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This is Leland’s premiere package for early starters—designed for serious applicants who are more than 12 months out from deadlines and aiming for the most competitive MBA programs in the world, including Harvard, Stanford GSB, Wharton, and other top schools. You’ll work closely with an expert coach to get ahead of the application process, focusing on foundational elements that will position you for success. This package is ideal for those who want to be intentional, thoughtful, and thoroughly prepared by the time application season arrives. Common coaching activities in this package include, but are not limited to: - Profile Assessment: Get an in-depth review of your candidacy—what’s working well, where you can improve, and how to close any gaps. - Timeline Building: Lay out a clear action plan so you know what to focus on and when to ensure you're ready for the year ahead. - Application Strategy: Develop a strong personal narrative and map out the experiences and achievements that support it. - School Selection: Explore programs that align with your aspirations and start building a thoughtful target list. - Recommender Planning: Identify ideal recommenders and create a smart plan to build and maintain those relationships. - Extracurricular Planning: Strategize around your involvement and identify opportunities to deepen your impact or expand your profile. - Test Prep Planning: Create a study approach for the GMAT or GRE that aligns with your goals and timeline. - Narrative Planning: Begin early brainstorming to shape your story and prepare for standout essays and other application components. This package gives you the space and guidance to approach your MBA journey with clarity and purpose. By starting early, you’ll set yourself up for a confident and competitive application process.
A clear application strategy
Two (or more) recommenders selected and being actively prepared
A clear plan for extra-curricular involvement (if needed)
A timeline that you are confident in and can stick to
A clear profile assessment that leaves you knowing where you need to improve/strengthen your candidacy
A clear plan for test prep (if needed)
An understanding of the schools you plan to apply to
A narrative you are excited to build on and write about
Coaching delivered via live sessions and .
Additional expectations or terms of engagement may be provided by coaches (e.g. expected response times, etc.).
Services included:
Recommendations
School Selection
Application Strategy
Essays
Resume
Schedule a call with a Leland team member who can help you explore your options.
Schedule a call
Craft winning MBA essays through brainstorming, drafting, and editing
Starting at $6125h+ of coaching
Expert help on your MBA essays, recommendations, resume, and more
Starting at $4,00020h+ of coaching
Practice realistic mock MBA interviews with a trained expert
Starting at $3753h+ of coaching
Get help with Financial Aid & Scholarships, Editing, and .
Access a library of videos, templates, and examples curated by Leland’s top coaches.

Joined May 2024
5.0
7+ Years MBA Coach | Ex-HBS & MIT AdCom | Guided 2,000+ Successful Admits
About Abdi With a proven track record of guiding over 2,000 students globally through the admissions process, Abdi is the ideal coach to help you secure admission to the MBA program of your dreams. As Chairman of Sherif Academy (formerly Easy Entry Group), he led initiatives supporting underrepresented students of color in gaining admission to top institutions like Harvard Business School, Stanford GSB, Wharton, and MIT Sloan. Abdi built valuable relationships with Assistant Deans of MBA Admissions at leading programs, hosting virtual events to provide applicants with unique insights into how admissions committees evaluate candidates. Additionally, his collaboration with Poets & Quants allowed him gain unique insights into designing successful applications, generating strategies from 14+ years of data and positioning Sherif Academy as a trusted resource in admissions consulting. Passion for Coaching His journey to becoming an admissions coach was inspired by his father's dedication to providing him with the best educational resources. His father's belief in his potential led Abdi to excel academically, culminating in his admission to Harvard Business School through the 2+2 Program. This experience instilled in him a desire to provide similar opportunities to others. Greatest Strengths Abdi's coaching style is characterized by a personalized approach, helping candidates to find and express their unique stories. He collaborates closely with applicants, focusing on their strengths and aspirations to develop tailored strategies. He aims to empower candidates to own their narratives and confidently navigate the competitive admissions landscape. More About Abdi In his free time, Abdi enjoys connecting with founders from underrepresented backgrounds and indulging in his love for sports, including soccer and basketball. He is an avid fan of Arsenal and the Lakers.
6h of coaching