Appropriate essay topic

[smkrn]

Hi Lisa,

I have a question about essays. I am currently applying to the HBS 2+2 program; the first essay asks something along the lines of "What are your 3 most substantial accomplishments and why do you view them as such?"

For one of the three accomplishments, I am considering the following: in high school, I was a very average student (3.0), didn't work hard, and really had no "vision" for my life or what I could accomplish with hard work and discipline. As I started college, I more or less caught the "vision" through a few key experiences and realized my potential. Now I'm finishing college with a double major in mechanical engineering and math with a GPA of 3.99, am ranked 1st in my class, have paid for almost all of school through merit-based scholarships, etc. I've learned a number of things through this process, but this "accomplishment" really displays and defines who I am today (I will do all I can to fulfill my potential and also help others do so).

Do you think this is an appropriate topic for this essay (specifically for one of my three accomplishments for this HBS essay)? Especially because it touches on high school which was so long ago? Or should I consider something else?

Thanks for any insight.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear smkrn,

I absolutely think you should write about this defining experience in your life; it has made you who you are today. Although you reference high school, it was not that long ago and gives the audience the scope of your transformation. Additionally, it demonstrates your motivation and discipline to succeed in the MBA program.

Best of luck,
Lisa