are the professors you are excited about? What are the unique programs? Is Stanford’s culture appealing to you, and why? Think about using specific examples, like the career path of one particular alum you admire. If the question seems too vast, take a few minutes to close your eyes and reflect. Envision your life in twenty years. Where do you live? How do you spend your days? What is your favorite activity? Does this vision fit into your career aspirations? Don’t be shy about your ambitions. Once you have identified your dream career, make sure an MBA is a big part of achieving your plans.  Also, consider that Stanford likes to see applicants who dream big and have the credibility to achieve their goals. Be bold with your aspirations. Therefore write about global, big picture issues you would like to solve. Not what your parents or partner want you to do, and not the next job on the corporate ladder. In particular, explain what you—with your unique background and values—want for your life. Even though you should think big, don’t make the mistake of acting as if you are already perfect with no development needed. After all, you are a work in progress, and that’s appropriate. Remember that MBA programs want to help promising candidates reach their goals and be one step on an ambitious career trajectory. Optional Short Answer Question In the Essays section of the application, we ask you to tell us about who you are and how you think Stanford will help you achieve your aspirations. We are also interested in learning about the things you have done that are most meaningful to you. If you would like to go beyond your resume to discuss some of your contributions more fully, you are welcome to share up to three examples (up to 1,200 characters, or approximately 200 words, for each example) What do we mean by “optional”? We truly mean you have the opportunity to choose. If you feel that you’ve already described your contributions well in other areas of the application, congratulations, you’re done! If not, feel free to use this opportunity to tell us more. Stanford’s MBA essay optional short-answer questions are truly optional. Many applicants to Stanford write personal stories and describe internal motivations in the “what matters most” essay. This leaves very little space to talk about your impact on organizations or teams. If you are one of those applicants, this is the perfect place to show off some of your leadership stories.  Optional Question: Think about times you’ve created a positive impact, whether in professional, extracurricular, academic, or other settings. What was your impact? What made it significant to you or to others? This Stanford MBA essay focuses on an example of a time when you created an impact. Stanford is looking for people who have inner strength and drive. But also, Stanford seeks those who can influence others. First, think about when you influenced a group. Perhaps you were a leader or a vital team member. Then, think about the positive results of that experience and how you contributed. Finally, describe how it was important to you. Ideally, this significance fits with your overall application themes in the primary essays. And, hopefully, it also shows a new side to your candidacy. *** If you still find the essays challenging after reading these Stanford MBA essay tips, then don’t hesitate to contact Stacy Blackman Consulting for guidance through the process. (Image credit: Corey Seeman, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) The post Tuesday Tips: Stanford MBA Essay Tips for 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
06 Jul 2022, 06:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Great MBA Recommenders: Pick the Right Person for the Job |
|
[img]https://www.stacyblackman.com/wp-content/uploads/pexels-august-de-richelieu-4427813-1-734x490.jpg[/img] Although Round 1 applications aren’t due [url=https://www.stacyblackman.com/mba-application-deadlines/]until the fall[/url], the time is now to start thinking about who will support you as you pull together your materials. Your recommenders, in particular, will play a critical role in the process. So how do you ensure you ask the right people to write letters on your behalf? Today we’ll explain how to identify great MBA recommenders for your b-school application. The majority of programs require two recommendation letters. Also, they prefer one to be from a direct manager. However, almost all schools will waive that requirement if you think informing your employer of your plans to return to school would adversely affect your position (or possible promotion or bonus). If that’s your situation, you can note it briefly in the “Additional Information” or “Optional Essay” space. You also may be in a position where you don’t have just one direct manager. In that case, you have a choice of whom to approach. In this scenario and when considering who will write your second letter, don’t underestimate the importance of asking the most appropriate people. [img]https://www.stacyblackman.com/wp-content/uploads/pexels-quoc-bao-2118058-734x489.jpg[/img] So, who are not great MBA recommenders? Adcoms vastly prefer to hear from managers and co-workers who know you well, both personally and professionally. They’re looking for more insight into what makes you tick, how you perform in groups, and your potential for the future. They are rarely impressed or swayed by a recommender’s title or alumni status. One of the biggest mistakes we see applicants make is asking their company’s CEO — who they barely know or may have never