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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.
Stanford Knight-Hennessy Scholar Letter of Rec
Sample letter of rec for military vet selected as a Knight-Hennessy Scholar.
Round 2 MBA: What You Need to Do Between Now and the Deadlines
Round 2 MBA deadlines are just around the corner—and what you do in the next few months can make or break your application. In this session, you will learn how to prioritize your time, strengthen your materials, and fill any remaining gaps in your candidacy. Faisal K. brings admissions experience from Chicago Booth, Oren M. previously served in Wharton’s admissions office, and Jenny R. is a former Stanford GSB Admissions Officer—together, they’ve helped hundreds of applicants gain admission to top programs. You’ll learn exactly where to focus your energy—from refining your essays and securing powerful recommendations to polishing your resume and prepping for potential interviews. Whether you’re just starting your Round 2 applications or putting on the finishing touches, this session will help you create a clear, actionable plan to submit your strongest possible application.
Tips for Success: Navigating the Deferred MBA recommendation Process
Applying to deferred MBA programs is a unique challenge—especially when it comes to securing strong recommendation letters. Your recommenders can make or break your application, but knowing who to ask, how to prepare them, and what schools are really looking for can be tricky to navigate. Join Claire R., a former Assistant Director of Admissions at Stanford GSB and MBA graduate of Yale SOM, for an insider’s guide to navigating the deferred MBA recommendation process. Drawing on her experience evaluating applications at one of the world’s top programs, Claire will share how to select the right recommenders, guide them to highlight your strengths effectively, and ensure their letters complement—not duplicate—your essays and resume.
Get Ahead of the Curve: How to Prep Early for Med School Applications
The medical school admissions process is one of the most competitive and complex—but with early preparation, you can set yourself apart long before you hit “submit.” In this workshop, Krysta F.—a pre-med advisor and equity-focused higher education professional who has completed thousands of advising sessions with aspiring physicians—will share how to build a strong foundation for your med school journey. With years of experience guiding science students and young alumni through every stage of the process, Krysta will walk you through how to identify your story, develop key competencies, and plan strategically for experiences that strengthen your application. Whether you’re a freshman just starting to explore pre-med or a junior getting ready for the cycle, this session will help you stay organized, confident, and ahead of the curve.
Dental School Interviews & The Wait: What to Do (and Not Do)
Waiting for a dental school interview or decision can feel like one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the process—and many applicants struggle with how to stay proactive and grounded. In this session, Sreya P., incoming DMD student at UPenn and former pre-dental mentor at University of Virginia who gained admission to six dental schools, will guide you through what to do — and what to avoid — during the interview stage and post-application wait. You’ll learn how to prepare effectively for interviews, handle the emotional ups and downs of waiting, keep your application momentum going, and set yourself up for the best possible outcome. Whether you’re prepping for your interview invite or already in the waiting stage, this session will give you clarity, confidence, and practical next steps.
