It is currently 29 Nov 2023, 01:28
Register
GMAT Club Tests
GMAT Club Tests
Decision Tracker
My Rewards
New posts
New comers' posts

Close

GMAT Club Daily Prep

Thank you for using the timer - this advanced tool can estimate your performance and suggest more practice questions. We have subscribed you to Daily Prep Questions via email.

Customized
for You

we will pick new questions that match your level based on your Timer History

Track
Your Progress

every week, we’ll send you an estimated GMAT score based on your performance

Practice
Pays

we will pick new questions that match your level based on your Timer History

Not interested in getting valuable practice questions and articles delivered to your email? No problem, unsubscribe here.

Go to My Error Log Learn more
Close

Request Expert Reply

Confirm Cancel

Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog

2641 posts Go to First Unread Post
Print view
NEW TOPIC
POST REPLY
Downloads
My Bookmarks
Reviews
SORT BY:
Date
Kudos
   1  ...  103   104   105   106   107  ...  133   
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Tuesday Tips: Duke MBA Essays and Tips for 2021-2022 [#permalink] New post  20 Jul 2021, 06:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Duke MBA Essays and Tips for 2021-2022


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 2021-2022
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.

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.


Fuqua School of Business – Keller Center East – Hall of Flags
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 2021-2022 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Tuesday Tips: Duke MBA Essays and Tips for 2021-2022 [#permalink] New post  20 Jul 2021, 10:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Duke MBA Essays and Tips for 2021-2022


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 2021-2022
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.

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.


Fuqua School of Business – Keller Center East – Hall of Flags
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 2021-2022 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
B-Schooled Podcast Episode #65: Career Narratives for Those with Sever [#permalink] New post  21 Jul 2021, 06:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: B-Schooled Podcast Episode #65: Career Narratives for Those with Several Employers


Have you bounced around in your career a bit? If so, you’ll need to be strategic in how you communicate your career story — and future career goals — to MBA admissions committees. This episode of B-Schooled discusses what to do if your career moves don’t look exactly logical “on paper.”

We’ll also cover how to write about being laid off or being fired, as well as what to do in your applications if you’ve worked somewhere for less than a year.

You can listen to B-Schooled episode #65 here, or on any of the podcast apps listed 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 #65: Career Narratives for Those with Several Employers appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Kellogg MBA Essays for 2021-2022 [#permalink] New post  22 Jul 2021, 11:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Kellogg MBA Essays for 2021-2022


Are you targeting Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management? Then it’s time to shift into gear. The Kellogg MBA essays for the 2021-2022 admissions cycle have just been confirmed.

The essays let you explain, in your own words, why you think Kellogg is right for you. Take some time to think through the experiences that led you here and how they have shaped where you want to go.

The following two Kellogg MBA essays are required of all applicants:
  • 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)
  • Values are what guide you in your life and work. What values are important to you and how have they influenced you? (450 words)
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)

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)

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)

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)

Reapplicants: Since your previous application, what steps have you taken to strengthen your candidacy? (250 words)

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


Video Essays
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.

– 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 question #3: Share your resilience with us.

In response to the unprecedented challenges of last year, we added a new video essay question detailed in this blog post that invited students to share how they were challenged specifically due to the nature of the world in 2020 and how they responded to those challenges.

Read more specific advice for how best to prepare for the video essay here.

***

Kellogg’s 2022 Full-Time MBA Application is now open. For more information on applying, please visit the Kellogg School MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your Kellogg essays and 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 Kellogg MBA Essays for 2021-2022 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Tepper MBA Essays for 2021-2022 [#permalink] New post  23 Jul 2021, 05:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tepper MBA Essays for 2021-2022

Are you interested in the MBA program at Carnegie Mellon University’sTepper School of Business? The CMU Tepper application will go live in mid-August. Meanwhile, here are the confirmed essay questions and goals statements for the 2021-2022 admissions season.

Tepper MBA Essays for 2021-2022
Post-MBA Career Goals

From the CMU Tepper website: We ask you a question about your post-MBA career goal as well as an alternative goal as a plan B. Tepper MBAs believe in being prepared!

Required Essay
The Tepper community is dynamic and unique. Each community member’s individual journey has shaped them into classmates who are collaborative, supportive, and inclusive. Describe how you have overcome adversity during your journey. What did you learn about yourself and how has that shaped who you are? (Maximum 350-500 words.)

Optional Essay
There also is an optional essay for additional information about your candidacy that you may wish to share with the admissions committee. Use this essay to convey important information that you may not have otherwise been able to convey. This may include unexplained resume gaps, context for recommender selection, etc. However, do not feel obligated to complete the optional essay.

Reapplicants
If you are a re-applicant, use the optional essay to explain how your candidacy has strengthened since your last application.

***

If you need guidance with your Tepper MBA essays, don’t hesitate to contact us! For more information about applying to CMU Tepper, please visit the Tepper MBA admissions website.

The post Tepper MBA Essays for 2021-2022 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Georgetown MBA Deadlines for 2021-2022 [#permalink] New post  23 Jul 2021, 06:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Georgetown MBA Deadlines for 2021-2022

Are you interested in Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business? Then get out your calendar, because the Georgetown MBA deadlines for the 2021-2022 admissions season have been announced. Note that the school has not yet published decision release dates for the upcoming cyle.

Georgetown MBA Deadlines 2021-2022
Round 1 Application due: September 27, 2021

Round 2 Application due: January 6, 2022

Round 3 Application due: March 31, 2022

Round 4 Application due: April 26, 2022

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 2021-2022 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Georgetown MBA Essays for 2021-2022 [#permalink] New post  23 Jul 2021, 06:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Georgetown MBA Essays for 2021-2022

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 are here.

Georgetown MBA Essays 2021-2022
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 500 words or less and include the essay prompt and your first/last name at the top of your submission.

