Leland+ Content Library
Select a category
Popular on Leland+
Essay 2 Brainstorm & Structure Worksheet
A guided worksheet designed to help you brainstorm impactful stories, identify key themes, and structure your Kellogg essay 2 with clarity and purpose.
It's October, But I'm Stuck on my Essays!
Feeling stuck on your MBA application essays? You're not alone, and I'm here to help you successfully get to a Round 2 deadline. Join me for an insightful session where we'll tackle the art of crafting compelling essays that truly reflect your unique story and aspirations. With over 15 years of experience admitting student to every top MBA institution in the world, I will distill the components of effective essays that my clients have written to help you understand how to make your essay powerful and memorable. Whether you're applying for a traditional full-time MBA, deferred, executive, part-time, or online MBA, this session will provide you with the strategies and insights needed to elevate your application. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a competitive edge—RSVP now to secure your spot!
Example IB/PE Resume — Evercore IB
See an example resume that's been used for a variety of finance roles. The resume background highlights finance degree at UT Austin and work experience at Evercore and I Squared Capital.
Selecting and Guiding Recommenders
Learn how to choose the right recommender and equip them with stories that align with Kellogg’s leadership criteria.
Creating Impactful Pre-Job Projects
Walkthrough of building and presenting portfolio pieces that resonate with AI employers, featuring tips on storytelling, technical demonstration, and networking through project sharing.
Optional MBA Essay Example – Low GPA
MBA Optional Essay Example addressing a low GPA and mental health challenges. Asian Male.
No Ivy, No Problem: How My Startup Got into Y Combinator
Think you need an Ivy League degree to make it into Y Combinator? Think again. In this workshop, Chanhyung K.—a Georgia Tech graduate, McKinsey alum, and Y Combinator founder—shares how he built and pitched a successful startup without the traditional pedigree. Drawing from his experience landing offers at McKinsey, JPMorgan, and FAANG while coming from a non-target school, Chan will reveal how to craft your founder story, stand out in competitive application pools, and navigate the YC process with authenticity and confidence. Whether you’re an aspiring founder or already building your startup, this session will show you how to turn unconventional beginnings into startup success.
Getting Started: When & How to Use Addenda
Optional addenda can be used for a variety of purposes. This guide will help you figure out if you need to include one or more optional essays.
Investment Banking Recruiting: Ask Me Anything
Breaking into investment banking is competitive and often overwhelming—but you don’t have to go through it alone. In this AMA, Max S. (current COO and ex Citi) will answer your questions about every stage of the IB recruiting process. From networking strategies and resume tips to technical prep, behavioral interviews, and navigating accelerated timelines, this is your chance to get unfiltered advice directly from someone who's successfully helped candidates land roles at leading Wall Street firms. Bring your questions and leave with actionable insights to make your recruiting journey more focused, efficient, and successful.
Graduate School Application Timeline
Guide to help applicants stay organized and on track to submitting their applications by application deadlines
Compelling Law School Personal Statements
A resource for law school applicants seeking to draft compelling personal statements.
Knight-Hennessy + Stanford Law Admit [2-pg resume]
Military veteran with 5+ years professional experience, 2-page resume (admitted to SLS, HLS)
Nail the Consulting Case Interview
Cracking the consulting case interview is one of the biggest challenges in landing an offer at firms like McKinsey, Bain, and BCG—but with the right strategy and mindset, you can stand out from the competition. In this panel, expert Leland coaches Casey L. (BCG consultant, Andrew H. (Associate Partner @ Bain), and Alan W. (former McKinsey Engagement Manager) will share insider insights from both sides of the interview table. You’ll learn what top firms are really testing for, how to structure your approach, and how to deliver confident, polished answers under pressure.
UVA Admit Sample Resume [no legal work experience]
This applicant was admitted to several top law schools, including their Michigan, Duke, and UVA. Untraditional background/no legal experience.
How to Ace PE Interviews: From Behaviorals and Technicals to Why PE
Private equity interviews test more than your technical skills—they assess your judgment, communication, and fit. In this workshop, Claire H. and Jonathan L.—three seasoned finance professionals who have successfully navigated and conducted PE interviews—will walk you through what top firms are really looking for. You’ll learn how to craft thoughtful answers to behavioral questions, structure strong technical responses, and nail your “Why PE” story. Between Claire’s experience at Morgan Stanley and The Carlyle Group and Jonathan's role as a senior PE associate at General Atlantic, you’ll gain insider insights from both sides of the interview table. Whether you’re preparing for on-cycle recruiting or exploring post-banking opportunities, this session will give you actionable strategies and the confidence to stand out in competitive PE recruiting.
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.
Back-to-School IB Networking
Kick off the recruiting season with Max A. (Former Senior Associate @ Vector Capital Management) in this interactive networking-focused session for students interested in private equity and investment banking. Whether you're preparing for fall interviews or just getting started in the process, this workshop will help you build key relationships, ask the right questions, and make a strong impression. Max will share tactical tips on how to connect with professionals and stand out in coffee chats and info sessions—just in time for the start of the school year.
Columbia Business School Mock Interview Guide
Mock Interview Guide with Questions and Suggestions
Deferred MBA Panel: Getting Started Early
In this panel, expert MBA coaches Geri T. (Harvard Business School), Timothy F. (Chicago Booth), and Claire R. (Stanford Graduate School of Business) will break down what you need to know about applying to deferred MBA programs and how to set yourself up for success early. From understanding what top schools look for to planning your academics, internships, and extracurriculars, you’ll get insider guidance on how to build a competitive profile while you’re still in school. You’ll also hear strategies for writing compelling essays, securing strong recommendations, and avoiding the common mistakes that applicants make. Whether you’re a college junior, senior, or early-career professional exploring deferred programs, this session will give you the tools and confidence to start your MBA journey on the right foot.
The Path to Law School: What It Takes to Stand Out
Law school admissions is more competitive than ever, and standing out requires more than just strong grades and test scores. From crafting a compelling personal statement to highlighting unique experiences and securing strong recommendations, every part of your application plays a role in shaping your story. In this session, you’ll hear from Megan N., Akua A., and James W., who will share what top programs are really looking for and how to position yourself as a standout applicant. Whether you’re just beginning to explore law school or preparing to hit submit, this session will give you practical tools and insights to approach the process with confidence.
