Leland+ Content Library

October Series - Managing a Job Search (Session 4)

Stop moving in the wrong direction! It’s easy to confuse being busy with making progress. Not all activity is created equal. Many job seekers spend hours applying blindly or scrolling through job boards. But this kind of busywork often leads to burnout and disappointment. The real trap is measuring effort instead of results. (Read that again). What matters is focusing on high-impact activities and tracking meaningful metrics. If you don’t, you risk throwing darts in the wrong direction and wondering why you’re not hitting the board. While you might get lucky with sheer volume and the law of averages, it’s ultimately the quality and direction of your activity that truly counts.

Comprehensive Guide to Letters of Recommendation

​Letters of recommendation can make or break a graduate school application—but too often, applicants underestimate their importance or don’t know how to manage the process strategically. In this session, we’ll cover everything you need to know: whom to ask, when to ask, how to prepare your recommenders, and how to ensure your letters complement and strengthen the rest of your application. ​You’ll also learn how to approach potential recommenders with confidence, provide the right context and materials, and avoid common pitfalls. With clear guidance from Jennifer P., a Harvard master’s graduate and experienced coach, you’ll walk away with a roadmap to securing strong, authentic recommendations that highlight your strengths and align with your overall story.

Comprehensive Guide to Letters of Recommendation

​Letters of recommendation can make or break a graduate school application—but too often, applicants underestimate their importance or don’t know how to manage the process strategically. In this session, we’ll cover everything you need to know: whom to ask, when to ask, how to prepare your recommenders, and how to ensure your letters complement and strengthen the rest of your application. ​You’ll also learn how to approach potential recommenders with confidence, provide the right context and materials, and avoid common pitfalls. With clear guidance from Jennifer P., a Harvard master’s graduate and experienced coach, you’ll walk away with a roadmap to securing strong, authentic recommendations that highlight your strengths and align with your overall story.

How to Land a Job as an AI/ML Engineer

​Breaking into artificial intelligence and machine learning can feel daunting—but with the right approach, you can position yourself for success in one of tech’s fastest-growing fields. In this session, David H. (AI/ML recruiter for Meta & Intuit), Felipe S. (Columbia IT Masters, Expert in Clustering Models & Neural Networks), and Deepa K. (Current Director of AI Solutions, Former Senior ML @ Affinity) will teach you what top employers look for in AI/ML engineering candidates, how to build the right technical and project experience, and how to stand out in a competitive hiring landscape. ​We’ll cover practical strategies for showcasing your skills, networking effectively, and preparing for technical interviews at leading AI-focused companies. Whether you’re a student exploring your options or a professional pivoting into AI, you’ll walk away with a clear roadmap to land your first—or next—AI/ML engineering role.

From College to Stanford GSB: The Deferred MBA Strategy Session (Dec 11)

Getting into Stanford GSB’s Deferred MBA program is not about checking boxes: it’s about building a strategy years before most candidates even think about business school. In this exclusive session, Dr. Loubna Bouamane, former MBA Admissions Director and founder of Admission Concierge, will walk you through exactly how top students position themselves for Stanford straight from college. You’ll learn how to craft a compelling early-career narrative, select the right internships and leadership experiences, stand out academically, and avoid the most common mistakes that derail otherwise strong candidates. Whether you’re a freshman, sophomore, junior, or recent graduate, this session will give you a clear roadmap to Stanford’s deferred MBA pathway with real-world insights from inside the admissions process.

From College to Stanford GSB: The Deferred MBA Strategy Session (Feb 5)

Getting into Stanford GSB’s Deferred MBA program is not about checking boxes: it’s about building a strategy years before most candidates even think about business school. In this exclusive session, Dr. Loubna Bouamane, former MBA Admissions Director and founder of Admission Concierge, will walk you through exactly how top students position themselves for Stanford straight from college. You’ll learn how to craft a compelling early-career narrative, select the right internships and leadership experiences, stand out academically, and avoid the most common mistakes that derail otherwise strong candidates. Whether you’re a freshman, sophomore, junior, or recent graduate, this session will give you a clear roadmap to Stanford’s deferred MBA pathway with real-world insights from inside the admissions process.

