Make the Most of Each Application Component

[Stacy Blackman]

As you pull together your MBA application materials, try to think of each component as an opportunity to tell the AdCom something new about yourself.

https://www.stacyblackman.com/2014/11/19 ... component/

What we mean is, don't simply copy and paste bullet points from your resume into your data forms. Offer up new details when you supply responses for fields such as "role responsibilities," "key accomplishments" or "biggest challenge."

Similarly, if you focused on your volunteer work in one of your essays, highlight a different extracurricular activity in your data forms or resume. And don't have your recommenders tout the exact same "significant achievement" in their letters that you already covered elsewhere.

Certain aspects of your package, such as your GMAT/GRE score and your undergraduate GPA, are truly data points in the most literal sense of the word. But everything else should be viewed as complementary chapters of an interesting story-a story about you. After the AdCom is finished reviewing all of your materials, they should have an understanding of your personality, what you've achieved, what your goals are, and what you could offer their program.

Your test scores, transcripts and GPA will tell them something about your capacity to handle their curriculum. Your resume shows your career progression, increased responsibilities and demonstrated results. Depending on the school, some data forms offer a chance to add color to personal and professional achievements. Your recommendation letters can offer even more proof of your leadership potential. And your essays can give them a sense of your "voice," as well as provide insight into what makes you tick or what you're passionate about.

It's a good thing that the AdCom will be judging you on your entire package, though, right? We're all so much more than just our jobs, our grades, or our volunteer experience.

- See more at: https://www.stacyblackman.com/2014/11/19 ... rL0ry.dpuf

[max_roper]

Stacy,

Thank you for sharing a great post.

Regarding your suggestion about how to best highlight volunteer or other extracurricular activities in essays, some of your readers maybe wondering: "Well, I have 6 to 12 months before I begin my applications, how can I gain additional extracurricular experiences that will round-out my essays?"

For such candidates, I suggest that they investigate the following three organizations that recruit, train, and match pre-MBA professionals with small businesses or nonprofits in need of business planning or strategic development assistance:

1) SCORE
2) Taproot Foundation
3) USA Leadership Corps

As a volunteer business consultant for one of these groups, candidates will demonstrate initiative, analytical ability, and communication skills - which can add great substance within essays.

Thank you again for a great post, Stacey.

Maxwell Roper
Outreach Director
USA Leadership Corps (USALC)
www usaLeadershipCorps org