even met in person — to write their recommendation letter. If your recommender cannot go into specifics about your accomplishments or provide detailed anecdotes highlighting your positive personality traits, you’ve missed an enormous opportunity to differentiate yourself from the competition. We suggest [url=https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/slideshows/10-ways-to-get-amazing-mba-recommendation-letters]listing all the people you could ask[/url] to write a letter of support for your MBA applications. Who are your biggest cheerleaders at work? Who would jump at the chance to help you get into your dream school? These people are great MBA recommenders because they will go above and beyond to write a stellar and, most importantly, memorable reference. Remember: [img]https://www.stacyblackman.com/wp-content/uploads/SurroundYourselfOnlyWithPeopleWhoAreGoingToLiftYouHigher-2-1.jpg[/img] Until next time, The team at Stacy Blackman Consulting ***Do you want to stay on top of the application process with timely tips like these? Please subscribe to our [url=https://www.stacyblackman.com/newsletter]weekly newsletter[/url] and you’ll receive our expert advice straight in your mailbox before it appears on the blog, plus special offers, promotions, discounts, invitations to events, and more. The post [url=https://www.stacyblackman.com/blog/pick-great-mba-recommenders/]Great MBA Recommenders: Pick the Right Person for the Job[/url] appeared first on [url=https://www.stacyblackman.com]Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting[/url]. |
07 Jul 2022, 06:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: B-Schooled Podcast Episode #115: Spotlight on Darden |
 In this week’s episode of our B-Schooled podcast, MPG, a former Assistant Director of Admissions and adcom member at Darden—who’s now on the SBC admissions consulting team—shares insight into UVA’s Darden School of Business and its surrounding Charlottesville community. He’ll cover:
Check episode #115 out below, or on any of the podcast apps listed after the player. B-Schooled is available on most major podcast apps, including: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher TuneIn Please be sure to subscribe to B-Schooled so that you don’t miss a thing. Also, if there’s something you’d like for us to cover in a future episode, please email podcast@stacyblackman.com. We’d love to hear from you! The post B-Schooled Podcast Episode #115: Spotlight on Darden appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
08 Jul 2022, 13:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Georgetown MBA Deadlines for 2022-2023 |
 Are you interested in Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business? Then get out your calendar, because the Georgetown MBA deadlines for the 2022-2023 admissions cycle have been confirmed. Note that the Fall 2023 application will open in August. Georgetown MBA Deadlines Round 1 Application due: September 28, 2022 Decision released: TBA Round 2 Application due: January 5, 2023 Decision released: TBA Round 3 Application due: March 30, 2023 Decision released: TBA Round 4 Application due: May 2, 2023 Decision released: TBA All applications are due by 11:59 p.m. ET on the deadline day. *** For more information on applying, please visit the Georgetown MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your Georgetown MBA application or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post Georgetown MBA Deadlines for 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
08 Jul 2022, 13:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Georgetown MBA Essays for 2022-2023 |
 Is the McDonough School of Business at Georgetown University on your shortlist of target MBA programs? Then get ready, because the Georgetown MBA essays for the new admissions cycle have been confirmed. Georgetown MBA Essays Notes from the school: We want to hear your story. When responding to our required essays, be authentic and take time to reflect on your goals and past experiences. Craft a response that explains how these experiences led you to pursue an MBA. Our goal at Georgetown McDonough is to craft a diverse class with people who have had varying personal and professional life experiences. As such, we want to give our applicants the opportunity to select one essay (from a list of three) that allows them the ability to best highlight their experiences, characteristics, and values that showcase the value proposition that they can bring to the McDonough community.  Please select one of the following three essays to complete in 300-350 words (approximately one page, double spaced) and include the essay prompt and your first/last name at the top of your submission. Essay Option One Principled Leadership: Principled Leadership: Georgetown McDonough places a strong emphasis on principled leadership, providing both curricular and co-curricular opportunities to strengthen your leadership skills. Describe a time when you have led a team in a professional environment to implement a new idea or process. What leadership characteristics did you utilize? What could you have done to be more effective? And most importantly, what skills will you be able to bring to the teams you lead at McDonough? Essay Option Two Hoyas for the Common Good: Georgetown McDonough embodies the ethos that people and organizations can and should contribute to the greater good. The admissions committee would like to better understand how you have demonstrated these values during uniquely challenging times. Describe a time where you have put the needs of others ahead of your own or ahead of the bottom line. We look forward to learning more about the challenge you faced, what unique characteristics you brought to that scenario, and what you learned from it. Essay Option Three The Georgetown Community: Georgetown McDonough is a diverse, global community. We look to understand the contribution that your personal background would make to our community. As appropriate, you may wish to address any obstacles or challenges you have overcome; any educational, familial, cultural, economic, and social experiences that have helped to shape your educational and professional goals; or how your background (e.g. first-generation student, resident outside the U.S.) or activities (e.g. community service and leadership) will contribute to our community.  