|
It is currently 04 Jun 2023, 10:11 |
Customized
for You
Track
Your Progress
Practice
Pays
08:30 AM PDT
-09:30 AM PDT
12:00 AM BST
-12:00 AM BST
10:00 AM EDT
-11:00 AM EDT
03:30 PM PDT
-04:30 PM PDT
08:00 PM PDT
-09:00 PM PDT
03:00 PM EDT
-04:00 PM EDT
15 Apr 2021, 13:16
22 Apr 2021, 13:00
30 Apr 2021, 11:40
06 May 2021, 09:06
14 May 2021, 07:42
27 May 2021, 10:40
01 Jun 2021, 09:42
01 Jun 2021, 18:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: University of Virginia Darden MBA Application Essay Analysis 2021-2022 |
|
Do you want to attend an MBA program that puts collaboration and teamwork at the forefront of your experience? If so, UVA Darden School of Business may be a great choice for you. UVA Darden is known for its case-based and customized learning experience. As first years, students are assigned to learning teams that enable them to delve deep into case discussions, strengthen their communication skills, and form strong relationships with their classmates. Second year students at UVA Darden use these tools learned in their first year to personalize their academic experiences, targeting specific career goals and skill sets. If you’re looking to apply to UVA Darden’s MBA program during the 2020-2021 application cycle, the school now offers a standardized test waiver. These requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and the admissions committee takes several factors into account when reviewing waivers. The upcoming UVA Darden application deadlines are as follows: Early Action: September 9, 2021 Round 1: October 6, 2021 Round 2: January 5, 2022 Round 3: April 6, 2022 UVA Darden’s 2021-2022 MBA Application Essays: Essay 1: Learning Teams are an invaluable peer resource for Darden students as they navigate the core curriculum. Every student is assigned to a Learning Team consisting of 5-6 students from an array of backgrounds and perspectives, and this built-in support system serves as an important connection to the broader Darden community. Tell us what you would want your Learning Team to know about you that is not on your resume. (150 words maximum) UVA Darden has updated this first essay question slightly for 2021-2022 MBA applicants, removing the suggestion to discuss something personal and/or professional. Instead, Darden added instruction to discuss something that is NOT on the applicant’s resume. Given this change, Personal MBA Coach advises most applicants to use this essay to share a personal aspect of their candidacy as opposed to talking about their professional leadership or track record. Topics discussed here should enhance (not repeat or conflict with) your “Personal Story,” and should allow admissions committee members to learn more about you. This is not the time to present a laundry list of hobbies, passions or accomplishments. Instead, focus on what makes you unique. Think about how you might add to the diversity (think literal diversity and/or diversity of perspective) on your learning team. Be specific and keep in mind that actions are the best predictors of future behavior and provide examples wherever possible. Go beyond just sharing details about you and including the “so-what?” For example, if you were raised in a unique environment, explain this to the reader but then push further. Consider how this shaped who you are today, what makes you unique and what you will bring to the table for your learning team. Regardless of the topic selected, show the reader that you are someone your peers will be excited to learn with!  Essay 2: Darden strives to identify and cultivate responsible leaders who follow their purpose. Please respond to one of the following prompts (200 words maximum) Select the prompt to which you will respond. Q1: Tell us about a time when you worked with a team to solve a problem or seize an opportunity. What role did you play? What did you learn from this experience? Q2: Tell us about a time you acted to solve a problem for the greater good. What drew you to this issue? What did you learn from this experience? This year, Darden gives applicants a choice between two arguably similar questions. Darden’s statement about responsible leadership should help candidates to focus their answers. You should naturally choose a situation where you solved a considerable problem and hopefully made a lasting impact (though unlike last year, Darden does not specifically ask about impact). It is important that the selected story also paints a solid picture of your leadership style. Responsible and purpose are crucial words to consider, and professional, extracurricular or volunteer work could fit nicely here. Do not force this question. There are many examples of problem-solving and working for the “greater good” and not all applicants will have solved major societal or professional issues. Of course, if you have a strong advocacy story, share it here! However, there are many different levels of problem-solving. Darden wants to see how you think and how you act so include these details. Finally, leave space to articulate your learnings here. Once again, Darden is looking for the “so-what?” Essay 3: Diversity and inclusion are critical to our mission and they work best when they are an integral and celebrated part of our community.Review the University of Virginia’s Commitment to Diversity. Diversity stands with ethics, integrity, and academic excellence, as a cornerstone of University culture. The University promotes an inclusive and welcoming environment that embraces the full spectrum of human attributes, perspectives, and disciplines. When people of different backgrounds come together, they exchange ideas, question assumptions (including their own), and broaden the horizons for us all. A University of Virginia community rich in diversity affords every member equal respect and provides a forum for understanding our differences as well as our commonalities. The Darden School develops practices and cultivates a culture that reflect and incorporate the worldviews of its many community members. In this inclusive culture, the community learns important — and sometimes uncomfortable — lessons from one another, resulting in more conscientious global leaders and citizens. Please respond to one of the following prompts (200 words maximum) Select the prompt to which you will respond. Q1: Share a time when you learned something related to diversity, equity or inclusion that was previously unknown to you. How did this experience impact your perspective? Q2: Share a time when you advocated for a perspective, identity, or community different from your own. How did this experience impact your worldview? Darden again has built upon last year’s essay question by adding a second option for candidates to answer. This question covers a topic that continues to be important to leading MBA programs. A personal or professional example would work here. However, Personal MBA Coach encourages candidates to look at their applications holistically when selecting a story to discuss here. You want to ensure this story fits with who you are and that your application includes a nice balance of personal and professional stories. Ensure that you limit the amount of time spent on set-up and instead focus on your thoughts and actions. While remaining authentic is important, think about the qualities Darden is looking for from applicants and make sure the story selected clearly SHOWS how you demonstrated them. While the bulk of this essay should be focused on the story itself, be sure to leave time to discuss the implications of this experience and how this experience changed your leadership style.  Essay 4: Darden’s Career Center delivers personalized career searches, support and resources to empower students in their goals to create value as purpose-driven leaders. The team of dedicated, expert career coaches spans every major industry, function and geography and collectively represent over one hundred years of coaching experience. Coaches are prepared to support students wherever they are in their search, as career goals shift and evolve while pursuing an MBA. Through a wide variety of career-related programming, students gain lifelong skills they will continue to leverage throughout their careers. And this support continues after graduation – All Darden graduates have access to complimentary career support for life through Darden’s Alumni Career Services. What is your short-term, post-MBA goal and how does it align with the long-term vision you have for your career? (150 words maximum) This question is a straightforward career goals question. If you need help articulating your goals, check out this blog! With this short essay, be specific and include both your ideal position and organization type. Articulate what you hope to accomplish in this desired role and why this objective is interesting and important to you. Unlike last year, Darden now specifically asks candidates about their long-term vision. Given this, be sure to discuss what you hope to learn in the short term and how this experience will prepare you to achieve your long-term goals. Short Answer: The Batten Foundation Worldwide Scholarship provides all Darden students in our full-time MBA program with an opportunity to participate in a Darden Worldwide Course. If you could choose any location in the world, where would you want to travel, and why? (50 words maximum) The “why” is more important than the “what” here. When selecting a country (and considering what you hope to learn from this experience), assess your overall story, goals and passions. Naturally, it may be good to have a tie. Further, the learnings or experience should prepare you to achieve long-term success. Also feel free to use this opportunity to describe a different side of you that is not reflected elsewhere. That said, as much as you might love to sit on the beach in Fiji, this would not be a great choice for most candidates. About Personal MBA Coach: Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing and mock interviews. Our team includes a former M7 admissions director and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6.5M in scholarships! The post University of Virginia Darden MBA Application Essay Analysis 2021-2022 appeared first on Personal MBA Coach. |