Essay Option One
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 
Personal Brand: Think of a business leader or role model you admire or aspire to be. What are the defining characteristics of his or her personal brand that you see in yourself? Give an example of how you have been able to emulate these characteristics in your professional career and how your personal brand will enrich the McDonough community.

Video Essay
What makes you unique? In a one-minute video, describe the most compelling aspects of yourself that you believe make you unique from other MBA candidates. (Hint: one minute goes fast! We already have your resume and goals – share something new!) Use this video as an opportunity to bring life to your application.

Optional Essay
Please provide any information you would like to add to your application that you have not otherwise included. (500 words or fewer)

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. (500 words or fewer)

***

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 2021-2022 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Face Off: Stanford GSB vs Berkeley Haas [#permalink] New post  26 Jul 2021, 07:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Face Off: Stanford GSB vs Berkeley Haas
[img]https://www.stacyblackman.com/wp-content/uploads/Face-Off-Stanford-vs-Haas-734x615.png[/img]

Are you working on the Stanford MBA application? Or maybe UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business has you intrigued. Decisions, decisions! The school selection process for MBA applicants can seem overwhelming. With so many great business schools, how do you decide which one is right for you?

In SBC’s blog series Face-Off, we tease out the strengths and differences between two similarly ranked b-schools. Today, let’s see how the GSB and Haas perform head-to-head.

We have [url=https://www.stacyblackman.com/about/mba-admissions-consulting-team/]former Admissions Officers[/url] from Stanford GSB and Berkeley Haas on our team. We thank them for sharing the thoughtful advice below.

[b]How do the admissions requirements and selectivity compare between the pair?[/b]
The [url=https://www.stacyblackman.com/mba-application-advice/stanford-graduate-school-of-business/]Stanford Graduate School of Business[/url] is more selective and has the lowest acceptance rate of any MBA program. Yet their admissions requirements are comparable, with test scores, competitive GPA, rec letters, and essays expected by both schools.  Regarding essays, the Stanford MBA application prompts have remained the same for years: “What matters most to you, and why?” and “Why Stanford?”

In contrast to the Stanford MBA application, the essay questions at UC Berkeley [url=https://www.stacyblackman.com/mba-application-advice/uc-berkeley-haas-school-of-business/]Haas School of Business[/url] have historically focused on personality and moments. For example, a previous Haas application essay prompt was, “Tell us a six-word story that reflects a memorable experience in your life-to-date. Elaborate on why it is meaningful to you.” This [url=https://www.stacyblackman.com/berkeley-haas-application-essays-tips/]season[/url], the school asks, “What makes you feel alive when you are doing it, and why?”

[img]https://www.stacyblackman.com/wp-content/uploads/Berkeley-Haas-courtyard_closeup-734x489.jpg[/img]

UC Berkeley Haas School of Business

Some years, Haas would ask about a favorite song. A former Haas Admissions Officer now at SBC fondly recalls her all-time favorite song essay submissions.  “That’s easy,” she shares. “It was a football player who picked ‘Always Be My Baby’ by Mariah Carey—he described how he used it to pump himself up in the locker room before each game. Another applicant wrote a very personal story about an original song he wrote for his fiancée.”

Selectivity
Class stats for Haas and Stanford are comparable, although admit odds/ selectivity is much more competitive, as you can see below. Stanford has the diversity edge where women, international students, etc., are concerned. The rankings reflect this difference.

Haas vs Stanford GSB

Class of 2022 Admissions Stats
UC Berkeley Haas
Stanford GSB

Average GMAT
730
733

GMAT Range
690-760
600-790

Average GPA
3.65
3.8

Selectivity
17%
8.9%

Enrolled MBA Students-Class of 2022
502
436

International MBA Students
21%
35%

Women MBA Students
39%
47%

MBA Rankings Comparison

 
Poets & Quants 2020
US News 2022
US News 2021
US News 2019

Stanford GSB
1
1
1
4

Berkeley Haas
8
7
7
7

[b]Admissions at Berkeley Haas[/b]
Berkeley Haas has rigorous admissions standards.  Beyond that, “Haas is really focused on its experiential learning and its Defining Leadership Principles: Question the Status Quo, Confidence Without Attitude, Students Always and Beyond Yourself,” shared a former Berkeley Haas Admissions Officer who is now on the Stacy Blackman Consulting team. “Candidates need to know the principles and talk about why at least one of the principles resonates with them.”

We also asked the former Haas Admissions Officers on our team what Haas does not want. Their consensus was: Haas tends to get annoyed with applicants who know nothing about Haas or why they are applying there. Candidates need an authentic application approach and speak for themselves and not be robotic or formulaic.

Eric Askins, current Haas Admissions Director, adds: “Candidates should be familiar with the Defining Leadership Principles and be able to craft their narrative in a way that allows us to see how they could fit into the culture at Haas.”

[b]Admissions at Stanford GSB[/b]
We asked the former Stanford AdCom on our team, “What does Stanford GSB Admissions look for?” Here’s the consensus:

Stanford GSB seeks talented, diverse, and smart people who will significantly impact business and society. Stanford GSB students seem to have this ‘X’ factor associated with them, almost like an “unexpected” trait or experience. They take risks, push beyond the imaginable and lead with passion.

We asked the same former Stanford GSB Admissions Officers, “What does Stanford GSB Admissions want to avoid?” The consensus is: People who are looking at an MBA as merely the expected step in getting credentials for their next job in a corporate/firm ladder and/or the hyper-competitive types.

The former GSB AdCom team at SBC added:

GSB’s smaller size means that it is more conscious of class balance and diversity.  GSB is more willing to consider candidates that took risks, failed, learned from their experiences, and returned more resilient than ever.

