
How to Break Into YC: Advice from Alumnus
Getting into Y Combinator is a dream for many founders—but the application, pitch, and selection process can feel opaque and daunting. In this session, join Nick V., co-founder & former COO of Relay (a YC-backed startup) and top-rated Leland coach, as he pulls back the curtain on what makes a YC application stand out. Nick will walk you through what YC looks for, how to frame your idea and progress, and what mistakes most founders make (and how to avoid them). You’ll leave this session with sharper clarity and concrete steps to strengthen your candidacy.

Columbia Business School: Interview Question Bank
Question bank covering the most commonly asked questions in Columbia Business School interviews.
Want an edge? Network where others don’t
Go beyond the obvious networking paths. Learn how to use LinkedIn effectively, reach unexpected contacts, and get noticed by senior consultants.
Intro to MBA Essay Writing
Translate your narrative into compelling MBA essays that demonstrate clarity of purpose, authenticity, and school fit.
AI Marketing: Consideration
Using AI for the consideration stage of the marketing funnel.

Columbia Business School: General Overview
Holistic information about Columbia Business School's admission statistics and program.

Communication Timeline & Etiquette Checklist
• When to send your first update (and how often to follow up) • How to structure your email cadence • Rules for event follow-up (e.g., after attending webinars or coffee chats) • Optional updates vs. overcommunication • Template calendar: sample outreach plan over 8 weeks
AI Marketing: Loyalty
Using AI for the loyalty stage of the marketing funnel.

Columbia Business School: Essay Brainstorming Template
A template to help prospective applicants to Columbia Business School brainstorm essay ideas.

Tailoring Your Story for Different Schools
Adapt your core story for different MBA programs while maintaining consistency and authenticity.
Boston Consulting Group: Networking and Firm-Specific Elements
An in-depth guide to building authentic connections and navigating BCG’s unique recruiting nuances. This module helps learners understand how to network effectively, engage alumni and recruiters with genuine curiosity, and stand out through thoughtful outreach.

FAFSA 101
Leland is excited to partner with CareerVillage to host this free event on navigating FAFSA! Paying for college or graduate school starts with understanding financial aid—and that means knowing how to navigate the FAFSA. In this session, Leland coach Loubna B., who has years of experience guiding students through competitive admissions and funding opportunities, will walk you through the FAFSA process step by step. You’ll learn how to complete the application accurately, avoid common mistakes, and maximize your eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your FAFSA, this session will give you the clarity and confidence you need to take control of your financial aid journey.

Consulting Sprint (October 14-16) Kickoff
Join us for Leland’s Consulting Sprint Kickoff! Come hear from top consulting experts Erik Z. (Bain), Yash G. (BCG), and Emily H. (McKinsey) who have helped candidates land offers at firms like McKinsey, BCG, and Bain—and thrive once they’re in the role. You’re invited to several days of focused career and recruiting prep designed to help you break into consulting with confidence. Throughout the sprint, we’ll host a series of virtual sessions led by Leland coaches and experienced consultants. You’ll gain tactical guidance on networking, case interview prep, resume building, and strategies for standing out in a competitive recruiting process—all condensed into a power-packed sprint to get you ready.

Writing the STARR Essay
Master the STARR (Situation, Task, Action, Result, Reflection) framework to highlight your leadership, impact, and growth.

AI Marketing: Full Course Lecture Slides
Lecture slides for the full Leland+ AI in Marketing Course

MIT Sloan: Example Cover Letter
An example of a cover letter for the MIT Sloan MBA application.

September Surge - Tell Your Story (Part 3)
The “September Surge” is when hiring heats up, and I'm here to help you land your next role faster—with less stress and more confidence. Join my 4-part webinar series on Leland to unlock proven frameworks, actionable strategies, and a live demo of a leading job search app—trusted by high-achievers worldwide. Event Description: Prepare Your Documents Description: Master resume and LinkedIn optimization, cover letter writing, and personal branding. Get actionable tips for tailoring your materials to each opportunity, leveraging AI for editing, and using a task management management system to stay organized.
Tailoring Your Story for Different Schools
Adapt your core story for different MBA programs while maintaining consistency and authenticity.

Waitlist 101 Guide
• Mindset shift: from “waiting” to “strategic repositioning” • Common emotional pitfalls (panic, over-updating, disengagement) • How to maintain professionalism and perspective • Setting intentions for the next 4–8 weeks • Quick self-checklist: “Am I reacting or responding?”

Top 10 Ways to Strengthen Your Profile While Waitlisted
• Examples of high-impact updates: promotions, certifications, quant coursework, new leadership roles • How to frame achievements for the admissions committee • How to show ongoing engagement with the school (events, conversations, visits) • Building credibility through thoughtful updates, not volume • Quick-reference chart: “Update ideas by category (Academic / Professional / Personal / Fit)"