Video Essay Building a cohort of diverse and unique individuals is important to the admissions team. We want you to bring your whole self to Georgetown McDonough. Throughout the application, we’ve learned about what you would add as a professional and leader. Just as important is learning about your interests outside of work. In one minute, please describe a hobby, passion, or what you do for fun in your free time—and why. You can find more information about the parameters of this essay here. Optional Essay Please provide any information you would like to add to your application that you have not otherwise included (300-350 words, approximately one page, double spaced). Re-Applicant Essay Required for re-applicants. How have you strengthened your candidacy since your last application? We are particularly interested in hearing about how you have grown professionally and personally (300-350 words, approximately one page, double-spaced). *** For more information on applying, please visit the Georgetown MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your Georgetown MBA essays or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post Georgetown MBA Essays for 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
11 Jul 2022, 07:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Motivation is Overrated |
 “FRESH IDEAS FROM THE BLACKLIGHT” SBC’s Weekly Newsletter for Professionals Here at the Blacklight, we’ve shared strategies for improving your motivation a time or two. Today, we’re coming at this from a new angle: namely, that motivation is overrated. You read right—you can succeed even when you’re feeling utterly unenthusiastic. This isn’t to say you should abandon all attempts at finding that shot in the arm that gets you moving. But we hope to ease some of the anxiety that can lead to paralysis if your motivation has vaporized. Professor Gráinne Fitzsimons of Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business studies motivation and has a refreshing take on the topic. “Rather than focusing on keeping ourselves psyched up, and bolstering our motivation, and putting little motivating sticky quotes on our screens, my real suggestion to you is to consider thinking of motivation as something that’s lovely, nice to have, a gift from the universe—but not necessary to do what it is that you want to do,” Fitzsimons says.  So, what to do instead when you don’t feel motivated? You have a few options. First, you could just get started on whatever you’re procrastinating about. Often, satisfaction sets in once you’re in the middle of the task or have completed it. Think of that feeling you get after a workout when you had to drag yourself to the gym, says Fitzsimons. You could also try making yourself accountable to someone else. “If your mom is counting on you to come through with something, you’re more likely to come through,” Fitzsimons notes. “So those are the kinds of ways we can take advantage of motivation’s flightiness by sort of bolstering it.” Or, you could try a complete shift of your mindset.  Motivation Adjacent The best strategy might be to embrace this mantra: You don’t have to feel like getting something done to get something done. Oliver Burkeman makes the following observation in his book, “The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can’t Stand Positive Thinking.” “Who says you need to wait until you ‘feel like’ doing something in order to start doing it? The problem, from this perspective, isn’t that you don’t feel motivated; it’s that you imagine you need to feel motivated. If you can regard your thoughts and emotions about whatever you’re procrastinating on as passing weather, you’ll realise that your reluctance about working isn’t something that needs to be eradicated or transformed into positivity. You can coexist with it. You can note the procrastinatory feelings and act anyway.” Finally, know that adopting routines and habits can often take motivation’s place. For example, commit to tackling your most challenging assignments before lunch each day. Eliminate digital distractions that sap your attention. If the task is boring or hard, try the Pomodoro technique and work in short, contained bursts. It takes time and effort to establish good habits. But once you do, you won’t need to feel like doing X task. You just do it. “What if motivation is not a birthright, but a lovely reward from the universe that we can earn by doing things,” says Fitzsimons. “I think that framing of motivation is much more helpful than the one that has us sitting around and waiting for it to strike.” Huzzah! You made it to the end of the post! This post on motivation appeared initially in the Blacklight, our weekly newsletter for professionals. At the Blacklight, we aim to illuminate with every dispatch that lands in your inbox. If you’re thirsty for guidance to help you slay it at work or as a student and move your goalposts closer, sign up today! The post Motivation is Overrated appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