01 Jun 2021, 18:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Michigan Ross Essay Advice and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 |
|
The University of Michigan Ross School of Business has released its application deadlines and essays for this season. While the school offered four application rounds last year, they are returning to three rounds for the upcoming season. The upcoming Michigan Ross application deadlines are as follows: Round 1: September 20, 2021 Round 2: January 10, 2022 Round 3: April 4, 2022 This year, the school is minimizing changes and keeping all essay questions the same. Once again, brevity is particularly crucial due to the number of short answer prompts and length of the career goals essay. Michigan Ross’s 2021-2022 MBA Essays: Please see below for Personal MBA Coach’s advice on how to approach the Michigan Ross MBA essays. Part 1: Short-answer questions Select one prompt from each group of the two groups below. Respond to each selected prompt in 100 words or less (<100 words each; 200 words total). Every word counts here — the tight word count is intentional to force you to focus. Group 1 I want people to know that I: I made a difference when I: I was aware that I was different when: Group 2 I am out of my comfort zone when: I was humbled when: I was challenged when:  While not explicitly stated, with a more traditional career focused essay to follow, consider your personal background as you answer these short questions. Pick the prompt that resonates best with you as there is no preferred option. For Group 1, think about your most unique attribute or accomplishment. What sets you apart from other applicants? A personal accomplishment or a fond personal success story would work well here. Volunteer or extracurricular stories could also be good to cover. If you have a unique skill or talent, Group 1 would be a good place to share it. If you did something amazing that is not on your resume or that you want to call more attention to, that would also work well for this prompt. Other options for this prompt include examples of passions or values. Remember, MBA admissions directors aspire to bring a well-rounded group of students to campus each year. This is your chance to share something about your upbringing or personality that will position you to add another perspective to class discussions. For the second group, show the reader a bit about your character. What would working and studying with you be like? This is not the time to sing your own praises but instead the time to show you are human. Show what you have gained from this experience and let the reader see that you are someone students would want to be around. Alternatively, these prompts give candidates the opportunity to show an area of relative weakness. Authenticity and growth are key hot points for many admissions committee members. Candidates are applying to business school to grow and are not expected to be “perfect” when they arrive. Discussing a challenge that you have overcome and/or will continue to overcome could be a nice choice here.  Part 2: Career Goal Essay Michigan Ross is a place where people from all backgrounds with different career goals can thrive. What is your short-term career goal and why? (200 words) With just 200 words, there is a lot to cover in a small amount of space. Be straightforward here. If you need help thinking through your goals, we have published a blog with our general tips. Once you have clearly stated your short-term career goal, you will want to explain the why behind this goal. There are many questions you should consider as you answer the why behind these goals. What attracts you to your chosen field? Why are you passionate about it? How will this short-term goal help prepare you for your long-term goal? Optional statement: Is there something in your resume or application that could use some explanation? You might want to discuss the completion of supplemental coursework, employment gaps, academic issues, etc. Feel free to use bullet points where appropriate. The optional Michigan Ross essay should only be answered by those with extenuating circumstances. Read more on our approach to optional essays here. About Personal MBA Coach: Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing and mock interviews. Our team includes a former M7 admissions director and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6.5M in scholarships! The post Michigan Ross Essay Advice and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 appeared first on Personal MBA Coach. |
03 Jun 2021, 13:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Evaluating Different Types of MBA Programs |
|
Getting an MBA does not necessarily require taking two years off from work. While the traditional two-year program might be the best fit for many MBA hopefuls, there are an increasing number of alternatives you can consider based on your personal circumstances and goals. All programs teach the same general curriculum, often by some of the same faculty. However, full-time MBA programs tend to have more students who are looking for a career change and are interested in a more intense program with a heavy networking and social component in addition to the academics. Of course, many part-time MBA graduates also go on to seek new employment and/or change industries completely. Executive MBA programs tend to cater to students with more and more varied years of experience compared to the traditional 3 to 7 years for most full-time MBA programs. Wondering if one of these nontraditional options might be right for you? Below, Personal MBA Coach shares some of the factors tipping the scale for each program. Executive MBA Executive MBA programs are geared to higher-level executives and members of senior management. Entrepreneurs who run their own businesses also can fit well into EMBA classes. EMBA students tend to have more leadership experience than part-time MBA students, though the required experience varies greatly by school. Personal MBA Coach sends applicants with as little as 5 to 6 years of experience to some EMBA programs, whereas others are looking for 10 to 12+ years of work experience. At MIT Sloan, for example, applicants have an average of more than 17 years of experience. Successful candidates also often have international leadership expertise, though this is not required for admission. EMBA students are generally not looking to change roles immediately, although recruiting is certainly possible from the program. Much of the recruiting happens through internal networking, often with fellow EMBA classmates. Want to learn more about top EMBA programs and which one might be right for you? Take a look at our EMBA Programs eBook.  Part-Time MBA Part-time MBA programs are geared to professionals in the early or middle part of their careers who want the experience of an MBA without taking time off work. Students usually fall below 37 years old and are trending younger, with the majority falling between 27 and 32. By enrolling in a part-time program, students are able to reduce the overall cost of an MBA because, in most cases, they do not have to forego two years of salary to earn the degree. Part-time MBA classes are held at night, over the weekend, or both, and they can be completed in different amounts of time depending on the school, the schedule the student wants to have, and how many courses a student decides to enroll in each year. This program can take longer and may offer fewer recruiting opportunities, but recruiting still happens both on campus and through individual networks. One of Personal MBA Coach’s first part-time clients went to NYU Stern many years ago and has a leading job at Google today! A part-time MBA can be financially and logistically attractive, especially if a short-term career switch is not your key motivator for pursuing an MBA. One-Year MBA For those who want to dedicate themselves full time to their studies but do not need an internship, a one-year MBA may be an attractive option. If you are not switching industries or roles, the standard recruiting process may not be necessary. One-year MBA programs provide fewer networking, recruiting and community-building opportunities. However, for those candidates who can’t afford to take two full years out of the workforce, they can be a good choice.  Deferred MBA A growing number of top business schools offer deferred MBA programs in which current undergraduate students can apply during their senior year, with the intention to work after graduation for a couple of years before enrolling in an MBA program. This gives students the chance to lock in a top MBA program before entering the workforce. Harvard Business School’s 2+2 and Stanford’s Deferred Enrollment Program are some of the best-known deferred MBA programs; students accepted into these programs work for two years before starting on campus. Taking a slightly different approach, Yale SOM’s Silver Scholars Program allows students to study in an MBA program immediately upon finishing college. After one year of MBA studies, students join the workforce for a year before returning to Yale SOM for the third year to finish their MBA. Kellogg, Berkeley Haas, Wharton, Columbia Business School, Chicago Booth, UVA Darden, and MIT Sloan are other top business schools that offer deferred MBA programs. Download our Deferred MBA eBook to learn more about these programs.With later spring deadlines, candidates finish the undergraduate recruiting process and secure full-time job placement (hopefully) before applying. Successful applicants have already demonstrated considerable leadership through internships and extracurricular activities, either on or off-campus. They also have a strong sense of their career goals, though this often becomes clear only after working with a consultant on the applications. While these programs are competitive, they are a good option for high achievers looking to get a jump on the MBA application process. Unsure which is right for you? Personal MBA Coach advises candidates through all types of business school applications and can guide you on which is the best fit for your unique situation. Sometimes, candidates will apply to more than one program type and select the one with the most attractive package. We can talk through whether this is an ideal strategy for you. About Personal MBA Coach: Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing and mock interviews. Our team includes a former M7 admissions director and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6M in scholarships! The post Evaluating Different Types of MBA Programs appeared first on Personal MBA Coach. |