Future-Proof Your Business with AI

AI is transforming how businesses operate—from automating workflows to driving strategic decision-making and unlocking new growth opportunities. But how can organizations practically adopt AI in ways that are impactful, ethical, and sustainable? ​In this session, Tara C. (Co-founder of Gravi AI), Logan K. (AI Program Director @ Fabletics), and Michael A. (AI & Product Strategy Mentor at a16z and ex-Microsoft) will explore the real-world applications of AI across different sectors, sharing frameworks for identifying high-value use cases, building data-ready teams, and managing change effectively. You’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to evaluate AI tools, integrate them into existing systems, and lead teams through digital transformation with confidence.

Nailing the Schwarzman Scholars Finalist Interview

Have you been selected as a Finalist for the Schwarzman Scholars program? If you've made it this far, a huge congratulations is in order, as you already overcame substantial odds - invitations to the in-person interview are extended to just 5-6% of the total applicant pool. However, the hardest part is yet to come! I'm here to offer advice and tips to help you navigate what will most definitely be one of the most unforgettable days of your life. This free event will cover what to expect in the Finalist round, alongside strategies to prepare for both the behavioral/application-based portion of the interview and the notoriously challenging 'Global Affairs' question.

Getting into Stanford GSB

Are you aiming to secure a spot in a top MBA program? Join me, Sydney, for an insightful session on how to navigate the MBA application process and stand out among a competitive pool of applicants. As a recent MBA graduate from Stanford's Graduate School of Business and a former MBA Student Admissions Ambassador, I am passionate about guiding prospective students through this journey. During this event, we'll cover essential topics such as general exploration, essays, application strategy, recommendations, and networking strategy. Whether you're considering applying in round 2 or looking for an extra push for round 1, this session is tailored for you. Let's work together to present your authentic story and find your passion through business.

How to Nail Your Virtual Medical School Interviews

You’ve completed steps 1 and 2 of the medical school application process by submitting your primary and many secondary essays. Now, you are in the long-awaited stage of preparing for interviews (and perhaps you’ve already received an interview invite). Interviews are opportunities to showcase who you are much beyond your application materials. They are a chance to become familiarized with a program, get to know the faculty and students, and envision yourself at the medical school. During this event, you will learn how to prepare for interviews, what to expect on interview day, how to answer the most commonly asked questions, the difference between traditional and MMI interviews, tips for a smooth-running virtual Zoom experience, and more.

How To Write a Winning M7 Resume [6/18/2026] (Recording)

Crafting a standout resume is crucial when applying to M7 business schools, and I'm here to help you do just that! Join me, Sabrina, a Wharton MBA alum and experienced product manager, for an insightful session on how to write a winning M7 resume. During my time at Wharton, I served on the student admission committee, was co-president of the largest club on campus, and co-hosted the Wharton Fintech Podcast, giving me firsthand insight into what top business schools are looking for in applicants. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how to make your resume shine and increase your chances of getting into your dream MBA program. Space is limited, so RSVP now to secure your spot!

Ten things you can do today to launch your MBA application journey. [6/10/2026] (Recording)

The MBA application journey can feel overwhelming—but it doesn't have to start that way. The secret isn't finding a shortcut; it's knowing exactly where to begin. Whether you're 6 months out or just starting to explore your options, there are concrete, high-impact actions you can take right now to build momentum and set yourself up for success. This workshop breaks down ten practical steps you can take today to launch your MBA application journey with clarity and confidence. From strengthening your academic and test profile to crafting your narrative, identifying the right schools, and preparing the people in your corner, you'll leave with a clear action plan—not just inspiration. By the end of this session, you will be able to: * Identify the immediate steps that will have the greatest impact on your candidacy, no matter where you are in the process. * Strengthen your academic and test profile by addressing gaps proactively and positioning yourself for success. * Showcase career progression and leadership through an accomplishment-based resume and targeted professional achievements. * Begin crafting your story by clarifying your motivations, values, and post-MBA goals. * Secure powerful recommendations by selecting and preparing the right advocates early. * Demonstrate authentic school fit through research-driven insights that align your goals with each program's unique offerings.

