Leland+ Content Library

Manage Your MBA Application Stress

As someone who works closely with dozens of MBA applicants every year, one of the biggest differentiators among successful candidates is their ability to manage anxiety from multiple angles. Recommender hasn't gotten back in two weeks? Not sure where to begin on essays? Have to take the GRE or GMAT again after a tough score? Read something on Reddit that made you feel you're destined for rejection? It's a lot. Tons of moving parts, some not entirely within your control. From start to finish, I've seen candidates struggle with everything from sleep to self-worth. But that doesn't have to be you. Taking on the part-time job of MBA applications doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your well-being. This is where functional research and getting a grip on our health can make a world of a difference. Partnering with Rachel—a Certified Health Coach and nutrition expert—to tackle my own health has given me a deeper understanding of how my body works, and how to make good choices. After we speak to the sources of our stress, Rachel will walk us through some key physical and behavioral signs we should be aware of, and targeted strategies to keeping you healthy during (and likely long after) your MBA apps are in. We're hoping to build this event into a long-term series, so this should be the first of many. Look forward to de-stressing with you, and hopefully having some fun too.

How to Network (Without Feeling Sleazy)

How to network by targeting the right people, keeping outreach simple, and building genuine connections

Time Management 101

A beginner's guide to mastering time management, with proven strategies for prioritizing tasks, setting goals, and avoiding procrastination to boost your productivity and reduce stress.

Essay Analysis: What a Bad Essay Looks Like

Avoid common mistakes! This guide breaks down a cringe-worthy essay to teach you what not to do when writing your college applications.

Chicago Booth: Interview Tips

Prepare for your Chicago Booth interview with key insights and proven strategies to impress the admissions committee and secure your spot.

Skills to Be a Full-Stack PM

​There’s more to being a great PM than just shipping tickets. The best product managers move between execution, strategy, and leadership with confidence.In this free 30-minute session, Christina P. will walk through the key skill areas that separate good PMs from great ones. We’ll cover: ​The core skills every PM needs to master, from user research to executive communication ​What “good” vs. “great” looks like across each area ​Simple, actionable ways to improve—based on real examples and common gaps I’ve seen Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills generally or improve in a specific area, you’ll leave the session with a clearer picture of what makes a great product manager and how to become one.

Investment Memo: Tango Example

Dive into a real-world investment memo for Tango to understand startup valuation, due diligence, and SaaS business analysis.

Veterans MBA Admissions Fireside Chat + Panel Discussion

This exclusive event is designed specifically for veterans or those currently in the military interested in pursuing MBA programs. Led by a distinguished panel of veterans who have successfully navigated their own MBA application journeys, this fireside chat offers a unique opportunity to hear firsthand experiences, learn proven strategies, and gain insider knowledge on how to showcase your military background and skills effectively. ​From translating your military service into a compelling story to leveraging your leadership experience, paying for your MBA, and more, the panelists will share actionable advice to help you stand out amongst fellow applicants. ​​Leland is cohosting this event with Sitreps2Steercos, an incredible organization that was founded to help those in the military transition into top graduate programs and competitive career paths. ​Meet our panelists: ​Wyatt F, United States Military Academy, Warton MBA, US Army, helps clients write their "hero's journey" story for admissions committees, craft their resumes to make sure civilians understand their roles and impact, and nail the GMAT. ​Kelsey K, former M7 Admissions Director, partners with applicants to help them clarify who they are, what they want, and why they belong at the world’s best business schools. ​Alex S., Marine Academy, Ross MBA, US Army, alumni interviewer for Ross, expert MBA admissions coach for veterans and non-traditional backgrounds, has coached and prepped over 100+ people on MBA applications with a high rate of success.

Product Manager Take-Home: Pocket Gems (Gaming Company)

Get a Product Manager role at Pocket Gems! We break down a real take-home project to show you how to analyze and succeed in mobile game design.

MBA Resume Guide: Craft Your Winning One-Pager

Build a sharp, results-driven resume that highlights your impact and fits top MBA standards.

Leadership & Teamwork Questions

Showcase impact and collaboration with structured answers to these top leadership and teamwork prompts.

Enhance Your Visibility & Build Relationships

Learn to boost your professional visibility and build meaningful relationships. We share networking strategies that will help you stand out and get ahead in your career.

Negotiating the Offer: Compensation Research

Learn how to research and negotiate compensation. We'll show you how to find salary data, understand market rates, and use this information to get the offer you deserve.

Complete MBA Step-by-Step Application Plan, Timeline & Checklist

Applying to business school can feel like juggling too many balls at once: endless information, countless to-dos, and constant second-guessing about what really matters. In this session, MBA admissions coach M will share the structured system she uses to help applicants cut through the noise, stay motivated, and make steady progress toward their goals. Bonus: You’ll also hear directly from Vandit, an Indian applicant currently in the middle of his own journey, who will share an international perspective and what it feels like to apply these tools in real-time. The MBA Identity Mapping process has guided 100+ applicants into every M7 program, all other top 20 U.S. programs, and leading international options like INSEAD, London Business School, IESE, Esade, Oxford, Cambridge, and HEC Paris. Clients consistently say it’s transformative, not only does it uncover the deeper patterns, values, and defining experiences that set you apart, it also organizes your journey into manageable steps that reduce stress and build confidence. By the end of this workshop, you’ll walk away with a clear action plan, a realistic timeline/schedule, and a practical checklist to keep you organized and on track from start to finish.

How to Negotiate a Higher Salary

Learn the proven strategies to negotiate your salary, from the initial conversation to closing the deal with a higher offer.