08 Jun 2021, 13:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Kellogg Essay Advice and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 |
|
Once again, Kellogg School of Management asks applicants to answer two essay questions. This year, Kellogg is minimizing changes by keeping the same two MBA application essays from the previous cycle and changing only one of the video essays. However, Kellogg did announce a change that may be welcomed by many MBA hopefuls. Instead of selecting just one program during the application process, applicants can select their top choice and then rank additional programs for which they would like to be considered. This is a victory as we have consulted Kellogg about the importance of allowing candidates to express interest in multiple schools and after a few years, we are happy to see this change has been made. The 2021-2022 Kellogg MBA application deadlines are as follows: Round 1: September 15, 2021 Round 2: January 5, 2022 Round 3: April 6, 2022 Read Personal MBA Coach’s top tips for tackling Kellogg’s MBA essays below! Both of Kellogg’s MBA application essays are fairly broad, giving candidates the opportunity to reflect on and discuss multiple aspects of their candidacy. However, remember to strive for quality over quantity when crafting your essays. With a 450-word limit for each, your responses should be particularly succinct. Essay 1: 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) Many candidates are likely to share a professional story to answer this first prompt. However, strong leadership examples in your extracurricular activities could also work well here. Keep in mind the request for a recent example when developing your response to this first application essay. Be sure to think of a significant undertaking where you can clearly demonstrate the value you added. This story also should be easy enough to explain that you do not have to waste too many words setting up the situation. A strong essay will discuss the actions you took and show how these actions required you to demonstrate bravery and leadership. Equally as important as what you did is what you learned from this experience. Learnings should be specific. Ideally, you would also mention how you have carried these learnings forward to future endeavors. A strong answer not only will demonstrate leadership experience but also will highlight your strengths and specific skills. Essay 2: 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 second Kellogg MBA essay is a challenging one as it forces candidates to reflect on what truly drives and motivates them. Authenticity will be key when developing your answer to this question. Admissions committee members want passionate students and well-rounded classes. So do not simply tailor your answer to what you think admissions committee members want to hear (a common MBA application misconception). Instead, you should write about the values that you have repeatedly demonstrated throughout your life. For each value selected, discuss WHY this value is important to you and show HOW you have integrated this value into your life. While you do not want a laundry list, you should include more than one value in your response. Candidates also should include some personal detail so that the reader can better understand how this value has influenced their actions, beliefs, and aspirations. It is particularly crucial that you have someone who knows you well read through this essay to ensure it is authentic. Of course, this is a good idea for all essay questions.  Additional Kellogg Application Essays Kellogg requires candidates considering options other than the full-time MBA to answer these additional essay questions. One-Year 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) With this short and straightforward essay, we advise applicants to be very direct both in terms of their career goal (need help on approaching a career goal essay?) and how Kellogg will help. Be specific here, outlining what you will take advantage of on campus and how each opportunity will help you. 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 strong technical and business skills; many firms struggle to find leaders with both skillsets. 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) With this essay, be very specific in the story you tell. You will want to clearly articulate your understanding of this challenge. While not specifically asked, candidates would benefit from sharing the work they have already done in this space. Finally, as with the one-year essay question, outline how an MBA and the offerings within the MBAi program specifically will prepare you to solve this disconnect in the future. 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) Only applicants to Kellogg’s MMM program should answer this question. For those unfamiliar with the MMM program, it is a dual degree program offering graduates both an MBA from Kellogg and an MS in Design Innovation from the Segal Design Institute at the McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science. For this essay, select just one value. The value you select is less important than the accompanying story. With only 250 words both to tell the story and tie it to Kellogg’s MMM program, pick a story that is easy to explain. Be sure you can show the reader how you lived this value, clearly explaining your actions. Finally, help the reader to understand why this value matters to you and how it will shape your MMM experience. This is a lot to cover so choose your words carefully. Reapplicants are also required to answer one additional question: Since your previous application, what steps have you taken to strengthen your candidacy? (250 words) Check out Personal MBA Coach’s tips for addressing reapplicant essays here.  Video Essay Questions “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.” Finally, the Kellogg video essay questions remain from the previous year as well. This component of the application offers admissions committee members the chance to learn more about you on a personal level. Once you submit your application and payment, you will be able to access the video essay through your application status page. You will be asked to answer three questions: Video essay 1: Please introduce yourself to the admissions committee. Consider this your opportunity to share what you would want your future Kellogg classmates and our admissions committee to know about you. What makes you, you? Video essay 2: What path are you interested in pursuing, how will you get there, and why is this program right for you? This is an intentionally broad question so you can answer honestly and meaningfully. We want to know why you’re pursuing an MBA and why you’re choosing a particular Kellogg Full-Time Program. Video essay 3: This question will be based on a challenge you’ve faced and what you’ve learned from it. Read Personal MBA Coach’s tips for handling videos and other application extras here. About Personal MBA Coach: Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing, and mock interview. Our team includes former M7 admissions directors and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6.5M in scholarships! The post Kellogg Essay Advice and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 appeared first on Personal MBA Coach. |
09 Jun 2021, 08:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Kellogg Essay Advice and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 |
|