[b]How does the quality of the MBA cohorts compare, and what about the culture?[/b]
Both programs are known to be collaborative, with a self-aware, well-rounded, and inspired student culture. For institutions that attract smart, already accomplished, yet still highly ambitious people, the competition among students is kept to a minimum.

The student class at Stanford has higher academic stats and is more diverse overall relative to Haas. Nonetheless, applicants should think more about fit than generalizations.

[b]How do the two curriculums and teaching methods compare?[/b]
Berkeley estimates that case studies make up half of the classroom instruction, while team projects take up 15% of the classwork. Good old-fashioned lectures, experiential learning, and simulations make up the rest.

At Haas, the incoming class of just 296 students is divided into four cohorts of 74 students who go through the core classes together. Haas has recently beefed up its offerings in its three priority areas — innovation, inclusion, and sustainability — by adding a new certificate in business sustainability, courses in carbon footprinting, and CSR metrics.

The Haas School has recently reformed its core curriculum. It’s now enhancing training in business communications and persuasion skills, doubling coursework in statistics and data analytics, and creating a new course on leading diverse teams—likely a first for any top business school in the United States and consistent with the school’s focus on diversity and inclusion.

As we recently commented to [url=https://find-mba.com/articles/mba-school-choice-stanford-vs-berkeley-haas]Find MBA[/url], Stanford’s culture is more confessional, a ‘know thyself’ exploration that prepares the individual to become not just a skilled manager but a great leader. The first-year curriculum is designed to equip students with foundational managerial skills and holistic leadership insights.

At Stanford, there’s far less reliance solely on case studies. Team projects, experiential learning, lecture, and simulations make up half the teaching. However, teaching methods do vary by course. In classes such as “Managing Growing Enterprises,” or “Startup Garage,” for example, Stanford leans heavily toward experiential learning. However, in “Strategic Leadership,” most of the teaching (60%) is via the case study method, with about 10% lecture and 30% experiential learning.

[b]What are the advantages of being based in Silicon Valley?[/b]
Berkeley Haas is only 30 miles away from Silicon Valley. Stanford, meanwhile, is in the heart of Silicon Valley.

[img]https://www.stacyblackman.com/wp-content/uploads/structure-valley-travel-transport-herb-usa-237988-pxhere.com_-734x551.jpg[/img]

Advantages:

It is no secret that the location of both Haas and GSB is ideal for goals in the technology arena. Studying in the center of Silicon Valley provides access to industry lecturers, case studies, team projects for local companies, on-site company visits, and more. Silicon Valley is home to technologists, innovators, life science visionaries, and venture capitalists. The location can facilitate finding the right job for technology talents and interests.

Caveats:

Functions within the tech universe, such as entrepreneurship and venture capital, are more associated with the brand/prestige of the MBA program than Silicon Valley itself. Haas’s employment reports lack data on entrepreneurs and venture capital placement specifically.

Our clients usually favor HBS, GSB, and Wharton (over Haas) for the arenas of entrepreneurship and venture capital. By contrast, GSB does report graduates into both entrepreneurship and venture capital, as we would predict because of its stronger brand.

More than tech
At the same time, “These career paths aren’t the only ambitions that Haas and GSB empower,” notes SBC founder Stacy Blackman.  “For example, the Bay Area is a prime location for students aspiring toward international business. California serves as a gateway to South American and Asian economies, with many of the world’s global companies headquartered in the Bay Area.”

[b]Because Stanford is a private institution and Haas is not, does Stanford have more resources to dedicate to teaching, facilities, etc.?[/b]
[img]https://www.stacyblackman.com/wp-content/uploads/Stanford-GSB-Knight_Management_Center-734x488.jpg[/img]

Stanford Graduate School of Business

Stanford has far more resources, and it shows through its facilities, faculty caliber, etc. GSB also has fewer distractions, as it only has a two-year, full-time MBA program. Haas has part-time and EMBA programs, and it encompasses the undergraduates that are part of the Haas School.

The GSB also has more faculty, approx 100, whereas Haas has around 80. These numbers are possibly higher at Stanford because of the exclusive focus on the full-time MBA. Stanford’s MsX program (non-MBA) is a recent addition and a small program.

[b]What are the critical differences that prospective MBA students should consider?[/b]
Career aspirations should be a key factor in deciding which program to pursue. A former Haas Admissions Officer on the Stacy Blackman team shared, “GSB is more entrepreneurial-focused. GSB is better recognized than Haas for its graduates who have become successful tech leaders and entrepreneurs. GSB is oriented more to the start-up, entrepreneurial focus. Haas has more graduates going into more traditional post-MBA roles (consulting, product management, finance).”

[b]Recruiting[/b]
Recruiting trends are comparable; however, consulting is dominant at Haas, whereas Stanford has a more robust placement to finance careers. Tech is also comparable. Geographic outplacement is slightly more diverse for Stanford grads. Berkeley grads, meanwhile, tend to favor jobs more locally in the West.

Jobs & Pay Data
Stanford GSB
Berkeley Haas

MBAs employed 3 months after graduation
91%
89.5%

Consulting Industry
15%
25%

Finance Industry
34%
15%

Tech Industry
28%
32%

Healthcare
4%
12%

Northeast
20%
8%

West Coast
60%
75%

Southwest
4%
2%

South
3%
1%

Mid-Atlantic
1%
1%

Midwest
2%
4%

International
11%
10%

[b]Final notes on each program[/b]
The Haas School is known for its diverse and talented faculty, staff, students, and alumni. They have created an innovative academic culture that stresses cooperative teamwork, entrepreneurship, and a global point of view. There’s also an emphasis on new ideas and fresh perspectives. “TRANSFORMATION” was a theme of the Adcom. The program focuses on developing Berkeley leaders. Haas believes in helping people find meaningful work.

