ACNguy wrote:
When tackling an essay like this, is it wise to focus on one core idea as to why you'll make a great fit at Kellogg, or is to ramble of a number of reasons? To me, I feel like it would be wise in such a short essay to find one really strong core reason that makes you valuable, but i dont know if they're looking for more I'll be active in this and this, i'm strong analytically, i've got motivation for miles, etc. etc.
What do you guys think?
I took a slightly different approach - I talked about 1 theme in this essay last year. I positioned this theme as something I am passionate about, gave a few examples to demonstrate instances where I've gotten involved in this area in the past, then talked about examples of how I would continue to get involved in this area at Kellogg. In terms of proportion, probably about 60% how I'd been involved in the past, 40% what I'd do at Kellogg.
pmenon wrote:
when talking about themes, any advice on which specific themes to pull out of the arsenal for Kellogg specifically ?
In terms of themes, the most important criteria is that they are authentic to who you are as a person. Writing what you think the adcom wants to hear is a great way to get dinged. That said, Kellogg is very proud of it's student driven and collaborative culture. It probably wouldn't hurt at some point in the application to show that you fit in and thrive in that sort of environment.