Leland+ Content Library

Ace MBA Interviews & Essays: Strategies for Why an MBA/Now/This School

Are you struggling to clearly answer “Why an MBA?”, “Why now?”, and “Why this school?” in both interviews and written applications? These three questions are the backbone of every strong MBA candidacy. In this focused 60-minute session, you’ll learn exactly how to approach them with clarity, specificity, and confidence. We’ll break down what admissions committees are really looking for, why these questions matter, and the most common mistakes applicants make. You’ll see detailed examples drawn directly from successful applicant materials, along with in-depth analysis of what makes each example strong or weak. We’ll cover how to link your background, needs, and goals to the right program features, how to avoid generic phrasing, and how to bring authenticity and structure into your responses. Throughout the session, I’ll highlight specific dos and don’ts and walk you through the progression from vague answers to compelling, school-ready responses. You’ll also see how your approach should differ between essays and interviews so your answers feel natural and appropriate in each format. We will close with a Q&A where you can ask about these three questions, your approach, or anything that wasn’t fully clear in the presentation. By the end, you’ll have a sharper understanding of what makes a strong response, how to integrate school-specific research, and how to communicate your story in a way that resonates in both interviews and written applications.

How to Answer "Why this Company"

One of the most common interview questions is "Why do you want to work here?" In this video we will discuss what your approach and strategy should be as you answer this question in your behavioral interviews.

Start Write Now: MBA Essay Panel

MBA essays are where you move beyond stats and show who you are, what you want, and why a program should bet on you. In this panel, experienced coaches will break down what actually differentiates strong essays, common mistakes they see every cycle, and how to get started without overthinking. Whether you’re staring at a blank page or revising drafts, you’ll leave with practical insights to write with more clarity and direction.

How to Build AI-Powered Features Without an ML Team

Building AI-powered features no longer requires a full machine learning team, but many product builders aren’t sure where to start or what’s actually feasible. This session is for PMs, founders, and builders who want to integrate AI into their products in a practical, scalable way. You’ll learn how to identify high-impact use cases, leverage existing models and tools, and make smart product decisions without needing deep ML expertise.

Hedge Fund Case Study

This real-world case study presentation was used successfully to secure a job offer at a credit-focused hedge fund. It demonstrates how to structure analysis, present investment ideas, and communicate insights effectively.

Deferred MBA M7 Series: Stanford

Get an inside look at what Stanford GSB seeks in Deferred MBA candidates and how to bring your unique story to life. Expert Leland coach and GSB alum Ben L. will break down the qualities Stanford cares about most—impact, curiosity, and personal growth. You’ll leave with concrete strategies to articulate your values, achievements, and ambitions in a way that resonates with the GSB admissions committee.

Gaming the GMAT FE: Advanced Strategies to Outsmart the Test and Break 705

The GMAT Focus Edition rewards strategy just as much as content mastery—and if you understand how the test thinks, you can dramatically boost your score. In this workshop, Mihir G.—a top GMAT FE scorer (765, 100th percentile) and strategic test-prep specialist—will teach you the advanced tactics, time-management systems, and pattern-recognition techniques that high scorers use to break the 705+ threshold. Drawing on his deep understanding of the exam’s logic and structure, Mihir will walk you through how to approach problems with efficiency, eliminate traps, and leverage a results-driven framework tailored to your strengths. Whether you’re stuck at a plateau or aiming for a top-tier MBA score, this session will give you the tools to think like the testmaker and outperform the competition.

Review Medium Algebra & Geometry

In this review we will be discussing the triage test method and break down some additional example questions for algebra & geometry.

Mock McKinsey Interview - March 2026

A McKinsey interview isn’t just about getting the right answer—it’s about how you think. This mock interview session gives you a front-row seat to what a real McKinsey-style case looks and feels like under pressure. Watch a live case unfold in real time, see how structure and communication can elevate (or derail) performance, and hear direct feedback on what separates solid responses from truly exceptional ones. If you want to understand what excellence actually looks like in the room—and how to replicate it—this is a session you won’t want to miss.

MBA to Consulting: How to Nail the Interview

Consulting interviews are some of the toughest in the MBA world—and breaking into a top firm requires mastery of both case and behavioral components. In this workshop, Erik Z. —a former Bain consultant and manager who spent three years on the “other side” of recruiting—will walk you through exactly how to prepare. Having conducted 300+ mock interviews, authored an MBA interview case at Bain, and coached candidates (including many from non-traditional backgrounds) into MBB, Erik brings insider knowledge of what firms truly look for. He’ll cover networking strategy, resume positioning, case frameworks, behavioral excellence, and the nuances that help you stand out during recruiting season. Whether you're prepping for on-campus recruiting or pivoting into consulting post-MBA, this session will give you the clarity and confidence to excel.

Course Conclusion

What You've Learn and What's Next

The AI Skillset That Gives PM Candidates an Edge

AI is rapidly becoming part of the product manager’s toolkit, and candidates who understand how to apply it thoughtfully are starting to stand out in hiring processes. This session is for aspiring and current PMs who want to understand which AI skills actually matter and how to incorporate them into their product thinking. You’ll learn how PMs are using AI in real product workflows, which capabilities hiring managers are beginning to value, and how to demonstrate AI fluency in interviews and projects.