Unlike some other programs, Stanford’s GSB never publicly releases grades, keeping them a private matter between students and faculty members. The GSB offers a highly customized program. After a shared experience in the first quarter, students no longer have specific required courses but select courses to meet their own distribution requirements. With the help of a faculty adviser, each GSB student creates a study plan to challenge and push themselves, tailored to their experience level.

***

We hope this deep-dive comparison between the Stanford MBA application, the Berkeley Haas application, and everything in between has given you helpful intel as you make your school selection decisions this season.

The post [url=https://www.stacyblackman.com/stanford-mba-application-vs-berkeley-haas/]Face Off: Stanford GSB vs Berkeley Haas[/url] appeared first on [url=https://www.stacyblackman.com]Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting[/url].

[img]https://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/StacyBlackman/~4/C5nFw_EtcCU[/img]
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
London Business School MBA Deadlines for 2021-2022 [#permalink] New post  26 Jul 2021, 11:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: London Business School MBA Deadlines for 2021-2022

Are you targeting the top-ranked London Business School for your MBA degree? Then mark your calendar, because the London Business School MBA deadlines for the 2021-2022 admissions cycle have been confirmed!

London Business School MBA Deadlines
Round 1
Application due: September 10, 2021

Decision released: December 2, 2021

Round 2
Application due: January 6, 2022

Decision released: April 7, 2022

Round 3
Application due: March 25, 2022

Decision released: June 10, 2022

Round 4
Application due: April 27, 2022

Decision released: June 22, 2022

The 2021-2022 application is now open. For more information on applying, please visit the London Business School MBA admissions website. If you need guidance on your LBS 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 London Business School MBA Deadlines for 2021-2022 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Tuesday Tips: MIT Sloan Cover Letter and Video Advice for 2021-2022 [#permalink] New post  27 Jul 2021, 05:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: MIT Sloan Cover Letter and Video Advice for 2021-2022


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 thinking 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).(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:

No more than 1 minute (60 seconds) in length

Single take (no editing)

Speaking directly to the camera

Do not include background music or subtitles
As the MIT admissions committee advises in a short video, this format is all about getting to know you better. Areas evaluated include your presence, passions, and interests. Because you will need to record the video in one take, we suggest preparing for this video statement like an interview. Therefore, write down the stories you might tell about yourself—ideally personal, engaging, and revealing of who you are.

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 into 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 the MIT Sloan cover letter in the 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 2021-2022 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Tuesday Tips: Kellogg MBA Essay Tips 2021-2022 [#permalink] New post  27 Jul 2021, 08:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Kellogg MBA Essay Tips 2021-2022


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, classes, and professors 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,” said Caryn.

According to Kellogg: “We develop leaders who are empathetic, innovative and who harness the power of diverse teams to meet complex challenges.” Therefore, Kellogg has changed the third video essay this year to specifically explore how you have learned and grown this year.

Also new this year, Kellogg is allowing candidates to choose an alternate program. For example, if you decide to apply for the JD-MBA, you can also choose to be considered for the MMM program, or the Evening and Weekend Program.

Kellogg further explains: “This selection will need to be made within 96 hours of the application deadline and will include a short, 250-word essay for the applicant to explain interest in the alternate program(s). You may need to provide additional information based on program requirements.”

The short essay question is: “Please explain your interest in the program(s) selected.”
See Stacy Blackman Consulting’s Kellogg MBA essay tips below for each Full-Time MBA option Kellogg offers.

Kellogg MBA Essay Tips for 2021-2022


The following two Kellogg MBA essays are 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 in your leadership story tell the reader how you approach issues and learn from experience. “Creating lasting value” is another key to this essay, and you should 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 precisely 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 discretion in your topic selection, as long as you demonstrated leadership. For example, it might be a time that everything went smoothly, and 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 here, as long as your story demonstrates that you have left your mark on the organization.

If you choose a challenging situation, then the learning part of the essay will be vital. In addition, show you can and do learn from experience. Every leader has to learn and develop, and willingness to be open to feedback and improve will be an asset.

Do not neglect to mention 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 sensitivity to teamwork and collaboration in any leadership story 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?

When you describe how your values have influenced you in past decisions, make sure it is relevant to your plans to pursue an MBA at Kellogg. Therefore, the story you tell should provide insight into your decision to pursue an MBA and allude to your future goals. Because this isn’t a question about your entire work and life thus far, you should choose only one or two main experiences to share.

As you discuss how your values have guided you, specific examples will communicate concisely. 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 and your personality. 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, drafting the topics you want to cover and practicing your presentation. Then, writing some bullet points down in advance will help you remember and focus as you answer the questions.

Kellogg’s video essays should accurately portray your personality and demeanor. Extensive preparation will help you be comfortable and be yourself when you are recording the video. That said, it’s essential not to sound overly scripted, as if you are “acting.”

Kellogg allows you to practice with the video format a few times with practice questions before you submit 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 to figure out how to engage the audience without reciting your resume. And, if you can tell a personal story about what you have learned about Kellogg, that can help with the “why Kellogg” part of this essay.

Video essay question #3: Share your resilience with us.
This new video essay question was added specifically to address the events of the past year. Kellogg provides more guidance in this blog post. Therefore, think about your feelings about the pandemic, social justice, and unrest. Then, describe how you channeled those feelings in a positive direction.

For example, Director Bennett explains how he focused on the role he has at Kellogg to impact diversity. Our Kellogg MBA essay tip is to be sincere and introspective. For this essay question, deal with your difficult feelings. As Bennett described, he felt angry and frustrated over the past year and he took those feelings and turned them into action. Finally, how did the past year impact your life, and what have you done with your feelings? The ability to manage yourself is what Kellogg is looking for.