Once again, Kellogg School of Management asks applicants to answer two essay questions. This year, Kellogg is minimizing changes by keeping the same two MBA application essays from the previous cycle and changing only one of the video essays. However, Kellogg did announce a change that may be welcomed by many MBA hopefuls. Instead of selecting just one program during the application process, applicants can select their top choice and then rank additional programs for which they would like to be considered. This is a victory as we have consulted Kellogg about the importance of allowing candidates to express interest in multiple schools and after a few years, we are happy to see this change has been made. The 2021-2022 Kellogg MBA application deadlines are as follows: Round 1: September 15, 2021 Round 2: January 5, 2022 Round 3: April 6, 2022 Read Personal MBA Coach’s top tips for tackling Kellogg’s MBA essays below! Both of Kellogg’s MBA application essays are fairly broad, giving candidates the opportunity to reflect on and discuss multiple aspects of their candidacy. However, remember to strive for quality over quantity when crafting your essays. With a 450-word limit for each, your responses should be particularly succinct. Essay 1: 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) Many candidates are likely to share a professional story to answer this first prompt. However, strong leadership examples in your extracurricular activities could also work well here. Keep in mind the request for a recent example when developing your response to this first application essay. Be sure to think of a significant undertaking where you can clearly demonstrate the value you added. This story also should be easy enough to explain that you do not have to waste too many words setting up the situation. A strong essay will discuss the actions you took and show how these actions required you to demonstrate bravery and leadership. Equally as important as what you did is what you learned from this experience. Learnings should be specific. Ideally, you would also mention how you have carried these learnings forward to future endeavors. A strong answer not only will demonstrate leadership experience but also will highlight your strengths and specific skills. Essay 2: 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 second Kellogg MBA essay is a challenging one as it forces candidates to reflect on what truly drives and motivates them. Authenticity will be key when developing your answer to this question. Admissions committee members want passionate students and well-rounded classes. So do not simply tailor your answer to what you think admissions committee members want to hear (a common MBA application misconception). Instead, you should write about the values that you have repeatedly demonstrated throughout your life. For each value selected, discuss WHY this value is important to you and show HOW you have integrated this value into your life. While you do not want a laundry list, you should include more than one value in your response. Candidates also should include some personal detail so that the reader can better understand how this value has influenced their actions, beliefs, and aspirations. It is particularly crucial that you have someone who knows you well read through this essay to ensure it is authentic. Of course, this is a good idea for all essay questions. Additional Kellogg Application Essays Kellogg requires candidates considering options other than the full-time MBA to answer these additional essay questions. One-Year 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) With this short and straightforward essay, we advise applicants to be very direct both in terms of their career goal (need help on approaching a career goal essay?) and how Kellogg will help. Be specific here, outlining what you will take advantage of on campus and how each opportunity will help you. 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 strong technical and business skills; many firms struggle to find leaders with both skillsets. 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) With this essay, be very specific in the story you tell. You will want to clearly articulate your understanding of this challenge. While not specifically asked, candidates would benefit from sharing the work they have already done in this space. Finally, as with the one-year essay question, outline how an MBA and the offerings within the MBAi program specifically will prepare you to solve this disconnect in the future. 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) Only applicants to Kellogg’s MMM program should answer this question. For those unfamiliar with the MMM program, it is a dual degree program offering graduates both an MBA from Kellogg and an MS in Design Innovation from the Segal Design Institute at the McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science. For this essay, select just one value. The value you select is less important than the accompanying story. With only 250 words both to tell the story and tie it to Kellogg’s MMM program, pick a story that is easy to explain. Be sure you can show the reader how you lived this value, clearly explaining your actions. Finally, help the reader to understand why this value matters to you and how it will shape your MMM experience. This is a lot to cover so choose your words carefully. Reapplicants are also required to answer one additional question: Since your previous application, what steps have you taken to strengthen your candidacy? (250 words) Check out Personal MBA Coach’s tips for addressing reapplicant essays here. Video Essay Questions “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.” Finally, the Kellogg video essay questions remain from the previous year as well. This component of the application offers admissions committee members the chance to learn more about you on a personal level. Once you submit your application and payment, you will be able to access the video essay through your application status page. You will be asked to answer three questions: Video essay 1: Please introduce yourself to the admissions committee. Consider this your opportunity to share what you would want your future Kellogg classmates and our admissions committee to know about you. What makes you, you? Video essay 2: What path are you interested in pursuing, how will you get there, and why is this program right for you? This is an intentionally broad question so you can answer honestly and meaningfully. We want to know why you’re pursuing an MBA and why you’re choosing a particular Kellogg Full-Time Program. Video essay 3: This question will be based on a challenge you’ve faced and what you’ve learned from it. Read Personal MBA Coach’s tips for handling videos and other application extras here. About Personal MBA Coach: Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing, and mock interview. Our team includes former M7 admissions directors and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6.5M in scholarships! The post Kellogg Essay Advice and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 appeared first on Personal MBA Coach. |
09 Jun 2021, 12:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Columbia Business School Application Updates: 2021-2022 |
|
It is time to get started on your Columbia Business School application as Columbia MBA essays for class of 2023 business school hopefuls were just released. The 2021-2022 Columbia Business School MBA Application Deadlines Are As Follows: Early Decision: October 6, 2021 Merit Fellowship: January 5, 2022 Regular Decision: April 8, 2022 Read Personal MBA Coach’s Top Tips For Tackling Columbia Business School’s MBA Essays Below! The Columbia Business School essays changed slightly for 2021-2022 applications. So, what is new? Essay 1 remains unchanged while candidates have a choice for essays 2 and 3. While the Columbia Business School application itself is not yet open, candidates should begin their essays ASAP. Given Columbia Business School’s rolling admissions, getting an early start is particularly crucial. This spring, Personal MBA Coach was delighted to welcome Nicole Shay to our team! Nicole worked as an Admissions Director at Columbia Business School from 2015 until 2021. With Nicole’s help, Personal MBA Coach has shared our tips for approaching this year’s Columbia MBA Essays. The three questions together will prompt MBA candidates to cover a wide range of information about their professional goals, plans on campus, personal stories and leadership styles. Avoid repeating yourself while ensuring that the three essays work together to paint an accurate and consistent picture of your candidacy.  Essay #1: Through your resume and recommendations, we have a clear sense of your professional path to date. What are your career goals over the next 3 – 5 years and what, in your imagination, would be your long-term dream job? (500 words) Columbia specifically asks that candidates not repeat their resumes in this career goals question. While some mention of your professional past is still expected, it should be brief and used as context to further elaborate on why your goals are attainable. This question explicitly asks for both a short-term goal and a long-term dream job so be sure to include both. According to Nicole Shay: “Your goal should be pragmatic. The committee will be asking themselves: ‘Given the applicant’s work experience + the resources/opportunities at CBS, will this applicant be successful in achieving their short-term goal?’” In addition, your goals should show a logical progression from your current experiences. If they do not, then a brief explanation is a good idea so that the admissions committee can understand how you will realistically attain your goals. Discussing your long-term dream job is an opportunity to show the admissions committee your true ambitions and what really matters to you professionally. It is important that candidates have lofty goals here but ones that make sense for them and fit with both their short-term goals and overall story. This is a unique chance not only to show how you envision your career unfolding, but also to give the reader a little more insight into who you are by adding at least a brief mention of why this career interests you. Finally, while not explicitly asked, a bit on how you will prepare for these goals while at Columbia would serve as a nice conclusion. New this year, Columbia allows applicants a choice for essays 2 and 3. Essay 2 and 3: Please respond to two (2) of the three (3) essay questions listed below:
