Leland+ Content Library

Deferred MBA Planning — Preparing for a Successful Application [3/5/2026] (Recording)

Are you gearing up for the deferred MBA application process sometime in the next couple of years? Join me for a session dedicated to making sure you are well prepared when application season rolls around. I'm John, CEO of Leland, and I'll be your host for this session. Prior to Leland, I was admitted to HBS 2+2 and Stanford GSB deferred, and then founded Deferred MBA Consulting. In the past 8 years I have helped thousands of people with their deferred applications. Space is limited, so make sure to RSVP and secure your spot today!

The Non‑Traditional Applicant’s Storytelling Workbook

How to build an authentic, coherent MBA narrative (without obsessing over stats). Non‑traditional candidate stories can be coherent, but often candidates just don’t know how to translate them for what Adcom wants to hear. This guide helps you translate your niche experience into MBA language.

How to Ace College Admissions Interviews

This event recording provides tried-and-true advice to ace college admissions interviews. You'll come out with a much better understanding of what the interviews are like and how to leave a strong and lasting impression. I also offer highly realistic mock interviews! Book one here: https://www.joinleland.com/coach/felipe-f-1/p/nail-the-college-admissions-interview

Craft Your Narrative, Tell Your Story: Winning Personal Statement Strategies

A strong personal statement isn’t about listing achievements, it’s about telling a clear, intentional story that helps readers understand who you are, what drives you, and where you’re headed. In this session, you’ll learn how to identify the throughline in your experiences, structure your narrative for impact, and avoid common pitfalls that dilute otherwise strong applications. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining a draft, you’ll leave with practical strategies to craft a personal statement that feels authentic, focused, and memorable.

How to Get Started on Your PhD Application

Starting a PhD application can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to begin or how to position yourself for research-driven programs. This session breaks down the first steps that matter most, including identifying research interests, finding the right advisors, planning your timeline, and preparing key materials like statements of purpose and recommendations. You’ll learn how to build early momentum, avoid common missteps, and set yourself up for a strong application cycle.

Looking for a job? The Unwritten Rules of Job Search Networking

Most job seekers will find their next job through networking - 80-85% according to one recent article. But for many of us, we've never had to network - so reaching out to people to find a job can be daunting. This session will focus on the very practical side of networking, from outreach, to the conversation itself, to following up. Join me for this 1 hour session to gain insight into how to get started with your job search networking and how to overcome the fears that hold people back.

Law School Addendum Submission Checklist

Finished drafting? You're not done yet! Make sure to run through this checklist to ensure your addenda helps rather than hurts your application package.

Ask Me Anything: Behind the screening curtain at MBB

Step behind the screening curtain of MBB with Alison L., a seasoned expert in strategic talent acquisition. With 15 years of experience between MBB, Alison has scaled and led global talent teams at McKinsey and Bain and served as a knowledge expert in BCG's global health care practice. These experiences have provided her some unique insights into their cultures and what they seek in candidates. Whether you're exploring a career in management consulting or preparing for interviews, this AMA session is your chance to gain insider knowledge and guidance.

Networking Your Way Into Private Equity

​In private equity recruiting, your network can be just as important as your resume. In this workshop, Nina M.—a former Growth Equity Investor and Analyst at Goldman Sachs—will share how to strategically build relationships that open doors to top PE firms. ​With over seven years of experience in private equity and more than 100 candidates successfully coached into competitive finance roles, Nina will walk you through how to identify key contacts, craft thoughtful outreach messages, and turn conversations into real opportunities. Whether you’re breaking into the industry or planning your next move, this session will give you the tools and confidence to network effectively and accelerate your private equity career.

Five Real Cases: Americans Landing Jobs in Europe

I have been talking about working abroad in general terms. Now it is time to share the success. I have placed many clients in jobs across Europe, and I want to show you exactly how this works. In this session, I will present five real cases: the application strategies we used, the interview processes they went through, the offers they received, and how we handled work permits, visas, and relocation. These are not hypothetical scenarios. These are actual people who now work in Europe. I am very proud of these clients. Their success contributed to my winning the 2026 Top Coach Award in the Career and Leadership section on Leland. Each case demonstrates something different: different industries, different countries, different career stages. You will see what worked, what did not work, and what made the difference between an application that went nowhere and an offer that changed someone's life.

Ask Me Anything as a Software Engineering Interviewer

Ever wondered what interviewers are actually thinking during a technical interview? In this open AMA session, get candid insights from a software engineering interviewer on what stands out, what raises red flags, and how hiring decisions are really made. We’ll cover technical screens, system design, behavioral questions, evaluation criteria, and how to recover from mistakes mid-interview. Bring your toughest questions and walk away with practical, insider advice to approach your next interview with clarity and confidence.

