Bought "Navigating" videos, but still have a quest

Launched September 22, 2008
This topic has expert replies
Junior | Next Rank: 30 Posts
Posts: 29
Joined: Mon Nov 14, 2011 7:41 am
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Thanked: 2 times
GMAT Score:690
I purchased the "Navigating the MBA Admissions Process" videos, and so far have been very happy with the content. However, when reviewing the essay segment, there was no answer to a slightly more specific question I have about my essay.

I graduated from a smaller university with a 3.88 GPA in accounting. I also have a 690 on the GMAT. I am applying to Washington University's Olin Business school. Olin only has 1 essay, and it is a 1,000 word purpose statement. Here is my problem...

Straight out of high school I attended the University of Missouri for an engineering degree. I failed calculus and subsequently left MU to join the military. Since then, I have done well in academics and accomplished everything from the previous paragraph while still carrying a successful military career. How do I represent this issue in my essay, knowing that I only have 1 essay and the 1,000 word limit? Any advice on how to approach this specific blemish would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
"Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away." ~ Antoine de Saint-Exupery
Source: — Ask Clear Admit |

User avatar
MBA Admissions Consultant
Posts: 900
Joined: Fri Jun 26, 2009 6:49 am
Location: San Francisco, CA
Thanked: 106 times
Followed by:81 members

by Stacey Oyler » Mon Apr 16, 2012 10:32 am
Hi,

Thanks for your post. I'm glad to hear you are finding the video series useful! In regard to your question about Olin's essay, I agree that you don't want to use up space in the 1000 words to explain your undergrad situation. However, Olin does have an optional essay which you can use exclusively for this purpose. Just be sure that you are straight to the point and keep it as short as possible.

Best,

Stacey
Sign up for my MBA admissions course, featuring me and other Clear Admit experts, by visiting: https://www.udemy.com/business-school

Stacey Oyler
Clear Admit, LLC
[email protected]
215.568.2590

Stay Informed with Clear Admit!
Read our Blog for daily MBA admissions tips and updates.
Follow us on Twitter for breaking b-school news.
Download our Publications on MBA programs and admissions strategy.
Visit our MBA Admissions Wiki to read and share application insights.