Leland+ Content Library

Addressing Weak Spots

GPA conversion, school prestige gaps, job title confusion

The "American Style" Application

Directness, reflection, vulnerability—all without oversharing

How to Land Your First Role in Product Management

Breaking into product management can feel intimidating—especially if you don’t have “PM” in your current title. In this session, Britton O. (Product Lead @ Uber), Sameer B. (PM @ Whatnot, Former PM @ Flip & Curated) and Robert E. (Director of PM @ Home Depot) will walk you through what it really takes to land your first role, even without prior product experience. ​You’ll learn how to position your transferable skills, build a compelling story for recruiters and hiring managers, and navigate different PM entry paths—from APM programs to startup roles. By the end, you’ll have a clear game plan for breaking into product management with confidence and standing out in a competitive hiring process.

Translating Work Experience

Clarifying roles, context, business scale, quantifying impact

Leadership in Global Contexts

Influence vs title, cross-cultural teamwork, initiative

Career Story & Post-MBA Goals

Structuring a compelling international career narrative

Extracurricular Strategy

Volunteering, professional associations, passion projects

AdCom Insider Tip #1

Why International Applicants Get Misread in the U.S. MBA Process

Consulting-to-MBA: Stand out as a "Traditional" Candidate

​Consultants make up one of the largest applicant pools to top MBA programs—which means standing out is more important than ever. In this panel, Leland coaches Andy P. (Top MBA coach for 20 years), Karla M. (150+ M7 Admits, prior consultant, Harvard/Booth dual degree grad), and Ben L. (300+ M7 Admits, prior consultant, GSB grad) will share how to craft an authentic, differentiated story that sets you apart from thousands of other applicants with similar backgrounds. ​You’ll learn how to translate your consulting experience into powerful application essays, recommendations, and interviews that highlight your leadership, impact, and future goals. Whether you’re a current analyst, associate, or engagement manager preparing for a future cycle, this session will give you actionable strategies to turn a “traditional” background into a standout advantage.

Translating Your Experience

Speak the US MBA Admissions Language

Study Smart for GMAT Quant

​Preparing for the GMAT Quant section isn’t just about doing hundreds of problems—it’s about mastering strategy, review, and time management. In this hands-on workshop, expert GMAT coach Sage P. will guide you through a curated set of Quant problems to illustrate how top scorers think, study, and review effectively. ​This isn’t a lecture—it’s an interactive session where you’ll solve, discuss, and refine your approach in real time. Come ready to participate and leave with a clear game plan for boosting your GMAT Quant score.

How U.S. MBA Admissions Work

Application components, holistic review, timelines (Round 1 vs Round 2), application portals

Telling Your Story

Build Your Own Personal Brand