 Below are Personal MBA Coach’s tips for how to address each essay prompt. The Phillips Pathway for Inclusive Leadership (PPIL) is a new co-curricular program designed to ensure that every CBS student develops the skills to become an ethical and inclusive leader. Through PPIL, students attend programming focused on give essential diversity, equity, and inclusion skills: Creating an Inclusive Environment, Mitigating Bias, Communicating Across Identities, Addressing Systemic Inequality, and Managing Difficult Conversations. Tell us about a time you were challenged around one of these five skills. Describe the situation, the actions you took, and the outcome. (250 words) This first option directly addresses a topic that is top of mind for nearly all top business schools. If you have a strong story here, take advantage of this prompt to address it. With a very short word limit, it is crucial to be very direct in sharing the circumstances, your actions and the result. There is no room for fluff here. Similarly, do not force this essay and be sure your story is authentic. Not everyone will have a strong answer here and that is to be expected. Why do you feel Columbia Business School is a good fit for you? (250 words) This option was the required essay 2 during the past few application cycles and takes a direct approach to addressing fit. During some previous cycles, CBS has asked candidates about their desire to be in New York City. While the current prompt addresses fit more broadly, mentioning how you plan to leverage the city would still be advised here. With only 250 words and a lot to cover, it is important to be focused and specific. Show that you have done your research on what options are available on campus and which specifically interest you. Naturally, a tie should be made between these opportunities and your career goals. According to Nicole: “In this essay, the committee is looking for which resources you are going to utilize to achieve your short-term goal and fulfill your social/cultural needs/interests. However, they are also looking at how you are going to contribute to the CBS community.” This is the time to discuss the classes you hope to take, clubs you will join and other programs of interest to you, such as speaker series or immersion seminars. We would also recommend that candidates consider culture, which as we have shared in the past is becoming increasingly important to many top business schools. Tell us about your favorite book, movie or song and why it resonates with you. (250 words) This final option is also a repeat from last year. As in previous years, this Columbia Business School essay prompt is used to get to know applicants on a personal level. Use this essay to tell admissions committee members something unique about your profile. Think here about your hobbies, passions, upbringing or values. Then select a book, movie or song with parallels to your own experience(s). Perhaps you have a passion for music. Select a movie or book about a musician with similar talents. Similarly, if you have overcome a particular hardship, a song that discusses a struggle that mirrors your own could be an ideal choice. As we often say, the what matters much less than the why in this essay. Do not pick something you think will impress the reader (e.g., “Becoming” might be an overused choice this year). Instead, pick something that you truly connect with personally. Finally, Columbia has an optional essay. As we advise for most schools, do not feel compelled to answer this unless you have something specific to explain in your background (e.g., a career gap, an unusual recommender, extreme personal circumstances, etc.) This is not the time to spend 500 words professing your love for Columbia. About Personal MBA Coach: Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing, and mock interview. Our team includes former M7 admissions directors and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6.5M in scholarships! The post Columbia Business School Application Updates: 2021-2022 appeared first on Personal MBA Coach. |
09 Jun 2021, 13:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Columbia Business School Application Updates: 2021-2022 |
|
It is time to get started on your Columbia Business School application as Columbia MBA essays for class of 2024 business school hopefuls were just released. The 2021-2022 Columbia Business School MBA Application Deadlines Are As Follows: Early Decision: October 6, 2021 Merit Fellowship: January 5, 2022 Regular Decision: April 8, 2022 Read Personal MBA Coach’s Top Tips For Tackling Columbia Business School’s MBA Essays Below! The Columbia Business School essays changed slightly for 2021-2022 applications. So, what is new? Essay 1 remains unchanged while candidates have a choice for essays 2 and 3. While the Columbia Business School application itself is not yet open, candidates should begin their essays ASAP. Given Columbia Business School’s rolling admissions, getting an early start is particularly crucial. This spring, Personal MBA Coach was delighted to welcome Nicole Shay to our team! Nicole worked as an Admissions Director at Columbia Business School from 2015 until 2021. With Nicole’s help, Personal MBA Coach has shared our tips for approaching this year’s Columbia MBA Essays. The three questions together will prompt MBA candidates to cover a wide range of information about their professional goals, plans on campus, personal stories and leadership styles. Avoid repeating yourself while ensuring that the three essays work together to paint an accurate and consistent picture of your candidacy. Essay #1: Through your resume and recommendations, we have a clear sense of your professional path to date. What are your career goals over the next 3 – 5 years and what, in your imagination, would be your long-term dream job? (500 words) Columbia specifically asks that candidates not repeat their resumes in this career goals question. While some mention of your professional past is still expected, it should be brief and used as context to further elaborate on why your goals are attainable. This question explicitly asks for both a short-term goal and a long-term dream job so be sure to include both. According to Nicole Shay: “Your goal should be pragmatic. The committee will be asking themselves: ‘Given the applicant’s work experience + the resources/opportunities at CBS, will this applicant be successful in achieving their short-term goal?’” In addition, your goals should show a logical progression from your current experiences. If they do not, then a brief explanation is a good idea so that the admissions committee can understand how you will realistically attain your goals. Discussing your long-term dream job is an opportunity to show the admissions committee your true ambitions and what really matters to you professionally. It is important that candidates have lofty goals here but ones that make sense for them and fit with both their short-term goals and overall story. This is a unique chance not only to show how you envision your career unfolding, but also to give the reader a little more insight into who you are by adding at least a brief mention of why this career interests you. Finally, while not explicitly asked, a bit on how you will prepare for these goals while at Columbia would serve as a nice conclusion. New this year, Columbia allows applicants a choice for essays 2 and 3. Essay 2 and 3: Please respond to two (2) of the three (3) essay questions listed below:
Below are Personal MBA Coach’s tips for how to address each essay prompt. The Phillips Pathway for Inclusive Leadership (PPIL) is a new co-curricular program designed to ensure that every CBS student develops the skills to become an ethical and inclusive leader. Through PPIL, students attend programming focused on give essential diversity, equity, and inclusion skills: Creating an Inclusive Environment, Mitigating Bias, Communicating Across Identities, Addressing Systemic Inequality, and Managing Difficult Conversations. Tell us about a time you were challenged around one of these five skills. Describe the situation, the actions you took, and the outcome. (250 words) This first option directly addresses a topic that is top of mind for nearly all top business schools. If you have a strong story here, take advantage of this prompt to address it. With a very short word limit, it is crucial to be very direct in sharing the circumstances, your actions and the result. There is no room for fluff here. Similarly, do not force this essay and be sure your story is authentic. Not everyone will have a strong answer here and that is to be expected. Why do you feel Columbia Business School is a good fit for you? (250 words) This option was the required essay 2 during the past few application cycles and takes a direct approach to addressing fit. During some previous cycles, CBS has asked candidates about their desire to be in New York City. While the current prompt addresses fit more broadly, mentioning how you plan to leverage the city would still be advised here. With only 250 words and a lot to cover, it is important to be focused and specific. Show that you have done your research on what options are available on campus and which specifically interest you. Naturally, a tie should be made between these opportunities and your career goals. According to Nicole: “In this essay, the committee is looking for which resources you are going to utilize to achieve your short-term goal and fulfill your social/cultural needs/interests. However, they are also looking at how you are going to contribute to the CBS community.” This is the time to discuss the classes you hope to take, clubs you will join and other programs of interest to you, such as speaker series or immersion seminars. We would also recommend that candidates consider culture, which as we have shared in the past is becoming increasingly important to many top business schools. Tell us about your favorite book, movie or song and why it resonates with you. (250 words) This final option is also a repeat from last year. As in previous years, this Columbia Business School essay prompt is used to get to know applicants on a personal level. Use this essay to tell admissions committee members something unique about your profile. Think here about your hobbies, passions, upbringing or values. Then select a book, movie or song with parallels to your own experience(s). Perhaps you have a passion for music. Select a movie or book about a musician with similar talents. Similarly, if you have overcome a particular hardship, a song that discusses a struggle that mirrors your own could be an ideal choice. As we often say, the what matters much less than the why in this essay. Do not pick something you think will impress the reader (e.g., “Becoming” might be an overused choice this year). Instead, pick something that you truly connect with personally. Finally, Columbia has an optional essay. As we advise for most schools, do not feel compelled to answer this unless you have something specific to explain in your background (e.g., a career gap, an unusual recommender, extreme personal circumstances, etc.) This is not the time to spend 500 words professing your love for Columbia. About Personal MBA Coach: Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing, and mock interview. Our team includes former M7 admissions directors and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6.5M in scholarships! The post Columbia Business School Application Updates: 2021-2022 appeared first on Personal MBA Coach. |