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 is the place to describe how your business background will prepare you to 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 and 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 that illustrates the need for this experience. For instance, you may have worked on a technical innovation that had no revenue-generating potential. Or, you led the technical implementation of a promising product that had a poor user interface or technical performance. 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 highly competitive admissions process and will require a clear explanation of what you will do with both degrees after school. Consider the unique attributes of the Kellogg JD-MBA program as compared to others, and also 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, you will need to demonstrate how you have shown curiosity, empathy, open-mindedness, and a learning mindset. Those characteristics indicate you are ready to contribute to the MMM program.

This is a behavioral essay question (“Describe a situation…”) and you will need to 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)
While answering this question, make sure you provide tangible evidence that you have improved your candidacy. Some of the most visible improvements could be a higher GMAT score or 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
If there are any areas of concern, this is the correct place to address them. Strike an upbeat tone here and avoid excuses. Also, explain your issue clearly and focus most of the essay on the correction for the problem. For example, for a disciplinary matter, demonstrate that you learned from the experience and have been an ideal citizen since.

You should explain any low GPA issues here. If there is a grade of C or below on your transcript, the admissions committee will want to know why and feel comfortable it is an outlier. For academic questions, emphasize your improved performance later in your college career or in work or classes since college.

***

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 2021-2022 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Tuesday Tips: MIT Sloan Cover Letter and Video Advice for 2021-2022 [#permalink] New post  27 Jul 2021, 09:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: MIT Sloan Cover Letter and Video Advice for 2021-2022


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).(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:

No more than 1 minute (60 seconds) in length

Single take (no editing)

Speaking directly to the camera

Do not include background music or subtitles
As the MIT admissions committee advises in a short video, this format is all about getting to know you better. Areas evaluated include your presence, passions, and interests. Because you will need to record the video in one take, we suggest preparing for this video statement like an interview. Therefore, write down the stories you might tell about yourself—ideally personal, engaging, and revealing of who you are.

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 into 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 2021-2022 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
B-Schooled Podcast Episode #66: Interview with Mike, CBS Class of 2023 [#permalink] New post  28 Jul 2021, 07:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: B-Schooled Podcast Episode #66: Interview with Mike, CBS Class of 2023 Admit

What better way to learn about the MBA application process than from someone who just (successfully) went through it? In this episode of B-Schooled, host and SBC admissions consultant Erika Olson interviews her recent client Mike. He’s about to head to Columbia Business School after applying to MBA programs during the intense 2020-21 application year that saw record-high candidate numbers due to COVID.

Mike talks about his background, the strengths and weaknesses in his profile, how he approached his essays, and how his CBS interview went. He also shares great advice for future applicants.

You can listen to B-Schooled episode #66 here, or on any of the podcast apps listed 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 #66: Interview with Mike, CBS Class of 2023 Admit appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Wharton Reaches Historic Milestone in Women Admits [#permalink] New post  29 Jul 2021, 11:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Wharton Reaches Historic Milestone in Women Admits


The University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School has made remarkable strides in boosting the number of women admits. Now, for the first time in its 140-year history, women will comprise more than 50% of the incoming first-year class of MBA students.

At nearly 52%, the percentage of women in the MBA Class of 2023 represents a 10% increase over last year. These achievements came because of a years-long effort to promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) throughout Wharton. Today, the school is led by Dean Erika James and Deputy Dean Nancy Rothbard, both of whom are the first women ever appointed to their respective roles.

 MBA Class of 2023 Snapshot


“This landmark achievement demonstrates Wharton’s commitment to providing a diverse and representative community for our students,” said Dean James. “As a female leader, I understand firsthand the significant impact that experiencing meaningful gender representation can have on women as they chart their careers.”

Even in 2021, women still command a small percentage of leadership positions in the corporate arena. If industry truly desires its organizations—and the leadership within them—to reflect the world around us, we must improve the diversity of the pipeline of future business leaders.—Dean Erika James.

Wharton builds and promotes gender representation in its MBA program through numerous initiatives. These include a partnership with the Forté Foundation, fellowships for outstanding women students, on-campus visit days for women, and conferences and networking opportunities via student clubs such as Wharton Women in Business. Students of any gender can also take courses like “Leading Diversity in Organizations” and engage with faculty researching DEI topics.

A Welcoming Environment for All
“As we do every year, we made a conscious effort to ensure female applicants felt wanted and welcomed at Wharton, and showed them the many resources and communities in our program where they can connect, collaborate and feel supported,” said Maryellen Reilly, Deputy Vice Dean of the Wharton MBA Program.

“Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to our efforts, and while we are extremely proud to welcome this record number of women to our MBA community this year, we do hope that equitable gender representation soon becomes the norm among business schools, rather than the exception.”



In addition to attaining more than 50% women admits, two other Wharton MBA records were broken: the Class of 2023’s 733 average GMAT is the highest ever for an incoming class and LGBTQ+ representation reached 7%, also an all-time high.

The class totals 897 students, including 36% international students and 35% Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). You can view the complete Wharton MBA Class of 2023 profile here.

Infographics courtesy of Wharton

The post Wharton Reaches Historic Milestone in Women Admits appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Berkeley Haas Strengthens Core MBA Curriculum [#permalink] New post  30 Jul 2021, 06:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Berkeley Haas Strengthens Core MBA Curriculum

The UC Berkeley Haas School of Business is adapting to meet the needs of tomorrow’s workforce with a refresh of its core MBA curriculum, the school announced this week. Beginning in the 2021-2022 school year, students in the full-time program will see three new courses designed to enhance communication skills and provide deeper data knowledge.

These innovative courses address a wide range of workplace challenges—from questioning the ethics of artificial intelligence to recognizing how unconscious bias impacts management decisions.