Navigating an AI Career: from Google to Microsoft to AI startups

Curious what it’s really like to build a career in AI—and how to stand out in one of tech’s fastest-growing fields? In this session, Michael A., who previously worked at McKinsey, Google, and Microsoft, and who now works with AI startups, will share insights from his own journey across big tech and emerging companies. You’ll learn how to identify the right roles in AI, what skills and experiences matter most to hiring teams, and how to position yourself for long-term success in this evolving space.

How to Get Started with the LSAT

Starting your LSAT prep can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to begin. In this session, you’ll learn how the exam is structured, what skills it truly tests, and how to build a smart study plan that fits your timeline and goals. We’ll cover foundational strategies for Logical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension, how to track progress effectively, and common mistakes to avoid early on. Whether you’re months away from test day or just exploring law school, you’ll leave with a clear, confident starting point.

What Top Law School Applicants Do Differently

Top law school applicants don’t just have strong stats — they approach the entire application process strategically. In this panel, experienced admissions coaches will break down what separates competitive candidates from the rest, from LSAT preparation and school selection to personal statements and interviews. You’ll learn how successful applicants build a clear narrative, avoid common mistakes, and position themselves effectively for top programs. Whether you’re early in the process or preparing to apply soon, this session will give you a sharper understanding of how to stand out.

ADEA AADSAS - Manual Dexterity Essay

I have included an example of my manual dexterity essay for the ADEA AADSAS application. Please feel free to take a look for formatting and ideas!

Build Your PE Recruiting Plan

After this session, you will know how to build a realistic, timeline-driven recruiting plan for private equity, including when to target firms, how to sequence outreach, and what milestones to hit before your first interviews. Most candidates underestimate how early the process starts and how much the structure of their plan shapes their outcomes.

Non-US Elite MBA Pathways: Oxford (Saïd), LBS & Cambridge (Judge)

This session moves beyond school rankings to give you the strategic framework for leveraging the UK's unique position as a global career crossroads. Join cross-cultural career coach Caolan Hunter (ex-On, Ogilvy) to learn how to turn the immense brand power of Britain's top universities into a launchpad for your international ambitions. We will explore the distinct opportunities offered by Oxford (Saïd), London Business School, and Cambridge (Judge). By the end of this session, you will not only understand the nuances of the UK's elite MBA ecosystem but will leave with a strategic shortlist aligned with the UK's favorable visa reality and your specific career goals. Learning Objectives: What You Will Learn 1. The UK's Premier MBA Ecosystem: Discover the crucial differences between the standalone, finance-centric powerhouse of London Business School and the deeply integrated, tech and impact-focused models of Oxford and Cambridge. 2. Mastering the UK Post-Study Work Visa: Get a crystal-clear understanding of the UK's Graduate Route visa. We will analyze this two-year post-study work opportunity as a strategic tool and discuss how to leverage it for maximum career impact. 3. Strategic Career Positioning for the UK Market: Learn how to position yourself for top-tier roles in London's world-leading finance and consulting sectors, and how to tap into the burgeoning tech, biotech, and social impact scenes flourishing around the "Oxbridge" ecosystem. Key Outcomes: What You Will Walk Away With 1. An Ivy League-Caliber Framework: You will see how Oxford, LBS, and Cambridge serve as a strategic UK "Ivy League," opening doors globally in a way few other institutions can. 2. Actionable Visa & Employability Confidence: You'll have a clear, actionable strategy for using the UK's post-study work visa to secure a top job and build a long-term international career from a London base. 3. A Personal Viable Pathway Map: You will leave with the tools to determine which of these three iconic institutions (the city hub of LBS or the collegiate worlds of Oxford and Cambridge) is the right fit for your personality and career vision. 4. Global Brand Leverage: You'll understand precisely how to leverage these globally respected brands in interviews, networking, and long-term career planning to create opportunities far beyond the UK itself.

Top 5 Tips for Succeeding on the GMAT

Want to boost your GMAT score with advice that actually moves the needle? Join Leland coach Bruce H., a seasoned GMAT expert who has helped candidates earn elite scores and gain admission to top MBA programs. Bruce will break down his top five most impactful strategies-from mastering data sufficiency to managing timing and building a high-yield study plan-so you can approach test day with confidence. Whether you're just starting or looking for a final score jump, you'll walk away with practical techniques you can implement immediately.

What You NEED to Know Before Submitting Your BYU App (From a Former Admissions Officer)

Get an inside look at how BYU evaluates applications from someone who used to help make the decisions. In this session, expert Leland coach and former BYU’s Admissions Committee Christian H. will break down what truly matters in your essays, activities, and recommendations—and what applicants often misunderstand. You’ll learn how to present your story with authenticity, avoid common red flags, and highlight the qualities BYU values most. Perfect for anyone who wants to maximize their chances before hitting “submit.”