How to Get Started with the LSAT

Starting your LSAT prep can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to begin. In this session, you’ll learn how the exam is structured, what skills it truly tests, and how to build a smart study plan that fits your timeline and goals. We’ll cover foundational strategies for Logical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension, how to track progress effectively, and common mistakes to avoid early on. Whether you’re months away from test day or just exploring law school, you’ll leave with a clear, confident starting point.

ADEA AADSAS - COVID Essay Example

I have attached an example of my COVID Essay which can be found on the Personal Information section of the ADEA AADSAS Application for Dental Schools. The prompt and character count are also showcased!

Cracking Round 3 MBA: How I Got Admitted in the Final Round

Round 3 MBA admissions can feel unpredictable and highly competitive, but strong candidates still win seats with the right positioning and strategy. In this session, we’ll break down how to approach the final round strategically, address timing concerns head-on, and craft a compelling narrative that demonstrates urgency, fit, and readiness. You’ll gain practical insight into how admissions committees evaluate Round 3 applicants and how to maximize your chances even late in the cycle.

Equity Research Recruiting 101: Strategic Planning

Equity research recruiting rewards candidates who plan ahead. This session cuts through the noise to show how the process really works and how to approach it with intention. You’ll learn what hiring teams care about, how to prepare your stock pitch and resume, and when to network for maximum impact. Whether you’re just exploring equity research or getting ready to recruit, you’ll leave with a sharper strategy and clearer next steps.

Software Engineering Recruiting Week Kickoff

Kick off Software Engineering Recruiting Week with a high-level panel covering everything you need to know to successfully navigate the recruiting process. This session will break down what matters most at each stage, including resumes, networking strategies, interview preparation, and how to position yourself as a strong candidate. You’ll gain insider perspective on what hiring managers actually look for, where candidates tend to waste time, and how to prioritize your efforts for maximum impact. Whether you’re just getting started or refining your strategy, this session will give you a clear roadmap for the recruiting journey ahead.

Networking: The Secret to Landing a Software Engineering Role

Strong technical skills are essential for software engineering roles, but networking often determines who gets the interview. In this session, you’ll learn how to build authentic connections, reach out strategically to recruiters and engineers, and turn conversations into referrals and opportunities. We’ll cover practical outreach tactics, common mistakes to avoid, and how to position yourself effectively in a competitive hiring market.

LinkedIn Launchpad: Profile to Profit

Is your LinkedIn profile a forgotten resume or a powerful asset? In today's competitive job market, your professional brand is more crucial than ever. Join us for this free, dynamic workshop to learn the insider strategies for maximizing your visibility. We'll reveal the secrets to transforming your profile from overlooked to outstanding by focusing on the three pillars of success: 1. Discoverability: Master the strategic keywords recruiters search for to ensure your profile ranks high. 2. Impact: Learn how to craft a magnetic headline and an "About" section that turns profile views into opportunities. 3. Networking: Acquire techniques for building a genuine professional network that expands your career reach. Whether you're job searching, looking to advance, or aiming to establish yourself as an industry expert, this workshop will give you the practical, actionable steps you need to leverage LinkedIn to its fullest potential. Elevate your professional presence and open doors to new opportunities!

Next Cycle, New Reality: Preparing for Law School Admissions in 2026-2027

Law school admissions continue to evolve, with shifting applicant volumes, changing evaluation priorities, and increasing competition at top programs. In this session, we’ll break down what to expect in the 2026–2027 cycle, how to interpret trends in LSAT scores and medians, and what admissions committees are prioritizing beyond the numbers. You’ll learn how to build a smart timeline, strengthen your narrative, and position yourself strategically in a competitive landscape.

MBA Resume Guide: Transform Your Resume for Top Programs

Your resume is one of the most important parts of your MBA application, but most applicants approach it the wrong way. Instead of showcasing leadership, impact, and growth, they list responsibilities and tasks. As a result, their resume fails to clearly communicate their value to admissions committees. This guide shows you exactly how to fix that. Inside, you’ll learn how to transform a standard professional resume into a compelling MBA resume that highlights your achievements, leadership, and trajectory. You’ll get: • A step-by-step process for rewriting your resume into MBA format • Clear before-and-after examples of weak vs strong bullet points • A simple framework for turning responsibilities into measurable impact • Guidance on how to show leadership, initiative, and progression • The “First 6 Lines” test to ensure your resume makes a strong first impression This resource is designed to help you create a resume that is clear, focused, and immediately communicates your strengths to admissions committees. Whether you are just getting started or refining your application, this guide will give you a practical, structured approach to building a stronger MBA resume.