Leland+ Content Library

How to Choose the Right International Career Move [6/10/2026] (Recording)

If you're considering a move abroad, a degree in another country, or a pivot into a more international career, the hardest part is often not ambition: it's choosing well. A lot of smart professionals get stuck between several “good” options: stay where you are and keep building, go abroad for a master's, switch markets, accept a less obvious opportunity that may open bigger doors later, or wait for a clearer path. This webinar is designed to help you think through those decisions more strategically. In this session, we'll look at how to evaluate an international move in a way that goes beyond excitement, fear, or generic expat advice. We’ll cover how to weigh career upside against cost, visa realities, employability, timing, and quality of life, and how to identify which option actually fits your long-term goals. In this webinar, you'll learn: - how to evaluate whether an international move is strategically worth it - when a degree abroad makes sense and when it probably doesn’t - how to compare countries, cities, and career markets more realistically - what people often underestimate about visas, employability, and timing - how to choose between a safer path and a more ambitious one - how to make a move that is not just exciting, but coherent By the end of the session, you’ll leave with: - a clearer framework for evaluating your next international career step - better questions to ask before committing time, money, or energy - a more realistic understanding of what makes a move viable - more clarity on whether your best next step is to relocate, study, stay put, or reposition first This webinar is for professionals who are: - considering relocating for work - debating whether to pursue a master’s or MBA abroad - trying to break into a new international market - weighing multiple career paths across countries - looking for a more strategic way to plan a global career move Whether you're early in the process or already deciding between specific options, this session will help you think more clearly and move forward with a stronger strategy.

Advanced Quant Questions: Overlapping Sets [7/16/2026] (Recording)

The overlapping set formula you were taught is just wrong. It doesn’t work. Learn the formula that does work and unlock even the hardest questions quickly and easily. This session is for GRE test takers who want to master one of the trickiest quant topics with more speed and confidence. You’ll learn a more reliable framework, avoid common setup mistakes, and solve difficult overlapping sets questions more efficiently. Join live to hear from a GRE expert who specializes in helping students score 325+. The speaker will break down the patterns behind the toughest overlapping sets questions and share practical strategies you can immediately apply in your own prep. Expect high-impact techniques designed to help you pick up points on even the most challenging quant problems.

How AI is Changing Software Engineering Recruiting

AI is transforming software engineering faster than most candidates realize. The hiring playbook that worked a few years ago is no longer enough. In this session, you’ll explore how AI is influencing the recruiting landscape and what that means for aspiring software engineers. We’ll discuss emerging trends, evolving expectations, and how to think strategically about preparing in a market that’s changing in real time. If you want to compete where hiring is headed, not where it used to be, this conversation will help you stay ahead.

Build Your Medical School Application Plan

Medical school applications are a marathon, not a sprint—and the right plan can change everything. This session helps you step back, see the full picture, and build an application strategy that actually works. You’ll learn how to map out your timeline, focus on the experiences and metrics that matter most, and avoid common missteps that derail strong applicants. If you want to approach the med school process with confidence and control (instead of stress), this session will give you the framework to do it.

Applying to College in 2026? Here’s What You Should Be Doing Each Month [5/27/2026] (Recording)

In this session, former admissions director, Loubna Bouamane, will walk students and parents through the real college admissions timeline from May through December — including what actually matters each month if you're aiming for competitive U.S. universities. We’ll cover: How to build a balanced college list strategically When students should start essays (and why waiting until September is risky) How extracurriculars and summer activities should be positioned What admissions officers notice early in the review process Common mistakes students make over the summer Testing timelines, recommendation strategy, and application planning How to avoid creating an application that feels overly polished or AI-generated This session is especially helpful for: Rising seniors applying in Fall 2026 International students navigating the U.S. admissions process Families targeting selective colleges and universities Students feeling overwhelmed or behind

Pivoting into Equity Research: Tips for Early- and Mid-Career Professionals

Breaking into equity research can feel opaque - especially if you are coming from a nontraditional or STEM background - but the transition is absolutely achievable with the right strategy. In this session, Diane K. will share practical guidance drawn from her experience covering SMID Biotech and Healthcare at Goldman Sachs and working in corporate development at a venture-backed startup with over $650M in funding. You’ll learn the top things to consider when making an entry or pivot into equity research, how to position your background for research roles, and the key to-dos for getting started with an equity research job search. Whether you are early in your career or making a mid-career pivot, this workshop will help you understand what matters most and how to stand out.

