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10 Common Mistakes Applicants Make in Private Equity Recruiting - And How to Avoid Them
Private Equity (PE) recruiting is one of the most competitive processes in finance. Whether you're an investment banking analyst, a management consultant, or coming from corporate development, breaking into PE takes more than just technical know-how. It’s about strategy, preparation, and self-awareness.
Business Concepts for Case Interview Math
Business concepts and math calculations to know for consulting case interviews (profit, contribution margin, breakeven, payback period).
What makes a good consultant?
At its simplest, the consulting interview is a way for firms and consultants to assess if candidates have the intrinsics needed to succeed on the job--to 'be a good consultant.' But what does that even mean? What are the skills and mindsets that make a good consultant, and why do they translate to on-the-job success? In this event, I'll take you through the skills that managers and teams prize from their consultants, talk through how various aspects of the interview process are designed for you to showcase the relevant skills, and highlight how excellent candidates put themselves in the best light throughout the behavioral and case interviews--and what you can do to sharpen your candidacy as you prepare.
Picking the Right MBA Programs - 2025
This interactive workbook will guide you through researching and picking the right schools for your profile
Statement of Purpose Writing Guide & Examples
Comprehensive essay guide for applicants to master's and doctoral programs in the US
2025 Knight-Hennessy Scholars Recommender Guide
Comprehensive guide to preparing your recommenders for the Knight Hennessy Scholarship
IB Division Structure: Coverage v. Product Groups
Explains the organizational structure of investment banks, distinguishing between coverage groups that manage client relationships and product groups that provide specialized financial services.
School Selection Strategy
Develop a robust strategy to select Master's programs to apply to.
Founder Playbooks: Growth Strategies for Early-Stage Startups
Building an early-stage startup is an exciting but daunting journey, especially when it comes to driving sustainable growth. From finding product-market fit to scaling operations and building the right team, founders face countless decisions that can make or break their trajectory. In this session, Renato V. (Founder and CEO of Parallel), Angela C. (Founder of Stanford’s Education Entrepreneurship Hub and Founder of instructiv) and John K. (Founder and CEO of Leland) will share proven playbooks for navigating the critical growth stages. You’ll gain practical insights on refining your go-to-market strategy, attracting customers, raising capital, and avoiding common early pitfalls so you can build a strong foundation and accelerate your path to success.
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 Alaina H., Angela C., and Nick V., all of whom 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.
MBA Interview Series: HBS
The HBS interview is one of the most challenging—and distinctive—parts of the MBA admissions process. In this workshop, Leland coach Geri T., a former HBS Admissions Board member with years of experience evaluating candidates, will break down what makes the HBS interview unique and how you can prepare with confidence. Drawing on her time at HBS and her track record coaching applicants into top MBA programs, Geri will share what the admissions team is really looking for, the kinds of questions you should expect, and strategies to present your experiences authentically while staying structured under pressure. With Round 1 interviews approaching, this session will give you the clarity and confidence to stand out when it matters most.
Mastering this Skill Unlocked the 99th percentile LSAT for Me
The LSAT is one of the biggest hurdles on the law school path—but mastering the right skills can completely change your score trajectory. In this session, we’ll dive into the single most impactful skill that propelled Eshaan S. to a 99th percentile score. You’ll learn why this skill matters, how to practice it effectively, and how to apply it under timed conditions. We’ll also cover broader strategies for test-day preparation, common pitfalls that hold students back, and ways to approach the exam with confidence. Whether you’re just starting LSAT prep or aiming to push from good to great, you’ll leave with concrete techniques you can put into action right away.
