Essay Writing Guide
The essays are your opportunity to bring your application to life and showcase your personality, goals, and fit with your target MBA programs. This guide will help you craft compelling essays that stand out to admissions committees.
Understanding MBA Essay Prompts
Common essay topics include:
1. Career goals and why an MBA
2. Leadership experience
3. Overcoming challenges
4. Diversity and unique perspectives
5. Why this specific MBA program
Essay Prompt Database
The Essay Writing Process
1. Brainstorming
– Reflect on your experiences and achievements
– Identify key stories that showcase your strengths
– Align your stories with the essay prompts
Brainstorming Techniques Workshop
2. Outlining
– Create a clear structure for each essay
– Ensure a logical flow of ideas
– Balance storytelling with analysis
Essay Outlining Tool
3. Writing- Start with a compelling hook
– Use specific examples and anecdotes
– Show, don’t tell – use vivid details
Essay Writing Tips
4. Editing and Refining
– Get feedback from trusted sources
– Ensure you’ve answered the prompt fully
– Cut unnecessary words to meet word limits
Essay Editing Checklist
Key Elements of Successful MBA Essays
1. Authenticity: Be genuine in your voice and experiences
2. Specificity: Use concrete examples to support your points
3. Relevance: Connect your experiences to your future goals and the MBA program
4. Insight: Demonstrate self-awareness and lessons learned
5. Clarity: Express your thoughts concisely and coherently
Common Essay Mistakes to Avoid
– Writing what you think the admissions committee wants to hear
– Repeating information from other parts of your application
– Using overly formal or flowery language
– Failing to proofread thoroughly
Full List of Essay Pitfalls
School-Specific Essay Strategies
– Research each school’s values and culture
– Tailor your essays to demonstrate fit with the program
– Use school-specific knowledge to show genuine interest
School-Specific Essay Tips
Sample Essays
Review successful MBA application essays with expert commentary:
– Career Goals Essay
– Leadership Experience Essay
– Overcoming Failure Essay
– Why Our School Essay
Browse Sample Essays
Essay Review Services
Get expert feedback on your essays:
– Basic Review: Written feedback and suggestions
– In-Depth Review: Detailed edits and strategy consultation
– Multiple Essay Package: Comprehensive review of all your MBA essays
See Essay Review Options
Writing Resources
– MBA Essay Writing Webinar
– Grammar and Style Guide for MBA Essays
– Guide to Addressing Weaknesses in Your Application
Explore Writing Resources
Next Steps
1. Review essay prompts for your target schools
2. Start brainstorming your key stories and experiences
3. Create outlines for your essays
4. Write your first drafts
5. Get feedback and refine your essays