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.

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.

Applying to College in 2026? Here’s What You Should Be Doing Each Month [8/10/2026] (Recording)

In this session, former admissions director, Loubna Bouamane, will walk students and parents through the real college admissions timeline from May through December — including what actually matters each month if you're aiming for competitive U.S. universities. We’ll cover: How to build a balanced college list strategically When students should start essays (and why waiting until September is risky) How extracurriculars and summer activities should be positioned What admissions officers notice early in the review process Common mistakes students make over the summer Testing timelines, recommendation strategy, and application planning How to avoid creating an application that feels overly polished or AI-generated This session is especially helpful for: Rising seniors applying in Fall 2026 International students navigating the U.S. admissions process Families targeting selective colleges and universities Students feeling overwhelmed or behind

MBA Essay Bootcamp: How to tell a story no other applicant can [6/18/2026] (Recording)

Unlock the secrets to crafting an unforgettable MBA essay with our MBA Essay Bootcamp! Join me, Hanie, as we dive into the art of storytelling that sets you apart from the competition. With my background as a Schwarzman Scholar at Tsinghua University and an MBA graduate from Columbia Business School, I bring a wealth of experience in admissions and essay crafting. In this session, we'll explore how to weave your unique experiences into a compelling narrative that resonates with admissions committees. Whether you're just starting your application journey or looking to refine your essays, this bootcamp is designed to elevate your application strategy. Spaces are limited, so RSVP now to secure your spot and take the first step towards your dream MBA program!

Nailing the CBS MBA Essays w/ New 2026 Tips! [7/8/2026] (Recording)

Are you ready to tackle the Columbia Business School MBA essays with confidence? Join me, Melanie, for an exclusive session where we'll dive into the latest tips for the 2026 application cycle. With my background as an MBA Admissions Interviewer at CBS and an MBA alum from both Columbia Business School, I have the insights you need to craft compelling essays that stand out. In this session, we'll cover proven, actionable strategies specific to each of Columbia's essays. Whether you're applying for a traditional full-time MBA or a dual degree program, this event is designed to help you succeed. Spaces are limited, so be sure to RSVP and secure your spot. I look forward to helping you on your journey to CBS!

Crafting an MBA Essay That Actually Stands Out [5/12/2026] (Recording)

FREE LELAND + FOR 1 MONTH FOR ALL LIVE ATTENDEES. Strong MBA essays aren’t just well-written, they clearly communicate who you are and why you belong at a program. This session is for applicants who want to move beyond generic advice and craft essays that genuinely stand out. You’ll learn how to develop a focused personal narrative, avoid common mistakes that dilute your story, and align your essays with what admissions readers are actually looking for. Join live to hear from MBA admissions experts and ask questions about your own essay ideas. The panelists regularly work with applicants on essay development and will share the patterns they see across successful submissions. Expect practical feedback and insights similar to what’s covered in 1:1 coaching conversations.

Understanding Your Burnout: When Ambition Outpaces Alignment

​This workshop is designed to support ambitious professionals in understanding burnout beyond just feeling tired—it’s frequently a sign of mismatch between personal values, work, and environment. Executive and leadership coaching expert Debonné N. (Current Sr. Director of Comms @ Blue Shield) led the TIS program for the city and county of San Francisco which diagnosed and proactively addressed burnout in essential workers. ​Debonné N. will look into how burnout manifests in high-achievers, paying attention to the emotional and physical signals that might go unnoticed. Plus, we'll share practical strategies to help you regain clarity, boost creativity, and find balance. Combining insights, stories, and strategies, this session will help you build self-awareness to confidently reimagine your next career chapter with renewed energy and purpose.

MBA Admissions Panel: How to Get into your Dream School

​Breaking into a top MBA program takes more than strong grades and work experience — it requires a compelling application strategy that sets you apart. In this panel, you’ll hear directly from Kelsey K. (Admissions at Columbia), Ben L. (Stanford MBA), and Allie K. (Wharton MBA) who have successfully navigated the admissions process at leading business schools. ​Our panelists will share their best advice on crafting standout essays, building a competitive profile, securing strong recommendations, and preparing for interviews. They’ll also dive into common mistakes to avoid and the strategies that helped them get admitted to their dream schools. Whether you’re just starting to think about an MBA or are in the thick of applications, this session will give you the insider guidance you need to stand out.

