leadership essays

Dear Engin:

Both of these questions are commonly asked by most (if not all) MBA programs. The admissions committees are looking for a leadership experience that is significant to you, whether it is a professional example or a community service example. Don't reach too far back though--examples from more than 10 years or so ago are not the best idea. They just want to see how you handled a situation successfully as a leader.

As for the career objectives question, it is imperative that you communicate why a MBA makes sense for your career. Do you really need the MBA to achieve your career goals? At a minimum, you need to have a general plan for what you want to do post-MBA and how the MBA will help you get there.

Good luck!
Lisa

Dear Engin:

Generally, the admissions committee is looking for your plans post-MBA and thus how the MBA fits into your future career goals. The majority of students in a MBA program are looking to make a career change, so rarely will your job prior to b-school (or during if you are in a part-time program) be what you want to do after b-school.

If you do accept the new job at the school, you should disclose that to the admissions office as soon as possible after you accept the offer.

Regards,
Lisa

Dear Engin:

There is always the possibility you will shoot yourself in the foot. As long as you are being true to yourself and answering the question asked, you are providing the admissions committee what it is looking for in your answer.

Good luck!
Lisa