Like any business school, Richard Ivey will want to know about your skill set and experience as well as your future goals. A business school wants to know how you can contribute to the business school class and also wants to know that you have given thought to the program to which you are applying.

The most worrisome part of your post is that you state that you know nothing about the school. That is what you should fix first! In order to write a good essay, you will need to first do some research about the program so that you can tailor your application apporpriately.

And, as with any essay, make sure it gives a picture of who you are - have your friends read your essays to make sure they reflect you and also to make sure the essays do not have any spelling/grammar/punctuation errors!

Good luck!

Hi Jessica,

Thank you for the great post. Thanks for pointing out the punctuation errors - I just read my previous post, I normally do not write like that. Perhaps I was nervous about the application process while writing it.

I am already done with a couple of essays 250 words each. It almost seemed too easy. I am trying to put in as lots of stories about myself and try to be specific as possible about my career goals. My questions are as follows

Is it okay add humor? It comes naturally to me and I can't help myself.

I write in an informal manner is that a strict no ?

I hate jargon especially business jargon (expect the word Revenues - is it okay to keep it real? - so that they get to know me as an individual. I would hate to approach these like I write cover letters (- the most worthless thing in the Universe IMO)

I also using a quote in one essay to conclude - is that acceptable?

I have also researched the school so trying my best to be specific on what I can offer the school and what I hope to get out the program.

Thanks again for your post, Jessica. I hope you can take the time to answer my simple questions.

Thanks again,
RTC

Hi RTC,

I was not trying to point out errors in you post!! I only meant for the real essays .

As for your follow up questions, yes, it is fine to use a short quote and some humor. It is also fine to be less formal if that is more your style. However, be careful with humor (especially sarcasm) as it doesn't always come out as you intend in writing. And, while it is okay to be informal, your writing shouldn't be too casual. You still need to show you are able to be professional.

As for quotes, I like them, but it does take away from the words that you have to tell about yourself!