MBA Essay question

[mkuppalli]

Is it appropriate to mention the names of people you have spoken to in your essays?

I have spoken to a few students and gotten to know them pretty well, but I was not sure if it was appropriate to use their names in my essay, or if i should just generically describe my experiences with them and why it influenced me to apply to the program?

Thanks in advance!!

[mbaMissionBrianE]

Hello mkuppalli, thanks for your question.

I think it is quite appropriate to mention people you've spoken to, especially if you know them well - IF you have their permission to use their names. An admissions person speaking on the record would likely have no issue at all with you using their name. Students generally wouldn't mind, but I'd be safe and check with them first.

Moreover, I would be specific about connecting what you discussed with them to how the school can help your career. Broadly saying that a student said X school's culture was wonderful is lot less effective than talking about how a current student helped you understand how a class offering could really give you the marketing or financial derivative knowledge that would bring you closer to your career ambition.

Best of luck,
Brian