—Haas Dean Ann Harrison

The three courses added to the core MBA curriculum include:
  • Data Analytics will provide more extensive training in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and related approaches to using big data for decision making. The course is a companion to the existing Data and Decisions statistical analysis course. 
    • Data-Driven Presentations: Making the Business Case will better prepare students to make persuasive arguments using data and advanced data visualization tools. It builds on the knowledge and experience developed in the courses Leading People (mindset) and Leadership Communication (delivery).Business Communication in Diverse Work Environments will help students navigate diverse settings more effectively to improve their ability to create, work within, and lead diverse teams and global organizations. It also develops critical thinking on topics such as identity, relationships across differences, bias, and equality of opportunity in organizations.
“It’s very important for any type of program to re-evaluate, reassess, renew, modernize, and make things as relevant and useful for students as possible,” said Professor Ross Levine, who co-chaired the curriculum review task force.

After surveying both recent alumni and corporate recruiters, the task force realized there were two clear areas in the existing curriculum that needed an upgrade: interacting with people and interacting with data.



“Being nimble as a leader and managing people through change are skills that are highly desired,” said Jenn Bridge, senior director of employer engagement and industry readiness at Haas. “The pandemic has accelerated all of this.”

Jay Stowsky, who served as Senior Assistant Dean of Instruction for the past 13 years, added that the curriculum changes will make it easier for faculty “to address, with relevance to each of their courses and academic disciplines, the broader social impacts of business.”

You can learn more about the data-driven process behind these core MBA curriculum updates here.

Source: UC Berkeley Haas School of Business

The post Berkeley Haas Strengthens Core MBA Curriculum appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
STAR Method for MBA Essay Writing [#permalink] New post  02 Aug 2021, 06:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: STAR Method for MBA Essay Writing


Have you heard of the STAR interview technique? It’s when an interviewer asks you a behavioral question (which usually begins, “Tell me about a time when you…”), and you respond by laying out the Situation, the Task you received, the Action you took, and then the Result you achieved. It’s an excellent method for MBA hopefuls to leverage in adcom or alumni interviews. But did you know you can use the STAR method for MBA essay writing as well?

We’ve found that it’s a helpful way to organize essays, short-answer responses, and even resume bullet points. For example, let’s take an essay that asks you to describe your greatest professional achievement — in only 300 words. When you use the STAR method for MBA essay writing, it helps you pare down all of the information you could possibly include.

You’ll want to set up the Situation for your reader as succinctly and clearly as possible. Leave out industry jargon, acronyms, and “inside baseball” details that will bore the adcom. Remember, they want to learn about what YOU did — not the intricate complexities of your company or client’s issue.

Next, pinpoint the Task for which you were responsible. Sure, business schools are looking for team players. But if they’ve asked you to describe your most impressive accomplishment, they want to understand what your marching orders were.

The Action section is where you should expand a bit more and use this chance to shine.  Explain what you did specifically, and ideally, show how you went above and beyond in your role. Then, you can wrap up by revealing what Results you achieved. Keep in mind that both qualitative and quantitative outcomes are important to include, if possible.

After you’ve got your S, T, A, and R information covered in your essay, read through it again. Ensure the emphasis is on the Actions you took and the Results you achieved. We know it’s hard to condense what may sometimes be a years-long project into only a few sentences at the beginning. But it’s better to keep the focus on why YOU will be a welcome addition to any MBA program.

Your final task is to ensure that you’re within the word count limit and that you’ve told the story of your achievement in a compelling, memorable way.

If you’re in the thick of writing your essays right now, you don’t want to miss B-Schooled podcast episode #15 on six common essay-writing mistakes to avoid. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher,or TuneIn!

When using the STAR method for MBA essay writing, always keep this in mind:



 

 

 

 

 

Until next time,

The team at Stacy Blackman Consulting

***

If you enjoyed this article, please sign up for the SBC newsletter, where you’ll receive our expert advice on all aspects of the MBA application process delivered straight in your inbox each week.

The post STAR Method for MBA Essay Writing appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Tuesday Tips: Cambridge MBA Essays and Tips for 2021-2022 [#permalink] New post  03 Aug 2021, 04:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Cambridge MBA Essays and Tips for 2021-2022


Are you getting ready to prepare an application for Judge Business School at Cambridge? The Cambridge MBA essays are out, and we have the latest tips for you! As part of a world-class campus and a location that is a center for technology and business, Judge Business School offers an excellent MBA program.

(Our post Getting a European MBA: A Unique Experience explains the many benefits of studying across the pond.)

To learn more about the Cambridge MBA program, you can chat with current students, read student blogs, and, for now, at least, attend virtual admissions events. The Judge admissions team seeks ambitious, innovative, and confident students with strong interpersonal skills.

International experience is another essential attribute for Cambridge MBA applicants. Although none of the Cambridge MBA essays specifically ask about it, you can work your global outlook into one or more essay responses.

For guidance on your Cambridge MBA essays, contact Stacy Blackman Consulting. And to learn more about the Cambridge MBA, visit the Cambridge Judge website.

Cambridge MBA Essays for 2021-2022
Required Essay 1
Please provide a personal statement. It should not exceed 500 words and must address the following questions:

What are your short, and long-term, career objectives, and what skills/characteristics do you already have that will help you achieve them?

What actions will you take before and during the MBA to contribute to your career outcome?

If you are unsure of your post-MBA career path, how will the MBA equip you for the future?
This personal statement essay asks you to explain why you are pursuing an MBA. If you have a specific long- and short-term career objective in mind, that is one way to structure the essay. And, if not, you will want to explain why an MBA is the right next step for you in your life.

This essay gives you the space to talk about the career accomplishments that make you most proud. Also, you will show that you are motivated and ambitious. In addition, you are ready for the challenge of an MBA at Cambridge. Use an equal amount of space to explain how you plan to enhance your career before and during your MBA to accomplish your goals.