10 Jun 2021, 12:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: London Business School Essay Advice: 2021-2022 |
|
Are you seeking an MBA program with a global community and access to a major city? If so, London Business School may be a great option for you. With acclaimed professors and visiting speakers from around the world, and students representing 66 nationalities in the class of 2022, London Business School is truly a global hub. Information on the class of 2022 also notes that 36% of students identify as female, and students have an average of 5 years of pre-MBA experience. If you have decided that the London Business School full-time MBA program is a good fit for you, Personal MBA Coach is here to guide you through the essay-writing process. Once again, the London Business School application will ask applicants to answer one required essay question. This year, the school is minimizing changes and keeping the question the same as the previous application cycle. London Business School gives candidates the opportunity to answer an optional essay question as well, which also remains the same this year. London Business School’s 2021-2022 MBA Application Essays: Essay 1: What are your post-MBA goals and how will your prior experience and the London Business School programme contribute towards these? (500 words maximum) Essay 2 (Optional): Is there any other information you believe the Admissions Committee should know about you and your application to London Business School? (500 words maximum) Please see below for Personal MBA Coach’s tips on how to answer London Business School’s MBA application essay questions.  Personal MBA Coach’s London Business School Essay Tips: Essay 1: What are your post-MBA goals and how will your prior experience and the London Business School programme contribute towards these? (500 words maximum) This is a standard goals essay. Personal MBA Coach recommends beginning your essay by providing some background context about yourself and detailing your career accomplishments to date. After sharing this background information, go on to discuss your MBA goals. If you are having trouble articulating your goals, take a look at Personal MBA Coach’s six key pieces of advice here. The remaining bulk of your essay should specifically discuss how attending London Business School will help you accomplish these goals. Be sure to research everything that London Business School’s MBA program has to offer and detail what you plan to take part in on campus. Is there a class you want to take? A club you hope to join? Mention these here and clearly explain how they relate to your MBA goals. Essay 2 (Optional): Is there any other information you believe the Admissions Committee should know about you and your application to London Business School? (500 words maximum) While Personal MBA Coach normally does not advise most candidates to complete optional essays, you should consider answering this essay. This is the chance to tell London Business School a bit more about who you are and what makes you unique. Possible topics to cover here include extracurricular leadership roles or other work that is not presented in the rest of your application. This could be a personal story, triumph, or a side project you were involved in.  About Personal MBA Coach: Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing, and mock interview. Our team includes former M7 admissions directors and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6.5M in scholarships! The post London Business School Essay Advice: 2021-2022 appeared first on Personal MBA Coach. |
11 Jun 2021, 10:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: UCLA Anderson Essay Advice and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 |
|
Located in the creative capital of the world, UCLA Anderson offers access to a thriving business community. One of many noteworthy aspects of a UCLA Anderson education is the school’s Parker Career Management Center, which frequently receives praise for its resourcefulness in helping students expand their networks, build relationships, and ultimately achieve their MBA goals. If you are looking to join UCLA Anderson’s MBA Program, take a look at the class of 2023 profile to see if the school may be the right fit for you. Accepted students had an average GMAT score of 714 and an average 5 years of work experience. The class of 2023 consists of 42% women and 36% international citizens. The upcoming UCLA MBA application deadlines are as follows: Round 1: October 5, 2021 Round 2: January 4, 2022 Round 3: April 12, 2022 2021-2022 UCLA MBA Application Essays: We look forward to learning about your perspectives and plans via your essay responses. Essays complement the answers you provide throughout the application to show us your whole profile. The best applications are introspective, genuine and succinct in directly answering our questions and showing clear plans for the future. Essay 1: How have recent events influenced the impact you would like to make in your community, career, or both? (250 words maximum) We welcome reflection on any events that influenced you in your personal or professional lives, or in society in general, and look forward to learning about specific ways you want to leave your mark. Optional Essay: Are there any extenuating circumstances in your profile about which the admissions committee should be aware? (250 words maximum) While this year’s application is not yet open, last year UCLA also asked applicants to answer the following short answer questions. Personal MBA Coach predicts that similar questions will be included in this year’s UCLA MBA Application: Short Answer 1: How can UCLA Anderson help you achieve your goals? (1000 characters maximum) Short Answer 2: Describe your short-term and long-term post-MBA career goals. (6000 characters maximum)  Personal MBA Coach’s Tips on Mastering the UCLA MBA Application To write winning Anderson MBA essays, Personal MBA Coach recommends reading our tips on writing winning essays along with our school-specific advice below to make sure you are up to speed on the basics of MBA application essay writing. Now, let’s take a look at Anderson’s essay questions. Essay 1: How have recent events influenced the impact you would like to make in your community, career, or both? (250 words maximum) We welcome reflection on any events that influenced you in your personal or professional lives, or in society in general, and look forward to learning about specific ways you want to leave your mark. With only one essay question with a relatively short word limit, pick a topic that allows you to discuss the most compelling aspect of your profile. Then, reflect on the past year in light of this topic and detail what you hope to accomplish. If you have a unique career focus, this essay can be a great way to share this. Similarly, this essay could be a good opportunity to discuss your extracurricular pursuits. If you come from a location/demographic/culture that has been uniquely affected by recent events, this could be another topic. Your essay should reflect upon the learnings or realizations you have developed over this challenging year. You want to discuss how these learnings/realizations have impacted your future goals. Be sure to show your SPECIFIC plans and ideas to add value on campus and/or beyond. These contributions can span both community and career ambitions, demonstrating how the events of this past year have changed what you want to accomplish. Optional Essay: Are there any extenuating circumstances in your profile about which the admissions committee should be aware? (250 words maximum) The optional UCLA Anderson essay should be answered only by those with extenuating circumstances. That said, the program assures that no preference is given in the evaluation process to those who choose to respond to this optional essay, so please use your best judgment.  Short Answers: UCLA Anderson is likely to include two short answer goal questions (remember that the character limits include spaces):
About Personal MBA Coach: Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing and mock interviews. Our team includes former M7 admissions directors and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6.5M in scholarships! The post UCLA Anderson Essay Advice and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 appeared first on Personal MBA Coach. |
14 Jun 2021, 11:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Berkeley Haas MBA Essays and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 |
|