Military to MBA Panel Oct 2025

​In this panel, Alex S., Alec E., and Zack D., veterans who have successfully transitioned from military service to top MBA programs will share their experiences and advice on making the leap. You’ll hear how they translated their leadership and operational skills into compelling applications, built strong narratives, and navigated the unique challenges of the transition. ​Whether you’re just starting to explore an MBA or actively preparing your applications, this session will give you practical insights, strategies, and inspiration to help you take the next step in your career with confidence.

What Deferred MBA Essays Need to Accomplish, and How to Get There

Deferred MBA essays are less about polished resumes and more about potential, clarity of goals, and long-term impact, and getting them right requires a very specific approach. In this session, you’ll learn what top programs actually expect deferred candidates to demonstrate, how admissions committees read these essays differently from traditional MBA applications, and how to structure your responses to show maturity, self-awareness, and trajectory. We’ll break down common pitfalls, winning themes, and practical steps to move from a blank page to a compelling final draft with confidence.

Deferred MBA Admissions Event Sprint Kickoff

Kick off Deferred MBA Week with an overview of everything you need to know to build a winning application strategy from start to finish. In this session, we’ll break down what makes deferred programs unique, what top schools are really looking for in early-career candidates, and how to use the rest of the sprint—panels, workshops, and AMAs—to your advantage. You’ll walk away with a clear game plan for essays, recommendations, testing, and timelines, plus guidance on how to prioritize your time based on where you are in the process.

How to Ace PM Interviews

Product management interviews can feel daunting—but with the right frameworks and preparation, you can walk into every conversation confident and ready. This session breaks down the core components of PM interviewing, from product sense and analytical thinking to execution, communication, and behavioral storytelling. You’ll learn how to structure clear, compelling answers, showcase your problem-solving skills, and avoid the common pitfalls that trip up candidates. Whether you're targeting Big Tech, high-growth startups, or rotational PM programs, this workshop will give you the tools to stand out and make a lasting impression.

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.

Am I Ready to Apply to Grad School?

​Applying to graduate school is a big step—and knowing when you’re truly ready can make all the difference. In this workshop, Kelly B.—a former Stanford admissions officer with experience reviewing thousands of applications across disciplines—will help you evaluate your readiness, strengthen your application strategy, and understand what admissions committees are really looking for. ​Whether you’re still exploring programs or preparing to hit submit, Kelly will share insider insights and practical tools to assess where you are in the process, highlight your unique strengths, and position yourself as a strong candidate.

Mock McKinsey Behavioral Interview (PEI)

Christina B. and Jeremy S. are two of Leland’s top management consulting coaches, and they’re teaming up to help you master McKinsey’s unique behavioral interview style called Personal Experience Interview (or PEI). Often underestimated, the PEI is one of the most pivotal parts of the consulting interview process. If you can tackle the PEI, you can likely ace any behavioral interview from any firm. ​Jeremy will interview Christina live. Learn what exceptional PEI performance really looks like from a former McKinsey hiring manager whose coaching helped 85% of candidates land MBB offers last cycle. We recommend this event whether you’ve kicked off your consulting interview prep process, or you're still deciding if consulting is for you.

McKinsey PEI Mock Interview

Christina B. and Jeremy S. are two of Leland’s top management consulting coaches, and they’re teaming up to help you master McKinsey’s unique behavioral interview style called Personal Experience Interview (or PEI). Often underestimated, the PEI is one of the most pivotal parts of the consulting interview process. If you can tackle the PEI, you can likely ace any behavioral interview from any firm. ​Jeremy will interview Christina live. Learn what exceptional PEI performance really looks like from a former McKinsey hiring manager whose coaching helped 85% of candidates land MBB offers last cycle. We recommend this event whether you’ve kicked off your consulting interview prep process, or you're still deciding if consulting is for you.