MBA Essays are a reflection of who you are and why do you belong to this prestigious school. A good B School receives over 1000 applicants for every seat. An essay should help you differentiate yourself from other applicants and help you secure your admission.
A resume is a summary of the work you have done and accomplished. An essay, on the other hand, is a way to narrate those stories and tie all the pieces of your B-School application. MBA essays provide the admissions committee with a chance to understand the applicant’s personality, motivations, and qualifications beyond their test scores, GPA, and work experience. The essays also give the admissions committee insight into how well the applicant can communicate, think critically, and express themselves. The essays reflect how well the applicant will fit with the school’s culture, values and how they will contribute to the class. Additionally, MBA essays allow the applicant to demonstrate their knowledge of the MBA program and how it will help them achieve their future career goals. Overall, MBA essays are an important tool for the admissions committee to evaluate the applicant’s fit and potential for the program.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind and reflect on while you write your essay:
- Research the School and convey why you are a good fit
Don’t state a generic statement : “I am an ideal candidate”. Talk about why are you an ideal candidate.
Example: “I have a strong background in finance, having worked as a financial analyst for several years. My experience has given me a deep understanding of financial analysis, forecasting, and strategic planning. I am eager to expand my knowledge and skills in these areas. I believe that the MBA program’s emphasis on finance and investment will provide me with the opportunity to deepen my understanding of finance and develop my skills further. Additionally, the program’s reputation for excellence in finance and its strong network of alumni in the finance industry align perfectly with my career aspirations. I am confident that I would thrive in the program and make valuable contributions to the class.”
2. Play it up if you have anything unusual about yourself or your need for MBA.
Ever had a YouTube channel? Ever appeared in Shark Tank? Held exhibition for handmade items? Were a beauty queen pageant runner up? PLAY IT UP!
Don’t worry about not having enough followers. Don’t worry about the investment you did not get. Don’t worry about the low scale of items you sold. If you achieved all of that, you would not need an MBA, would you?!
3. Have you answered the question?
Why MBA? Why are you a good fit? Tell us about a leadership story. How would you contribute to class?
These are all different questions. Make sure you have answered what was asked of you. Every line of your essay should have relevance, and remember, the words are precious.
KISS: Keep It Simple Stupid. Don’t use industry jargon that an Admissions Committee member may not understand. For example, Demonetization was a big deal in India and everyone is familiar with the event. But as a banker, when I mention demonetization in my essay, does the reader understand the extent of chaos in the economy? Probably, no. Give the reader context and ease of understanding.
4. Know yourself. Be Yourself. Reflect on who you are and shine.
MBA is a journey because it helps you discover yourself better. Start the process by reflecting on your best and worst qualities, your successes and failures, and your strengths and weaknesses. These stories will help you not just in your essay but also during MBA interviews and job interviews.
5. Discuss short and long term goals.
MBA is a stepping stone to success. The reason why MBA degree is so expensive is because schools tend to believe that you will recover the money within a year or two. (Well, if you cannot, you made some mistakes!)
So, explain what long-term goal will MBA help you achieve.
6. Give examples. Weave a story.
Oh! I cannot stress this enough. All your essays are stories. And no, “This is Covid year and I was laid off. So, obviously, I have free time and what better way to utilize my time than doing an MBA.” IS NOT A GOOD STORY. The story ought to have depth and purpose. Humor or vulnerability goes a long way to differentiate yourself.