Are you looking for an MBA program with a small class size and close-knit community? If so, Berkeley Haas may be a great choice for you. With around 300 students enrolled in each entering class, Berkeley Haas is one of the smallest top full-time MBA programs. This past application cycle, Berkeley Haas admitted applicants with an average GMAT score of 727 and an average undergrad GPA of 3.65. The class of 2022 has an average of 5.3 years of pre-MBA work experience. Records also note that 39% of students identify as female and 21% of students have international citizenship. In a statement introducing the 2021-2022 Berkeley Haas Application, Berkeley Haas shared the following: Our distinctive culture is defined by four key principles — Question the Status Quo, Confidence Without Attitude, Students Always, and Beyond Yourself. We encourage you to reflect on your experiences, values, and passions so that you may craft thoughtful and authentic responses that demonstrate your fit with our program — culturally, academically, and professionally. Below, please find this year’s 2020-2021 application deadlines along with Personal MBA Coach’s advice on how to tackle the Haas MBA essays. The Upcoming Berkeley Haas Application Deadlines Are As Follows: Round 1: September 23, 2021 Round 2: January 6, 2022 Round 3: April 7, 2022  2021-2022 Berkeley Haas MBA Application Essays: Essay 1: What makes you feel alive when you are doing it, and why? (300 words maximum) Essay 2: The definition of successful leadership has evolved over the last decade and will continue to change. What do you need to develop to become a successful leader? (300 words maximum) Personal MBA Coach’s Tips on Mastering the Berkeley Haas MBA Application: Along with the following Berkeley Haas advice, Personal MBA Coach suggests looking at our top tips on writing winning MBA application essays. Below, we break down the Haas MBA essay questions. Essay 1: What makes you feel alive when you are doing it, and why? (300 words maximum) With this short essay, get right to the point. While this story can be personal or professional, most candidates will be best served with a personal story. This is a chance to talk about your true passions and what really drives you. For some applicants, this may be their job but tread cautiously here. Be sure to include both the “what” and the “why.” While this is not the time to brag about accomplishments, an ideal answer will be something that you have done to set yourself apart. Extracurricular work also could fit well, but be sure it is an area where you have emerged as a leader and/or have added substantial value. Be succinct and speak from the heart.  Essay 2: The definition of successful leadership has evolved over the last decade and will continue to change. What do you need to develop to become a successful leader? (300 words maximum) For many years, Berkeley Haas has pressed candidates to define successful leadership. In this essay, candidates should discuss the qualities they believe that successful leaders embody. Be specific and think about how this definition of leadership continues to change over time. Next, think about how you personally have begun to demonstrate these characteristics. Personal MBA Coach recommends including a few short examples. Finally, think about how you will grow as a leader at Berkeley Haas. Discuss, in detail, what classes, clubs, or programs will help you achieve your leadership objectives. As Personal MBA Coach generally advises, you should not include a laundry list of items. Instead, focus on a few specific areas of interest, telling the reader what you will gain from each of these experiences and how you will contribute. You want to leave the reader with a vision of how your leadership style will have evolved by the time you leave campus. About Personal MBA Coach: Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2, currently holding the #1 ranking in the US on Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing and mock interviews. Our team includes former M7 admissions directors and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6.5M in scholarships! The post Berkeley Haas MBA Essays and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 appeared first on Personal MBA Coach. |
17 Jun 2021, 08:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Stanford GSB Essays and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 |
|
Stanford GSB, as expected, did not change the essay questions this year. Once again, Stanford’s essays have a combined word limit of 1050 words, suggesting clients allocate up to 650 words on Essay A and up to 400 words on Essay B. This encourages applicants to remain focused and concise in their answers. Below, please find this year’s deadlines along with Personal MBA Coach’s advice on how to approach the two Stanford GSB essay questions. The Upcoming Stanford GSB Application Deadlines Are as Follows: Round 1: September 9, 2021 Round 2: January 5, 2022 Round 3: TBA 2021-2022 Stanford GSB Essays: Essay A: What matters most to you, and why? (650 words suggested) This first Stanford MBA essay is arguably one of the hardest MBA application questions across all schools. This challenging first question requires candidates to speak from the heart. As Stanford advises, think more about your values here and WHY you made the choices you have made than WHAT you have done. Personal MBA Coach recommends you do some serious soul searching before starting. Think about what you are most passionate about. What drives you to get out of bed each morning? If you could spend your time as you wish, what would you do? Ideally, you have acted on this passion, and it extends throughout multiple aspects of your life. Then, think carefully about why this matters to you. Did you have an experience as a child? Are you following a passion held by others in your family? Finally, once you have established the way, you should include some WHAT here. After all, a passion or cause that you have done nothing with will not be very believable. Remember though, this is only PART of this personal essay.  Essay B: Why Stanford? (400 words suggested) In this short Stanford GSB essay, candidates have a lot to cover. First, you should set up why you want an MBA. Naturally, this would include what your goals are and what skills you need to develop to achieve these goals. Then, establish how Stanford will help you to fill these skill gaps. Once again, be specific! Name classes, clubs, programs, etc. and how they will help. Finally, be sure to articulate what attracts you to Stanford’s culture. We realize this is a tall order with a suggested word count of only 400 words, so be succinct. Unlike other schools, Stanford gives the candidate discretion on how to divide the 1050 words (1100 for dual degree candidates) across the two essays. The breakdown above is a suggestion and, in general, this is an ideal breakdown for most candidates. In addition, there are two optional questions in the Stanford GSB application. Optional Question 1: 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? 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)  Optional Question 2: Tell us about a time within the last three years when your background influenced your participation in a situation, interaction, or project. We know that each person is more than a list of facts or pre-defined categories. We are interested in how your background may have influenced your life experiences. In answering this question, consider how your background, such as your work, education, skills, interests, culture, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, where/how you grew up, and/or other factors, had an impact on your recent actions and choices. (Up to 1,100 characters, or approximately 180 words) For many other top MBA programs, Personal MBA Coach advises clients to answer optional essays only to discuss unique circumstances. Take a look at our blog on optional essay questions to learn more. However, the requirements for addressing one or more of the optional Stanford MBA essays are not quite as stringent. You can use these optional essays to share other aspects of your candidacy not included in your essays. That said, use these essays sparingly. Less continues to be more here. Answer these questions only if you have something very powerful to add that is not already included elsewhere in your application. About Personal MBA Coach: Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2 by leading sources including Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing and mock interviews. Our team includes former M7 admissions directors and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6.5M in scholarships! The post Stanford GSB Essays and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 appeared first on Personal MBA Coach. |
18 Jun 2021, 13:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Wharton MBA Essay Advice and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 |
|