International Applicants & the MBA Admissions Process: Keys to Success
This session is designed to support international candidates applying to top MBA programs in the U.S., Europe, Asia, and beyond. It will also provide valuable insights for Americans targeting programs overseas. Jesse, a leading MBA admissions coach with deep experience guiding international applicants, will cover the unique challenges global candidates face, share strategies for differentiation, debunk common myths, and offer practical advice to strengthen your candidacy. Jesse has 8+ years of experience running a boutique MBA consultancy with his wife, specializing in coaching international applicants and guiding 100+ admits to Global Top 20 programs, such as all M7, London Business School, INSEAD, IESE, IE Business School, and HEC Paris. His insights are also shaped by 15+ years of living and working abroad in 12 countries and his strong track record of success with candidates from diverse backgrounds.
Breaking into IB in London
In this session, Leland coach Vanessa L.—a former investment banker turned operator and investor—shares her insider perspective on breaking into Investment Banking in London. Having worked across M&A and capital markets at top firms in both NYC and London, she’s coached 40+ professionals through high-stakes transitions into IB and beyond. You’ll walk away with actionable strategies for refining your story, succeeding in interviews, and navigating the competitive London IBD landscape. Whether you're targeting analyst roles or looking to pivot into IB from another path, this session is designed to equip you with the confidence, clarity, and practical tools to advance your career with intention.
Writing Standout Application Essays
Led by Tim F. (Former Adcom at Chicago Booth), Laura N. (Former Adcom at Michigan Ross), and Angela C. (Stanford) 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.
Leveraging AI Agents to Grow Your Business
In this panel, experts will answer key questions on how AI agents are transforming business growth. The discussion will cover practical applications—like automating operations, streamlining customer interactions, and uncovering new revenue opportunities—while also addressing challenges and limitations to be aware of. Designed for business leaders and professionals curious about AI’s real-world impact, this session will provide clear takeaways on where AI agents add the most value and what to consider as you integrate them into your strategy.
GMAT Quant Workshop: Word Problems & Percents
Word problems got you stuck? This workshop covers GMAT essentials like percents, interest, and mixtures to help you solve problems with speed and accuracy.
AMA: Insider Tips from 20+ yrs of MBA Admissions & Coaching
Unlock the secrets of MBA admissions with Christine, a seasoned one-of-a-kind expert with 20+ years of admissions experience across three elite MBA programs. This "Ask Me Anything" session is your chance to gain invaluable insights into the application process. Christine's impressive background includes admissions roles at Chicago Booth, London Business School, and Yale School of Management, where she has helped craft MBA classes and understands the nuances of what makes a successful applicant. With a track record of over 400 M7 admits and more than $5 million in scholarship awards secured for her clients, Christine is a one-of-a-kind consultant equipped to guide you through every step of your MBA journey. Join us to explore application strategies, discuss how to make a stand out MBA resume, learn what makes a candidate stand out, and gain insight into how applications are reviewed and admissions decisions are made. Christine's no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach will help you craft an authentic story that highlights your unique strengths and differences. Whether you're just starting your MBA application journey or you're already on your way, join me and leave equipped with insights into the M7 (and beyond) application process.
5 Powerful Hacks for a Higher GMAT Score
The GMAT is one of the most important components of your MBA application—and even small score improvements can open the door to top programs. In this workshop, Jennifer P.—a Leland GMAT coach with years of experience helping students achieve their target scores—will share five proven strategies you can use right away to boost your performance. From time-saving test-day tactics to smarter study approaches, Jennifer will break down what really moves the needle and how to avoid the most common mistakes students make. Whether you’re just beginning your prep or looking for that final push, you’ll walk away with actionable hacks to increase your confidence and maximize your GMAT score.
MBA Application Sprint (September 30-October 2) Kickoff
Join us for the kickoff panel of Leland’s MBA Application Sprint (September 30–October 2)! In this opening session, top Leland coaches and former MBA admissions officers Claire R., Bill C., Faisal K., and Karla M. will discuss what it takes to put together a standout MBA application. They’ll cover key components of a successful application—from shaping your essays and tightening your resume, to interview prep and building a cohesive story. You’ll walk away with actionable strategies and a clear sense of how to spend the weeks ahead so you can approach deadlines with confidence.