What can you learn from your current job before you enroll at Judge? Which classes, professors, and projects will you pursue to prepare yourself for your next career step? If you are not exactly sure what you will do next, how will the MBA enhance the skills you already have?

As you write your Cambridge MBA essays, keep in mind that Judge is seeking candidates who “are highly motivated and ambitious, thrive under pressure, and have already exhibited clear progression within their career.”

For this essay, show that you have performed well and moved up within your jobs since you began working. Finally, demonstrate what you have learned and how you plan to further hone your developing skills through an MBA and future career.

Required Essay 2
Describe a difficult decision that you had to make. What did you learn from this, and how have you changed as a result? (up to 200 words)
Difficult decisions seem very stressful at the time. Yet, they can also lead to growth and increased self-awareness. As you approach this question, reflect on what the process of making the decision taught you.

This essay is mostly about what you learned and how you have changed. First, take a few sentences to explain the situation and failure. Then, dive into how you made the decision. Did you ask others for their input? How did you evaluate the information you had or seek more information? Then, write about what you learned as a result of your decision.

Finally, consider using either a personal or professional example. Any topic can work here as long as you can show something about your leadership or personal qualities. However, consider what topics you are focusing on for essays 2, 3, and 4 to make sure you are describing both personal and professional stories.

Also, you may have extracurricular experiences that are also useful to describe. Overall, your goal is to present a well-rounded view of your background and personality.

Required Essay 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)
Cambridge Judge seeks students who are collaborative and innovative with strong interpersonal skills. This essay can show the admissions committee that you know how to work within a team to accomplish a common goal.

As you did in essay 2, take a few sentences to explain the situation, then focus on what you learned. Also, you can describe your style when you work jointly and how you collaborate. Don’t forget to mention how you help others do their best work and manage challenges.

For this Cambridge MBA application essay, consider if you have a particular role or skill within a team. If so, whether building consensus or take a devil’s advocate position, explain that approach here.

Required Essay 4
If you could give one piece of advice to your 18-year-old self, what would it be? (up to 200 words)
Essay 4 is the most open-ended of this set of essays. Therefore, this essay could be an ideal place for a personal story. Especially because you are asked to reflect upon the years since you were 18, this topic lends itself to introspection.

Consider the paths you took and the paths you did not. Ask yourself if you have any regrets? Do you wish you had taken more risks in your life? On the other hand, you might wish you had persisted with something that seemed boring at the time. Remember, you only have 200 words to convey the point of this essay and should focus on briefly explaining the advice and the context behind it.

The post Tuesday Tips: Cambridge MBA Essays and Tips for 2021-2022 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Tuesday Tips: Oxford MBA Application Essay Tips for 2021-2022 [#permalink] New post  03 Aug 2021, 05:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Tuesday Tips: Oxford MBA Application Essay Tips for 2021-2022


Are you currently working on your Oxford MBA application? The highly ranked one-year Saïd at Oxford MBA program exposes students to an international, diverse network at a world-class institution. For that reason, Oxford seeks engaged students and mature leaders with extensive work experience.

A great way to learn about the Oxford MBA during these still-uncertain times is by attending virtual information sessions or reading student blogs. You’ll notice that there is a strong culture of improving the world. In fact, this emphasis on making the world a better place comes through clearly in this set of Oxford MBA application essays. Conveying your deeper purpose is a core motivator for a successful applicant.

At a time of crisis, we make decisions that reflect our values. While survival and recovery are paramount, we have to be mindful of the type of world we create as we emerge from this challenge.

Peter Tufano, Dean of Saïd Business School

Above all, Oxford states, “the admissions committee will be looking for evidence of the following: good communication skills, leadership potential, analytical skills, fit with the Oxford MBA community.”

To learn more, visit the Oxford Saïd website. For assistance with your application essays, contact Stacy Blackman Consulting for a complimentary evaluation.

The Oxford MBA Application
Supporting Statement: Tell us something that is not covered in your application which you would like the Admissions Committee to know about you. (Maximum 250 words)
This Oxford MBA application essay is open-ended. Therefore, it allows you to cover almost any topic that you think needs more clarification. Perhaps you want to describe something about your personal background. On the other hand, you might want to describe a leadership role in a volunteer role.

In addition, it’s possible to use this essay to further emphasize your career goals.  Consider sharing information about your international experience if applicable. Oxford is looking for maturity, leadership, and diversity in applicants. Accordingly, this essay is an opportunity to show these qualities.

Once you have chosen a topic for this Oxford MBA application essay, you will want to explain yourself clearly. With only 250 words, you should make sure to use precise language and examples. Specific examples will help the admissions committee understand you better. For example, you might describe a volunteer accomplishment. To do so, describe who was there, what you accomplished, and how you felt about it.



If you are applying under the Oxford 1+1 MBA scheme, you also need to submit the following essay:

Explain why you see this as particularly beneficial for you and how it fits with your career and personal development aims. (Maximum 250 words)
The Oxford 1+1 MBA provides a unique experience. You can study business for one year, and spend the other year studying topics from African Studies to Water Science, Policy, and Management.

Successful applicants will show why they have a good reason to study both. Consider your career goals, and how a well-rounded course may help you. In addition, focus on long-term goals and consider how deep knowledge in a master’s topic could provide perspective.

This Oxford MBA application essay is asking “why 1+1” and you will need a clear answer. Therefore, extensive program research will help you answer the question thoroughly. To conduct your research, consider contacting current or former students, as well as alumni or faculty. Make sure you have well-researched questions to ask of them, and a focus on your interests and goals.

Re-applicants will need to submit an additional essay as below:

What improvements have you made in your candidacy since you last applied to the Oxford MBA? (Maximum 250 words)
It’s easy to answer questions like this one when you have improved scores. However, even if your improvements are less tangible, this essay allows you to express them.

