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Applying to US Master’s Programs as an International Applicant
The U.S. admissions process can feel complex and overwhelming for international students—especially when you’re navigating cultural differences, competitive standards, and unfamiliar expectations. In this workshop, Kanishka E.—a Harvard-trained Ph.D. with a decade of experience at elite institutions—will break down what U.S. master’s programs are really looking for and how international applicants can highlight their unique strengths. Whether you’re just starting to explore programs or preparing final materials, this session will give you the insight and tools to stand out in a global applicant pool.
From Research to Results: Guide to PhD Applications
Thinking about pursuing a PhD but unsure how to navigate the admissions process? Join us for From Research to Results: Guide to PhD Applications, where experienced PhD coach Madeleine L. will break down what it really takes to build a competitive doctoral application. Whether you’re just starting to explore PhD programs or preparing to hit submit, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies to strengthen your application and move closer to your academic goals.
3 Secrets of the GRE That Will Raise Your Score Today!
Getting ready for the GRE? Small changes in how you prepare and approach the test can make a big difference in your score. In this workshop, expert test prep coach Bruce H. will reveal three insider strategies that top scorers use to gain an edge on exam day. You’ll learn how to tackle tricky questions with confidence, manage your time more effectively, and avoid the common mistakes that hold test-takers back. Whether you’re just starting your prep or looking for a last-minute boost, these actionable tips will help you raise your score right away.
How to Write the First Draft of Your Master’s Application SoP in 60 Minutes (or less)
Your Statement of Purpose (SoP) is one of the most important parts of your master’s application—but getting started can feel overwhelming. At the end of this session, you'll walk away with the first draft of your SoP in 60 mins or less. You’ll learn a step-by-step framework to draft a strong first version in under an hour. We’ll cover how to identify your key themes, structure your story, and highlight your academic and professional goals in a way that resonates with admissions committees. The session will be led by Kanishka E., a Leland coach with extensive experience guiding students through competitive graduate applications. You’ll leave with a clear process to take the guesswork out of writing, so you can move from blank page to a compelling SoP draft quickly and confidently. Mostly importantly, we'll get you through the hardest part of your Master's application: getting started.
Early Stage Startup Fundraising Panel
Raising capital is one of the biggest challenges early-stage founders face—and one of the most misunderstood. In this panel, you'll hear about the experience of Louis S., Jimmy M., and Garrett W., all founders who have gained wisdom and insight through their own entrepreneurial endeavors. We’ll cover what makes a compelling pitch, how to build relationships with investors before you need funding, what terms to watch out for, and how to decide whether fundraising is the right path for your startup. Whether you're preparing for your first round or just curious about how the process works, this session will give you real-world insight and actionable advice to navigate the fundraising journey with more clarity and confidence.
Graduate School Admissions Week (September 15-18) Kickoff
Join us for Leland's Graduate School Admissions Week (September 15–18) Kickoff! Come hear from top admissions experts coaches Tom N., Krysta F., and Amy G. who have helped candidates gain acceptance to their dream master's programs. You’re invited to a week of actionable insights and preparation strategies designed to help you craft a standout application and position yourself for success in the admissions process.
Harvard Masters and McGill PhD: AMA
Thinking about grad school but not sure how to navigate the admissions process? Join us for an open Ask Me Anything session designed to answer your biggest questions about applications, essays, interviews, and more. Led by an experienced grad school coach Haitham S., this session is your chance to get personalized insights on what admissions committees are really looking for. Whether you’re still deciding on programs, polishing your statement of purpose, or preparing for interviews, this AMA will give you clarity and direction.
Crafting Your Story: Personal Statement Workshop
Your personal statement is one of the most important parts of your grad school application—it’s your chance to go beyond test scores and transcripts to show admissions committees who you really are. In this workshop, expert coach Debby C. will walk you through how to turn your experiences, goals, and passions into a compelling story that stands out. From brainstorming ideas to structuring your narrative and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll gain practical strategies to make your statement authentic, memorable, and impactful. Whether you’re starting with a blank page or revising a draft, this session will give you the tools and confidence to craft an essay that leaves a lasting impression.
Developing a Winning College Application
In this session, join Christine B. (former admissions officer with 25+ years experience) as she discusses key elements that make a college application sing. From developing your personal story, determining your essay topic, highlighting your achievements and community engagement, and getting the most out of your recommender. We will discuss the pillars of what schools are looking for in their students, and how to differentiate yourself from the competitive applicant pool.
Breaking Into Equity Research: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Equity research is one of the most sought-after yet misunderstood paths in finance. In this session, you’ll gain a clear picture of what the role actually entails, from the skills analysts use day-to-day to the expectations recruiters bring into the interview process. We’ll cover everything from building models and writing reports to staying on top of market-moving news, so you know exactly what to expect. Leading the session is Leland coach William L., a former U.S. Equity Associate Analyst at T. Rowe Price who specialized in enterprise and cybersecurity software research. Drawing from his first-hand experience, William will share actionable strategies to prepare for interviews, showcase your passion for the markets, and set yourself apart as a candidate—so you can break into equity research and thrive once you’re there.
Writing Standout MBA Application Essays
Led by Jenai A. (Stanford MBA), Oren M. (Ex Admissions @ NYU Stern MBA) and Ellin L. (MBA coach for 12+ years with 98.9% accept rate), this session will provide you with valuable insights, proven strategies, and expert guidance to help you create impactful essays that reflect your unique experiences and aspirations. Discover top tips for capturing the attention of admissions committees, structuring your essays effectively, and showcasing your authentic voice. Whether you are just starting your application or looking to refine your existing essays, this workshop will equip you with the tools and techniques necessary to make your application shine.