11 Jul 2022, 13:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: UCLA MBA Application Essays for 2022-2023 |
 If the UCLA Anderson School of Management is on your shortlist of target MBA programs, then let the brainstorming begin. Here are the UCLA MBA application essays and deadlines for the 2022-2023 season. This year, Anderson has one updated essay question that is required for first-time applicants and optional for re-applicants. UCLA MBA Application Essays Required Essay: Tell us about a recent personal or professional achievement and how it connects to your MBA goals. (250 words maximum) Strong essays describe the impact of your achievement and clarify its connection to your future MBA plans in the short- and long-term. We look forward to learning about the specific ways your achievement helped set you up for future success. Optional Essay: No preference is given in the evaluation process to those who choose to respond to this optional essay, so please use your best judgment. Are there any extenuating circumstances in your profile about which the Admissions Committee should be aware? (250 words maximum) Reapplicants Reapplicants are those who applied to the MBA program within the last two application years, so those who applied three or more years ago are considered new applicants. Reapplicants may answer one or both of the essay questions above as options, and they must provide additional updates within text boxes given in the application for any new test scores, career developments, or other changes since their last application. *** For more information on applying, please visit the UCLA Anderson MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your UCLA MBA application or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post UCLA MBA Application Essays for 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
11 Jul 2022, 14:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Emory MBA Essays for 2022-2023 |
 Are you interested in Emory University’s Goizueta Business School? Then it’s time to start brainstorming! The Emory MBA essays for the 2022-2023 application season have been confirmed. Instructions for the Emory MBA Essays The essays are an important part of your MBA application because they give you the opportunity to tell the MBA Admissions Committee more about yourself. To go beyond your resume bullet points and share more of your story. Please complete all the required essays below and follow the word limits provided. Essay One: Post-MBA Career Goals Define your short-term post-MBA career goals. How are your professional strengths, past experience, and personal attributes aligned with these goals? (300-word limit) Essay Two: Leadership in Business The business school is named for Roberto C. Goizueta, former Chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, who led the organization for 16 years, extending its global reach, quadrupling consumption, building brand responsibility, creating unprecedented shareholder wealth, and demonstrating a commitment to values and positive impact on society. Roberto Goizueta’s core values guide us in educating principled leaders to have a positive influence on business and society. Provide a specific example of your leadership and explain what you learned about yourself through the experience. (300-word limit) Essay Three: Why Goizueta? What are you looking to gain from Goizueta’s MBA degree, and how do you see yourself contributing to the Goizueta community? (200-word limit) Video Essay Telling your story in the written essays is an important part of the application process, but we also want to hear you tell some of your story. The video essay lets every candidate talk to the MBA Admissions Committee, and we enjoy getting to know you through the “small talk” questions. Optional Essay If there is an important part of your story missing from your MBA application (e.g., unexplained gaps in work experience, choice of recommenders, academic probation issues), please use this section to provide a brief explanation. Please use bullets if you need to address more than one topic.(200-word limit) Reapplicant Essays Applicants who have applied to Goizueta Business School in the past must answer the following questions:
For more information on applying, please visit the Emory MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your Emory MBA essays and application or wish to discuss your business school plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post Emory MBA Essays for 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
12 Jul 2022, 06:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Duke MBA Essays and Tips for 2022-2023 |
 Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business is a community-oriented program seeking a diverse class of accomplished students. Below, see Stacy Blackman Consulting’s tips for the Duke MBA essays. The Fuqua Duke MBA questions remain the same this year. Just like in years past, Duke Fuqua seeks a well-rounded MBA class. Also, Duke Fuqua MBA students are motivated and collaborative. As you decide what to write about in your essays, carefully review the application instructions. Give serious thought to what you value in an MBA program. Part of your research on Duke Fuqua should include talking to current students. And finally, make sure you let your personality shine through in the application. To come up with an individualized strategy for your Duke MBA essays, contact Stacy Blackman Consulting. We can help you better understand the admissions process at Fuqua. Duke MBA Essays and Tips for 2022-2023 Required short-answer essay question Instructions: Answer the following question in 100 words. What are your post-MBA career goals? Share with us your first-choice career plan and your alternate plan. This is a concise essay asking for your vision for your career. Think big picture and focus on the overall story trajectory. How will your career goals flow from the combination of your MBA and your past experiences? The career goals essay is about your ability to assess your skills and plan for the future. However, it’s not a commitment to a specific path. To that point, Duke MBA admissions wants to know your first and alternate choices in careers. In response, think about goals that fit with your background and personality. Also, show what you could explore if your first plan doesn’t work out. Flexibility is helpful in a changing world and valuable for this Duke MBA essay. For example, say your primary goal is to work in marketing in the consumer packaged goods industry. Therefore, you might be interested in a company like General Mills. If you don’t find the right job in that industry after Duke, maybe you would consider marketing for a retailer, such as Target. This could be an alternative career path because it allows you to develop a marketing career while remaining flexible about the industry. Or, you may have two separate interests and want to consider both of them. Your Plan A is to join a strategy consulting firm after graduation. However, if you don’t receive a job at your top choice firm, you would think about co-founding a start-up as another possible path. Think about your range of interests and go from there. Because you have limited space in this Duke MBA essay, boil your plans down to a clear statement. You should support any ideas for an MBA and career goals with the information provided in your resume, recommendations, and other essays. In particular, Duke Fuqua should be the ideal training ground for your future career. First Required Essay: 25 Random Things About Yourself The ‘Team Fuqua’ spirit and community is one of the things that sets the MBA experience apart, and it is a concept that extends beyond the student body to include faculty, staff, and administration. Please share with us “25 Random Things” about you. The Admissions Committee wants to get to know YOU – beyond the professional and academic achievements listed in your resume and transcript. Share with us important life experiences, your hobbies, achievements, fun facts, or anything that helps us understand what makes you who you are. Your list will be limited to 2 pages (750 words maximum). Please present your response in list form, numbered 1 to 25. Some points may be brief, while others may be longer. This Duke MBA essay is entirely open-ended. As a result, you can cover your background, work experiences, values, and hobbies. This is the place to tell your most compelling stories and make sure that personal topics are relevant to your Duke Fuqua application. To help you answer this question, the Duke admissions committee has posted its own 25 Random Things examples. These range from very personal (engagement stories) to inspiring (starting a company from nothing). Consider the variety of responses as you draft your list. Twenty-five random things may seem impossible to come up with at first. Therefore, start your creative process by brainstorming with friends and family. First, ask them what they think is unique and memorable about you. Then, ask them to share the first story that comes to mind when asked about you. Another idea is to keep a notebook handy at all times to record your thoughts as inspiration strikes. Once you have 25 random things, how do you structure your list? You can structure chronologically, thematically, or even alphabetically. Also, you could organize the list so that it builds from shorter to longer items. Another idea is to alternate paragraphs of explanations with sets of one-sentence items. Structure the list to make it easy to read and follow. But, resist the urge to package the list too perfectly. Remember, content is always the essential part of these Duke MBA essays. Also, the point of this essay is to show Fuqua your personality. This makes the essay a crucial part of your overall Duke Fuqua application.  Second Required Essay: the Fuqua Community and You Fuqua prides itself on cultivating a culture of engagement. Our students enjoy a wide range of student-led organizations that provide opportunities for leadership development and personal fulfillment, as well as an outlet for contributing to society. Our student-led government, clubs, centers, and events are an integral part of the student culture and to the development of leaders. Based on your understanding of the Fuqua culture, what are 3 ways you expect to contribute at Fuqua? Your response will be limited to 1 page (500 words maximum). For this Duke Fuqua MBA essay, you should be specific about why Team Fuqua is the right place for you. As a result, the best Duke MBA essays will be personal yet informed. Everyone benefits from a diverse alumni network. Therefore, what will you specifically give and receive from your classmates? To decide on areas to focus on for this short essay, think about your past experiences. First, does Fuqua have clubs that match your interests? Next, what classes are intriguing and would help you build upon your knowledge? Finally, offer specific examples from your past experiences to show your passions. Fit with the program is crucial. Ideally, you would showcase personal qualities that Duke Fuqua values. For example, Fuqua is especially interested in your role within your community. Community involvement, therefore, has significant weight in your Duke Fuqua application.  