Nailing the CBS MBA Essays w/ New 2026 Tips! [8/4/2026] (Recording)

Are you ready to tackle the Columbia Business School MBA essays with confidence? Join me, Melanie, for an exclusive session where we'll dive into the latest tips for the 2026 application cycle. With my background as an MBA Admissions Interviewer at CBS and an MBA alum from both Columbia Business School, I have the insights you need to craft compelling essays that stand out. In this session, we'll cover proven, actionable strategies specific to each of Columbia's essays. Whether you're applying for a traditional full-time MBA or a dual degree program, this event is designed to help you succeed. Spaces are limited, so be sure to RSVP and secure your spot. I look forward to helping you on your journey to CBS!

Nailing the CBS MBA Essays w/ New 2026 Tips! [6/16/2026] (Recording)

Are you ready to tackle the Columbia Business School MBA essays with confidence? Join me, Melanie, for an exclusive session where we'll dive into the latest tips for the 2026 application cycle. With my background as an MBA Admissions Interviewer at CBS and an MBA alum from both Columbia Business School, I have the insights you need to craft compelling essays that stand out. In this session, we'll cover proven, actionable strategies specific to each of Columbia's essays. Whether you're applying for a traditional full-time MBA or a dual degree program, this event is designed to help you succeed. Spaces are limited, so be sure to RSVP and secure your spot. I look forward to helping you on your journey to CBS!

MBA Application Fundamentals for Non-Traditional Candidates [7/7/2026] (Recording)

Are you applying to business school with a non-traditional or non-business background? Are you intimidated by the application process, unsure on where to start, or just a little stuck on ways to communicate your experience? If so, this session is for you! ​During this event, we'll discuss: • Common myths about MBA class profiles • Current trends in MBA admissions • Market trends about post-MBA jobs • How non-traditional candidates can stand out About Laura: I've led a multifaceted career path across the entertainment, tech, marketing, and consulting industries, with a particular focus on guiding MBA candidates toward their dreams. Early on, I recognized that I wanted to pursue marketing. To learn more about it, I networked, listened, pitched myself, and floated the idea of pursuing an MBA. I heard "no" more often than not, and I forged ahead. The University of Michigan - Ross School of Business's full-time MBA was a transformational experience, building my business foundation, practical experience, network, and confidence. Simultaneously, I started paying it forward to future MBA candidates. My professional and MBA admissions consulting experience make me uniquely qualified to support candidates seeking admission to top MBA programs to facilitate their professional and development goals. As a marketing professional, I've: 🧱 Established departments at 4 startups – from Series A to publicly held companies 📈 Generated demand for >50% of revenue across 2 organizations 🚀 Launched new products, features, and lines of service 💵 Served at 2 consecutive organizations with acquisition exits ↗️ Ascended to the VP of Marketing role on an executive leadership team As an MBA admissions consultant, I've: 🥇 Contributed to 2 leading MBA admissions firms 📝 Collaborated with >300 candidates applying to top MBA programs 🎓 Facilitated successful applications to all M7, Top 20 U.S., and Top 10 international MBA programs 💰 Enabled clients to earn millions of dollars in scholarship funding 💫 Co-founded a brand and earned consistent 5-star ratings from satisfied clients

8 Make or Break Founder Decisions

​Every startup journey is filled with tough choices—but some matter more than others. In this session, expert coach and founder Angela C. will walk through the eight critical decisions that can determine whether your company scales successfully or stalls. Drawing on firsthand experience and lessons learned, she’ll share practical advice you won’t find in a textbook. ​Whether you’re still refining your idea or actively scaling your venture, you’ll leave this session with clarity on which decisions to prioritize, how to approach them, and how to avoid the pitfalls that trip up many founders.

MBA Recommender Briefing Packet: Turn a Good Letter Into a Great One

Your recommenders are busy, and vague praise doesn't move admissions committees. This template makes it easy to equip them: a one-page timeline of the only dates that matter, your goals and story condensed so the letter matches your essays, and a quality-by-quality evidence table that jogs their memory with specific, dated examples. It also coaches recommenders directly on the four traits of a strong MBA letter, specific stories, honest comparison, a genuine development arc, and their own voice, so you never have to have that awkward conversation yourself.