The Wharton School has confirmed the 2021-2022 MBA application essays. This year, Wharton has decided to slightly change the first essay while leaving essay 2 the same. Wharton has an additional required application essay for reapplicants along with an optional essay. Below, please find this year’s deadlines along with Personal MBA Coach’s analysis of the Wharton MBA application essays. The Upcoming Wharton Application Deadlines Are As Follows: Round 1: September 8, 2021 Round 2: January 5, 2022 Round 3: March 30, 2022 2021-2022 Wharton MBA Essays: Founded by a Wharton MBA graduate, Personal MBA Coach is intimately familiar with the Wharton MBA program and the culture at Wharton. We advise candidates to think about each question differently, ensuring answers complement each other AND show readers multiple aspects of their candidacy. 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) With this first Wharton essay question, you should discuss your specific short-term goals, but also think more broadly. Essay 1 allows you to reflect at a higher level on your aspirations. Think about where you see yourself in 10, 20 or even 30 years. Consider the path you will take to get there. It is also expected that you touch upon your past successes, explaining how they are relevant to your future objectives. This question does not require you to walk through your entire resume, and candidates are advised not to do so. Instead, focus only on your past to establish what your key skills are as well as how and why you will succeed in the future. As you think about your future, also think about your skill gaps and how a Wharton MBA, specifically, will help you to close these gaps. It is important that you allow adequate time to research all that Wharton has to offer. Personal MBA Coach suggests being very specific in detailing the opportunities you plan to take advantage of on campus. Discuss classes you are particularly interested in or perhaps professors you are looking to study with, etc. Do not include a laundry list. Instead, carefully think through how each offering will allow you to fill in your skill and/or experience gaps. Be sure to show an understanding of Wharton’s culture here. Avoid writing vague statements and copying and pasting content from other MBA application essays.  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) Essay 2 gives candidates the opportunity to share past accomplishments and detail potential contributions to the Wharton community. Think about what you have done beyond what is in your resume. Consider items you wish you had space within your resume to elaborate on. Ask yourself what makes you special. This question gives you the freedom to consider talents, impressive extracurricular accomplishments and/or unique professional skills. We advise candidates to think broadly here about what makes them unique and how they have succeeded both professionally and personally in the past. Then, consider how you might share these passions, experiences, and successes with your future peers. Tell the reader how you will improve and enrich the Wharton campus. Be sure to do your research on all that Wharton has to offer and to be specific on the contributions you will make. Is there a club you want to join? Perhaps there is a talent you want to share? As with essay 1, avoid listing items. Instead, select a few unique areas where you will contribute and discuss the mark you hope to leave. Then, as you discuss the specific contributions you will make, tie these to the past experiences you have just brainstormed. A strong essay will cover multiple contributions that flow naturally from your personal story, your passions and your career goals. 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) Reapplicants should use the required additional essay to demonstrate growth. We advise candidates to review our tips for reapplicants before tackling this essay.  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. This space can also be used 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. Finally, the optional Wharton essay should only be answered by those with extenuating circumstances. Read more on our approach to optional essays here. About Personal MBA Coach: Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, Personal MBA Coach has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2 by leading sources including Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing and mock interviews. Our team includes former M7 admissions directors and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6.5M in scholarships! The post Wharton MBA Essay Advice and Application Deadlines: 2021-2022 appeared first on Personal MBA Coach. |
24 Jun 2021, 14:01
| FROM Personal MBA Coach: Dartmouth Tuck Essay Advice: 2021-2022 |
|
Located in New England’s Upper Valley, [url=https://www.tuck.dartmouth.edu/mba]Dartmouth Tuck[/url] offers small-town charm while providing the resources of a larger area. If you are looking to attend a smaller MBA program but still want access to a cosmopolitan mix of cultures and global connections, Dartmouth Tuck may be a great choice for you. In the most recent reported class profile data, Dartmouth Tuck admitted applicants with an average GMAT score of 720 and an average undergrad GPA of 3.48. Information on the [url=https://www.tuck.dartmouth.edu/admissions/class-profile]class of 2022[/url] also notes that 49% of students identify as female and 37% of students have international citizenship. [b]In a statement detailing the 2021-2022 full-time MBA admissions criteria, Dartmouth Tuck shared the following:[/b] Tuck classes are diverse by design, but our students share four common characteristics that form the basis of our admissions criteria. Tuck students are smart, accomplished, aware and encouraging; no two candidates are equally strong across all criteria, and you may demonstrate different strengths in different ways. Once again, the school asks applicants to answer three required essay questions. This year, Tuck has kept essays 1 and 2 the same as the previous application cycle but has changed essay 3. Please see below for Personal MBA Coach’s tips on how to answer the Dartmouth Tuck essays. [img]https://www.personalmbacoach.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/blogs_posts-43cd84_d38c6ea1e0254b6ab00a9c72e4104000~mv2.png[/img] [b]Dartmouth MBA Essay Tips:[/b] [b]Essay 1:[/b] [b]Tuck students can articulate how the distinctive Tuck MBA will advance their aspirations. Why are you pursuing an MBA and why Tuck? (300 words maximum)[/b] There is a lot to fit into this short 300-word essay. First, candidates need to clearly articulate their goals, including both short-term and long-term aspirations. If you need help thinking through your goals, we have published [url=https://www.personalmbacoach.com/post/how-to-think-about-mba-goals]a blog[/url] with our general tips. Next, candidates should reflect upon the skills they will need to succeed in this desired career and SPECIFICALLY how Tuck will help them. Be sure to do your research into everything Tuck has to offer and discuss what you will take advantage of on campus and how. Tuck has a unique program, and it is more than just being close-knit. As always, avoid vague statements here. [b]Essay 2: Tuck students recognize how their individuality adds to the fabric of Tuck. Tell us who you are. (300 words maximum)[/b] For this question, candidates should reflect upon what makes them unique. Hobbies, passions, skills and aspirations are all fair game here. This essay also should paint a picture of what studying and living with you would be like and at least briefly discuss the role you will play within the class of 2024 and how you will improve life at Tuck. While Tuck no longer specifically asks candidates how they will contribute on campus, a strong answer will not completely ignore this discussion. Even though they removed this question, the mindset remains. Tuck would like to know how your uniqueness will add value on campus. [img]https://www.personalmbacoach.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/blogs_posts-43cd84_f13f395b8a964901b358b49e3a687f58~mv2.png[/img] [b]Essay 3: Tuck students are encouraging, collaborative and empathetic, even when it is not convenient or easy. Describe a meaningful experience in which you exemplified one or more of these attributes. (300 words maximum)[/b] While Tuck changed essay 3 for 2021-2022 applicants, the overall intention of the essay remains the same. Recognizing that actions speak louder than words, Tuck is looking to learn more about how you have demonstrated the school’s values. Naturally, the story selected should show speak to one or more of the aforementioned values, yet it should also be one that is easy to set up. You do not want to use many words explaining the situation; instead, you want to SHOW your actions. This question is yet another opportunity for candidates to allow the Tuck admissions directors to assess what studying and living with them would be like. Stories discussing volunteer and extracurricular work could be logical choices for this question. However, examples of how candidates exhibited these qualities in their personal or professional lives would work equally well. [b]Optional Essay:[/b] [b]Please provide any additional insight or information that you have not addressed elsewhere (e.g., atypical choice of evaluators, factors affecting academic performance, unexplained job gaps or changes). Complete this question only if you feel your candidacy is not fully represented by this application. (300 words maximum)[/b] Tuck also has an optional question that should be answered only by those candidates with unique circumstances. Read our advice on how to address optional questions [url=https://www.personalmbacoach.com/post/short-answer-optional-videos]here[/url]. [b]Reapplicant Essay: How have you strengthened your candidacy since you last applied? Please reflect on how you have grown personally and professionally. (300 words maximum)[/b] If you are reapplying, the Dartmouth Tuck application has a reapplicant essay question. Get Personal MBA Coach’s advice on how to tackle the reapplicant essay [url=https://www.personalmbacoach.com/tackling-the-mba-application-reapplicant-essay/]here[/url]. [b]About Personal MBA Coach:[/b] Founded by a Wharton MBA and MIT Sloan graduate who sits on the Association of International Graduate Admissions Consultants Board of Directors, [url=https://www.personalmbacoach.com/about/]Personal MBA Coach[/url] has been guiding clients for 14 years and is consistently ranked #1 or #2 by leading sources including Poets&Quants. We help clients with all aspects of the MBA application process including early planning, GMAT/GRE/EA tutoring, application strategy, school selection, essay editing and mock interviews. Our team includes former M7 admissions directors and former M7 admissions interviewers. Last year, our clients earned more than $6.5M in scholarships! The post [url=https://www.personalmbacoach.com/dartmouth-tuck-2020-2021-mba-application-essay-advice/]Dartmouth Tuck Essay Advice: 2021-2022[/url] appeared first on [url=https://www.personalmbacoach.com]Personal MBA Coach[/url]. |
|
|
||
close