Fuqua School of Business – Keller Center East – Hall of Flags Also, This essay can be a place to talk about how the Duke MBA fits into your career goals. What do you know now that a Fuqua MBA education will further enhance? And what skills will you learn at Duke to benefit your future? Overall, the main focus should be your contributions to the Duke community. Think about how you plan to improve the experience of others at Duke. Optional Essay: Tell Us More If you feel there are circumstances of which the admissions committee should be aware, please explain them here (e.g. unexplained gaps in work, choice of recommenders, inconsistent or questionable academic performance). Note that you should NOT upload additional essays nor additional recommendations in this area. The Optional Information section is intended to provide the admissions committee with insight into your circumstances only. Your response will be limited to 1 page (500 words maximum). Remember, this essay is only for exceptional circumstances. Therefore, do not use this essay to add new information to your Duke Fuqua application. If you have a low GPA, a gap in work history, or recommender issues, you should write this essay. Otherwise, plan to skip this question. Focus on explanations and future performance in this essay. In a factual and positive manner, write that you know there could be questions about your background. Then, describe how you have improved. Your goal is to show that you have addressed or corrected any past issues. You are now on a successful trajectory and can handle Duke Fuqua’s academics. Overall your goal is to show you are ready to contribute to Duke Fuqua. The post Tuesday Tips: Duke MBA Essays and Tips for 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
12 Jul 2022, 07:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: MIT Sloan Cover Letter and Video Advice for 2022-2023 |
 Are you targeting the MIT Sloan School of Management this application season? Today, we’re sharing our tips for the MIT Sloan cover letter and personal video statement to help you create a positive impression through your application materials. The MIT Sloan MBA admissions committee has put together a set of useful video tips on their YouTube channel, including a “day in the life” of a Sloan student. In watching the videos, you can see what Sloan values to highlight in your MIT Sloan Cover Letter. One of the former MIT Admissions Officers on the SBC team shared that MIT seeks applicants who can navigate, “problems of progressive complexity, ability to adapt to ambiguous situations, independence of thought, humility/consideration for others.” Students at MIT Sloan are engaged, creative, and think outside the typical MBA frameworks. A study group profiled in the videos includes engineering and design students. For example, a student in the video just returned from a trip to Africa. Also, the video describes vibrant social events and life in Cambridge and Boston. With the cover letter essay, your task is to convince the admissions committee that you are MIT Sloan MBA material. MIT Sloan Cover Letter MIT Sloan seeks students whose personal characteristics demonstrate that they will make the most of the incredible opportunities at MIT, both academic and non-academic. We are on a quest to find those whose presence will enhance the experience of other students. We seek thoughtful leaders with exceptional intellectual abilities and the drive and determination to put their stamp on the world. We welcome people who are independent, authentic, and fearlessly creative — true doers. We want people who can redefine solutions to conventional problems, and strive to preempt unconventional dilemmas with cutting-edge ideas. We demand integrity and respect passion. Taking the above into consideration, please submit a cover letter seeking a place in the MIT Sloan MBA program. Your letter should conform to a standard business correspondence, include one or more professional examples that illustrate why you meet the desired criteria above, and be addressed to the Admissions Committee (300 words or fewer, excluding address and salutation). The MIT Sloan cover letter format has been used for many years to select candidates. In some ways, this structure reflects the MIT goal to admit candidates with practical (though innovative) ideas and experience. Also, the cover letter is a way to describe your key accomplishments and use them to prove that you embody the outlined criteria for admission. Those criteria are: independent, authentic, and fearlessly creative — true doers. Take the MIT Sloan cover letter idea literally and approach this essay as if you were applying for a demanding new job. Can you highlight essential stories in your background to prove you take an innovative approach? How can you tell stories that will show you have integrity and passion? Specifically, use one or more concise illustrations. For example, you could discuss a time when you have approached a business problem and provided a creative solution. Have you innovated a process at work? Or, perhaps you have suggested a new approach to a customer problem. Also, think about times when you have been able to provide a fresh perspective at work. Finally, for each story, describe what you did in those situations to demonstrate problem-solving skills and passion. While showcasing your skills and talents is crucial, don’t forget to demonstrate your ability to work with others and support them. Also, note that MIT Sloan is on a quest to find those whose presence will enhance the experience of other students. Therefore, you want to demonstrate that you will be an asset to the community and will embody a collaborative approach.  Video Statement Introduce yourself to your future classmates. Here’s your chance to put a face with a name, let your personality shine through, be conversational, be yourself. We can’t wait to meet you! Videos should adhere to the following guidelines:
First, brainstorm stories that reveal the real you. For example, you might be passionate about travel and experiencing new cultures. Have you made several exciting trips in your life? Each has likely given you a new perspective. Maybe you developed a passion for Thai cuisine after a trip. Or, you collected Brazilian art from your travels to that country. Second, think of a few discrete examples. Third, put the stories and the introduction together. Make sure to practice until you are comfortable before you start recording. Finally, when recording the video essay response, speak slowly and clearly to the camera. Though it will feel awkward to speak to a camera, try to be natural. The most important goal is to convey your personality. Remember, the admissions committee wants you to be authentic and have fun! *** Are you stumped by your MIT MBA application? Contact Stacy Blackman Consulting to learn how we can help. We can even help you practice for the video essay! The post Tuesday Tips: MIT Sloan Cover Letter and Video Advice for 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
13 Jul 2022, 11:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: B-Schooled Podcast Episode #116: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and the MBA |
|
At SBC, we work with an increasing number of applicants interested in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion – either because they are personally passionate about these topics, see DEI as a possible post-MBA career path, or both. If you are interested in Diversity, Equity, and/or Inclusion, this is ABSOLUTELY the podcast for you. This episode includes all of the following (and more): • Tips for DEI-focused applicants applying to MBA programs • Suggestions about making the most of your MBA experience • Thoughts on how best to advance DEI efforts after graduation For this episode, host Chandler Arnold welcomes not one but two special guests: Julye Williams, founder of the Project 2043 initiative, and Keauna Mason, who has championed DEI efforts at Facebook/Meta, the Boston Consulting Group, and a range of other companies. We hope you enjoy this helpful and inspiring conversation. B-Schooled episode #116 can be found here, or take a listen on any of the major podcast platforms below. B-Schooled is available on most major podcast apps, including: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher TuneIn Please be sure to subscribe to B-Schooled so that you don’t miss a thing. Also, if there’s something you’d like for us to cover in a future episode, please email podcast@stacyblackman.com. We’d love to hear from you! The post B-Schooled Podcast Episode #116: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and the MBA appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
14 Jul 2022, 08:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Cambridge MBA Essays for 2022-2023 |
 Are you interested in the MBA program at the University of Cambridge Judge Business School? Then get ready to start brainstorming! Here are the Cambridge MBA essays for the 2022-2023 admissions cycle. Cambridge MBA Essays
3. Describe a time where you worked with a team on a project. What did you learn from the experience and how might you approach it differently today? (up to 200 words) 4. If you could give one piece of advice to your 18-year-old self, what would it be? (up to 200 words) *** For additional information on applying, please visit the Cambridge Judge admissions website. If you need guidance on your Cambridge MBA essays or wish to discuss your business school plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help! The post Cambridge MBA Essays for 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
19 Jul 2022, 06:00
| FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Cornell MBA Application Tips for 2022-2023 |
 Are you targeting Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management? The Cornell MBA application is now live, so it’s time to tackle those MBA essays. Cornell Johnson is a flexible MBA program within an Ivy League campus. The school offers multiple full-time options, including a one-year MBA, specialized executive programs, and the Cornell Tech MBA in Ithaca and NYC. Whatever your goals and background, Cornell has a program that can help you achieve them. Johnson also works to integrate the MBA experience into the larger Cornell community and leverage coursework at the other top-ranked graduate programs to provide more opportunities to Johnson students. When approaching the Cornell MBA application essay and goal statement, set your strategy before you start working. Then, identify the program at Cornell in which you are most interested. Do some comprehensive school research. That means researching the