The Application Process

Hello, Im torn between 2 potential essay topics, what do you guys think would be more attractive as a story?

1. Help my father transform his computer hardware patents into a brand/business and have them manufactured in China to sell in the US.
Pro: big goals
Con: I have no manufacturing experience or business knowledge right now


2. Start a gym/supplement company in China. the fitness lifestyle is a culture and creating an image in China would motivate more people to join gyms, buy products. Help enrich lives, use my own life as example.
Pro: Lived in both Asia and US, know the separate fitness culture and body image.
Con: not very "business savvy" topic

Hi Vachir,

I'd definitely say #2. First, it seems that you are more interested in this idea and only seem to doubt that it is credible enough to write in an essay. There is nothing non-business about starting a fitness company in China. You should see the zany, off-the-wall businesses my friends and classmates from HBS have started and are working on!

Essay #2 would give you the opportunity to describe a creative business idea, share some personal reasons why this particular idea appeals to you, communicate some stories of your life in both the US and China, and then outline a convincing argument for why you need to go to business school at X institution THIS YEAR to make that vision come true.

Go for it! (And I like your business idea at first glance!)

Kaneisha