ClearAdmit x Leland: Nail Your MBA Interviews
The MBA interview is one of the most important steps in the admissions process—your chance to move beyond the application and show schools who you really are. In this session, expert coaches Faisal K. (Admissions @ Chicago Booth), Charlotte W. (Stanford GSB), and Abdi S. (Harvard Business School) explain what top programs are evaluating, how to approach common interview formats, and strategies to highlight your unique story with confidence and clarity. We’ll also cover proven techniques to structure your answers, demonstrate leadership and impact, and avoid the common mistakes that hold applicants back. Whether you’re preparing for your very first interview or fine-tuning your final rounds, this session will give you the insights and preparation tools you need to stand out.
M7 MBA Applications: How to Tell Your Story
Are you applying to an MBA program at a top business school? Then you already know your essays are the most important part of your application. In this session, we’ll break down why essays matter so much to admissions committees, what they reveal about you beyond your resume and transcript, and how to craft a narrative that sets you apart. From writing a compelling “Why MBA” essay to tackling the community essay with authenticity and confidence, this event will give you a clear, structured approach to presenting your best self. I’m Mihir, your guide for this event. As an admit to both Columbia Business School and Chicago Booth, I bring firsthand experience and insider knowledge to help you stand out in your applications. With a background in Biochemistry, English, Business, and Computer Science, and professional stints at Capital One and Moderna, I offer a well-rounded perspective on crafting compelling applications. I’m thrilled to co-host this session with Claire, a Knight-Hennessy Scholar and Stanford GSB alumna. Claire has mastered the case interview process and earned a full-time role at Bain & Company, later moving into private equity and venture capital, and most recently global brand strategy at Nike. Her story highlights how mentorship, grit, and openness to opportunity can completely transform a career trajectory. By the end of this session, you’ll walk away with concrete strategies for structuring your essays, a framework for telling your unique story, and examples that highlight what works—and what doesn’t. Whether you’re drafting your first outline or polishing your final version, this workshop is designed to help you approach every essay with confidence and clarity.
Breaking Into Equity Research: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Equity research is one of the most sought-after yet misunderstood paths in finance. In this session, you’ll gain a clear picture of what the role actually entails, from the skills analysts use day-to-day to the expectations recruiters bring into the interview process. We’ll cover everything from building models and writing reports to staying on top of market-moving news, so you know exactly what to expect. Leading the session is Leland coach William L., a former U.S. Equity Associate Analyst at T. Rowe Price who specialized in enterprise and cybersecurity software research. Drawing from his first-hand experience, William will share actionable strategies to prepare for interviews, showcase your passion for the markets, and set yourself apart as a candidate—so you can break into equity research and thrive once you’re there.
Breaking Into Software Engineering Panel
Curious about how to land your first role as a software engineer? In this panel, join top SWE coaches Michelle B., Logan N., and Carter M. as they share how they broke into the industry and how you can, too. You’ll get real-world insights into what hiring managers look for, how to stand out in the application process, and what to expect once you’re on the job. Whether you're preparing for technical interviews or just starting to explore the field, this session will give you clarity, direction, and encouragement to take the next step.
Drivers of Value Creation & Valuation: Insights for Hedge Fund Investors
In this foundational session, you’ll explore the key levers of business value creation—understanding how revenue dynamics, margin improvement, capital efficiency, and growth initiatives shape valuation. By grounding yourself in these fundamental concepts, you’ll establish the strategic foundation you need for identifying critical inflection points and alpha-generating opportunities in later deep-dive sessions. Guiding you through it is Leland coach Diyang Y., who brings first-hand experience from M&A at RBC and as a long/short equity analyst at Point72. He emphasizes that success in investing isn’t just technical—it’s about “thinking independently, building conviction in an idea, and communicating it clearly under pressure.” This session will offer not just conceptual clarity but practical tools to sharpen your analytical mindset and valuation approach.
Video Walkthrough: GMAT Data Sufficiency
Comprehensive video walkthrough of examples for GMAT Data Sufficiency questions
Why Round 2 Could Be the Smart Move for Your MBA Application
An overview of why you might consider round 2 as the potential sweet spot for MBA admissions
A Peek Behind the Curtain: How Your Application is Really Evaluated at Top Business Schools
Have you ever wondered what happens once you hit submit? Join this one-of-a-kind event to learn what really goes on behind the scenes from two coaches who have seen it all. Christine B.'s 25+ year admissions career has included as an Admissions Director for The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, London Business School and Yale School of Management. Faisal K. has been an MBA coach for 15+ years, and worked with Christine as an admissions committee member at the Chicago Booth. This fireside chat between Faisal and Christine will explore how an application is assessed, decisions are made to interview and admit, and offer tips on how to put your best foot forward at the world’s most selective business schools.
The PhD Edge: How to Craft a Compelling Application
Applying to PhD programs is about more than strong grades and test scores—it’s about demonstrating your potential as a researcher and future scholar. In this session, top admissions expert coach Loubna B. will share insider strategies for building a standout application that highlights both your academic strengths and your research vision. You’ll learn how to craft a compelling statement of purpose, showcase your research experiences, and position your long-term goals in a way that resonates with faculty reviewers. We’ll also cover how to secure strong recommendations, avoid common mistakes, and tailor your application to specific programs. Whether you’re early in the process or polishing your materials, this event will give you the tools and confidence to approach PhD admissions with clarity and purpose.