faculty, coursework, and career opportunities. Also, examine your background and goals to see what is most important to explain as part of your story. Make sure to inject a layer of personal background and experiences—what makes you truly unique. Finally, make sure you have solid academics, work experience, and extracurriculars. These can be covered in your Cornell MBA essays, resume, or recommendations. If you identify any holes in your profile or story, take the time to fill them before starting your application. You can explain anything necessary in the optional essay. Cornell MBA Application Essays and Tips Goals Statement Immediately post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) ____[Role]____ at ___[Company]___within___[Industry]___. Targeted Job Role: Target Job Company: Industry: In 5 – 10 years post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) ____[Role]____ at ___[Company]___within___[Industry]___. Targeted Job Role: Target Job Company: Industry: How has your experience prepared and encouraged you to pursue these goals? This short answer question is a quick way to cover the relevant career goals questions for your Cornell MBA application. Make sure that your answers are clear and are consistent with your recommenders. Once you have identified your industry, company, and role in both the short- and long-term, you can briefly answer how your past experiences have led you to your goals. Then, think about the pivotal moments in your career and how they have prepared you for the next step or have helped you to realize your passions. Finally, pick a very brief example to cover here. In addition, you can use your resume and recommendations to showcase any other skills you need to accomplish your goals. You can explain more about your accomplishments and leadership in the Impact Essay. Impact Essay At Cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. Taking into consideration your background, how do you intend to make a meaningful impact on an elite MBA community? (350 words maximum) As the Cornell Johnson admissions committee says, “This essay is designed to explore the intersection of engagement and community culture. Whether during the program or following graduation, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve.” When you consider your MBA experience, how do you plan to be an active part of the community? The first step to answering this question is, once again, to do your research. The admissions team at Johnson suggests connecting with current students using the community search tool. Another way to find a personal connection is to reach out to friends, family, and work colleagues to see if anyone knows a current or future member of the Johnson community. As you prepare for conversations to learn more about Cornell Johnson, think about programs, extracurricular activities, and the informal ways students might interact. Johnson offers groups for interests ranging from cooking to ice hockey and has professional clubs for every possible career path. Those formal groups, or connecting in a classroom or party, might be ways you make connections at Johnson. Showing that you know the school well is essential for a successful Cornell MBA application. Once you have identified opportunities to contribute to campus life at Johnson, you should support your story with evidence from your past experiences. For example, maybe you want to bring new speakers to the Johnson Marketing Association because you have contributed to your young professionals group at work. Explain that you have successfully organized events featuring prominent speakers for a large group of people and can bring that skill to impact your peers at Johnson.  Optional Essay (Required for Reapplicants) You may use this essay to call attention to items needing clarification and to add additional details to any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson (350 words maximum). If you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application and candidacy since the last time you applied for admission. Please also review our Admissions Policy for additional information about re-applying (350 words maximum). This essay allows for either an explanation of any weaknesses in your application or additional information. Your issue could be a poor GPA or GMAT. Or you might have concerns with your undergraduate record. Possibly you were unable to provide a recommendation from a current supervisor. If any of those issues exist, this is the place to give the background. Briefly describe the situation and what may have contributed to the issue (illness, family difficulties, etc.). Make sure you don’t editorialize—facts only. Focus the balance of your essay on looking forward. What have you done in the recent past to demonstrate your skills and intelligence? For re-applicants, this is the place to explain what you have done since your last application. Make sure to strengthen your case for admission. If you have a new GMAT score or took classes in calculus or statistics, you have a solid case for improved academics. A promotion could signal career development and leadership. Even if you don’t have a clear-cut update to describe, you can use this space to explain how you have improved your career goals or fit with Cornell. *** To talk to Stacy Blackman Consulting about your Cornell MBA essays, don’t hesitate to contact us! Learn more about applying at the Cornell Johnson website. The post Tuesday Tips: Cornell MBA Application Tips for 2022-2023 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting. |
|
|
||