First, consider what you have learned since you last applied. Second, think about any advancements at work. Third, review your outside activities for any leadership experiences. Once you have reviewed the recent developments, describe them briefly in this essay. Finally, make sure to explain why you are a stronger candidate.

The post Tuesday Tips: Oxford MBA Application Essay Tips for 2021-2022 appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
B-Schooled Podcast Episode #67: Powerful Resume Writing [#permalink] New post  04 Aug 2021, 07:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: B-Schooled Podcast Episode #67: Powerful Resume Writing


This week’s B-Schooled builds upon the advice given in episode 16 (“How to MBA your resume”). As we said then, your resume is perhaps the single most important part of your application materials, so it’s critical that you use that one precious page wisely.

This episode focuses on using words and language to help your candidacy stand out, and covers:

• How to choose powerful action words to begin each bullet

• Different ways you can quantify your achievements

• Picking the most differentiating academic and personal information

Listen to B-Schooled episode #67 here, or on any of the podcast apps listed 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 #67: Powerful Resume Writing appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
User avatar
StacyBlackman
Stacy Blackman Consulting Representative
Joined: 03 Nov 2010
Posts: 2499
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Try This if Your Job Seems Meaningless Right Now [#permalink] New post  06 Aug 2021, 06:00
Expert Reply
FROM Stacy Blackman Consulting Blog: Try This if Your Job Seems Meaningless Right Now


“FRESH IDEAS FROM THE BLACKLIGHT”
SBC’s Weekly Newsletter for Professionals
Everyone wants to feel fulfilled and engaged by their work. But the truth is, most of us will go through periods in life where our job seems meaningless. Thanks to the ongoing pandemic, for many, that time is now. But leaving your current position isn’t the only answer when work feels pointless. So, unless your job is crushing your soul, try doing these five things instead.

Address the cause of this feeling.
First, try to figure out why your job seems meaningless right now. We can’t all be first responders and front-line workers, but our job can still matter. Are you bored, or have you hit a ceiling? Do you feel unappreciated or underpaid? Are you exhausted by long hours? This exercise may help.

Think hard about what has brought meaning to your life in the past. Make a list of your core values, then ask yourself whether your job is serving those values. Once you identify the source of your dissatisfaction, you can create an action plan to change things for the better.



Focus on small things within your control.
The past year has taught us that we can’t control any of the things that have turned the world upside down, from COVID to the global economic crisis to racial injustice. “When you’re feeling overwhelmed, obsessing over the big things that you can’t influence is bad for your mental well-being,” write a pair of researchers in the Harvard Business Review. “Instead, try to act on whatever aspect of the situation is still in your control, no matter how minor.”

Try job crafting.
The idea behind job crafting is to switch up how you think and approach your daily work. Finding new ways to incorporate your passions, interests, or special skills causes engagement and job satisfaction to go way up. By either adding or dropping responsibilities outlined in your official job description, you actively shape your role into one that brings more meaning to you and your organization. This simple change in perspective allows you to instill more value into your work—even if you consider many of your responsibilities boring or process-driven.

Create moments of enjoyment to offset micro-stresses.
Our workdays are filled with tiny aggravations, or “micro-stresses.” Things like sleeping through your alarm, a dismissive word from a colleague during a meeting, or when your partner forgets to do the grocery shopping. Each seems insignificant on its own. But collectively, they drain us like an app running in the background saps your phone battery.



Counteracting these stressors is easier than you think. “Just as micro-stresses eat away at you, micro-moments of pleasure can help you find your way back,” author Karen Dillon explains. So go for a walk or call up a friend for a chat. Savor that first cup of coffee in the morning. Reducing news consumption can also do wonders for improving your mood. Try picking up a good book instead.

Help others.
Looking outside of yourself to help others is a surefire way to turn things around when your job feels meaningless. “In a perfect world, you want to align your purpose with the mission of your organization, and you want to feel like the work you’re doing is for the greater good,” says Dillon. “But if that’s gone—even just temporarily—look for small ways that your purpose can be personal.”

She suggests things like mentoring a younger employee, picking up the slack for an overwhelmed team member, or seeking volunteer opportunities outside of work. Helping others is incredibly gratifying.  One study found that people who volunteered or supported others during the pandemic tended to feel happier. If you can tap into those emotions, you’ll be able to refocus and find renewed meaning in and outside of work.

Now, if your job still feels meaningless after all of these efforts, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. This post will show you the best way to explore career change despite the pandemic. That way, when COVID-19 is finally behind us, you’ll be ready to stretch yourself professionally and take that next big step in your career trajectory.

***

Huzzah! You made it to the end of the post! This action plan for when your job seems meaningless originally appeared on 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 Try This if Your Job Seems Meaningless Right Now appeared first on Stacy Blackman Consulting - MBA Admissions Consulting.
This Blog post was imported into the forum automatically. We hope you found it helpful. Please use the Kudos button if you did, or please PM/DM me if you found it disruptive and I will take care of it. -BB

_________________
Stacy Blackman Consulting is the only MBA admissions firm with a complete panel of former Admissions Officers from every M7 program and the elite European MBA programs. If you are looking for guidance on your MBA application, we can help with hourly and comprehensive consulting services. Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with the Stacy Blackman Team? Contact us to learn more.
Signature Read More
GMAT Club Bot
gmatclubot
Try This if Your Job Seems Meaningless Right Now [#permalink]
06 Aug 2021, 06:00
NEW TOPIC
POST REPLY
Downloads
My Bookmarks
Reviews
   1  ...  103   104   105   106   107  ...  133   

cron

Powered by phpBB © phpBB Group | Emoji artwork provided by EmojiOne
Main navigation
GMAT Resources
Partners
MBA Resources
www.gmac.com|www.mba.com | | GMAT Club Rules | Terms and Conditions