Leland+ Content Library

Inside the Admissions Process: Featuring Directors from Yale, NYU, and Duke

What really happens behind the scenes when you hit “submit” on your MBA application? In Part 1 of this session, admissions directors from Yale SOM, NYU Stern, and Duke Fuqua will pull back the curtain on how applications are evaluated, what committees prioritize, and the signals that separate strong applicants from the rest. Panelists include Bruce DelMonico (Assistant Dean for Admissions @ Yale), Matthew Moll (Director of MBA Admissions @ Stern), and Allison Jamison (Assistant Dean of Admissions @ Duke). ​​You’ll hear directly from decision-makers about how they assess essays, recommendations, test scores, and interviews—plus the common mistakes they see every year. Whether you’re finalizing your application or just getting started, this panel will give you rare, insider insight into the admissions process at top programs and practical strategies to improve your chances of success.

Breaking Into Equity Research: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Equity research is one of the most sought-after yet misunderstood paths in finance. In this session, you’ll gain a clear picture of what the role actually entails, from the skills analysts use day-to-day to the expectations recruiters bring into the interview process. We’ll cover everything from building models and writing reports to staying on top of market-moving news, so you know exactly what to expect. ​Leading the session is Leland coach William L., a former U.S. Equity Associate Analyst at T. Rowe Price who specialized in enterprise and cybersecurity software research. Drawing from his first-hand experience, William will share actionable strategies to prepare for interviews, showcase your passion for the markets, and set yourself apart as a candidate—so you can break into equity research and thrive once you’re there.

Breaking Into Equity Research: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Equity research is one of the most sought-after yet misunderstood paths in finance. In this session, you’ll gain a clear picture of what the role actually entails, from the skills analysts use day-to-day to the expectations recruiters bring into the interview process. We’ll cover everything from building models and writing reports to staying on top of market-moving news, so you know exactly what to expect. ​Leading the session is Leland coach William L., a former U.S. Equity Associate Analyst at T. Rowe Price who specialized in enterprise and cybersecurity software research. Drawing from his first-hand experience, William will share actionable strategies to prepare for interviews, showcase your passion for the markets, and set yourself apart as a candidate—so you can break into equity research and thrive once you’re there.

GMAT or GRE: Which Test to Choose and How to Decide

GMAT vs GRE - which test to choose and how to decide

Intro to Logical Reasoning: Breaking Down the Task and the Stimulus

Are you new to studying for the LSAT? Or has a commercial test prep course left you confused with their complicated jargon and unintuitive hacks? This is the first presentation in a series that will break down logical reasoning in a simple, practical way. Many LSAT prep approaches were crafted by people who performed really well on the LSAT but may not have ever practiced law, or possibly never even went to law school. What those courses miss are the every day applications of LSAT skills to real-world law school scenarios and legal practice. I am a graduate of Georgetown Law who scored in the 97th percentile on the LSAT with several years' experience practicing at one of the most prominent law firms in the country, as well as a mid-sized boutique. My work in legal research, case strategy, briefing, discovery, and client relationships have informed my perspective on the LSAT. I know the LSAT is not just a test to be hacked, but rather a sensible evaluation of the skills required to succeed in law school and legal practice. My innovative curriculum has helped hundreds of students in my classes at Indiana University and Portland State University, as well as the private tutoring students I have been working with over the past 13+ years. In this session of the series, we will cover the following topics: - Why logical reasoning? - What is the "task"? - What is the "stimulus"? - How to approach logical reasoning questions - The types of logical reasoning questions, and - Beneficial study resources and strategies

Supplemental Essays and Law School Admissions: Which Ones Should You Write?

When it comes to law school admissions, supplemental essays can make or break your application—but how do you know which ones are worth writing? In this workshop, Liz C.—a law school admissions expert with nearly a decade of experience, including eight years at the University of Houston Law Center—will break down the most common supplemental essays and how to approach them strategically. ​Drawing on her experience reading thousands of applications, Liz will share insider advice on optional essays, diversity statements, and addenda—helping you decide when to write, what to include, and how to make each piece count. Whether you’re applying to T-14 programs or regional schools, you’ll leave this session knowing how to tailor your essays to stand out authentically.

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.

Inside the Admissions Process: Featuring Directors from Booth, Ross, and SMU

What really happens behind the scenes when you hit “submit” on your MBA application? In Part 2 this session, admissions directors from Chicago Booth, SMU Cox, and Michigan Ross will pull back the curtain on how applications are evaluated, what committees prioritize, and the signals that separate strong applicants from the rest. Panelists include Nicole Chen (Director of Student Recruitment and Admissions @ Booth), Lindsay DiAngelo (Associate Director of MBA Admissions @ Ross), and Shelly Heinrich (Assistant Dean of Admissions @ SMU). ​You’ll hear directly from decision-makers about how they assess essays, recommendations, test scores, and interviews—plus the common mistakes they see every year. Whether you’re finalizing your application or just getting started, this panel will give you rare, insider insight into the admissions process at top programs and practical strategies to improve your chances of success.

Resume from HBS, GSB, & Kellogg Admit | Technology and Life Sciences Background

A polished resume from an applicant admitted to HBS, GSB, and Kellogg, demonstrating a strong track record in technology and life sciences.

Bain Cover Letter Sample – Social Impact, Leadership, and Mission-Driven Consulting

A thoughtful and values-driven cover letter illustrating a transition from nonprofit leadership and policy research into consulting, with a strong alignment to Bain’s collaborative culture and commitment to women’s advancement.

Intro to AI Productivity: Everything is 1's and 0's

This is a basic introduction to AI that helps establish simple concepts.

The Product Manager Skillset: Hard, Soft, and How to Show It

Great product managers balance technical fluency and analytical rigor with strong communication, judgment, and leadership, but knowing how to demonstrate those skills in interviews and on the job is just as important as building them. This session breaks down the core hard and soft skills hiring managers look for in PM candidates and shows how to translate your experience into clear, credible signals through resumes, stories, and interview responses. You’ll leave with a sharper understanding of how to showcase your full PM skillset in a way that feels authentic and compelling.

Your Path to PE: Non-IB Strategies, Skills, and Opportunities – AMA

Breaking into private equity without an investment banking background is challenging—but far from impossible. In this AMA-style session, expert Leland coach and former consultant turned PE Connor P. will answer your questions about the alternative paths into PE, the skills that matter most, and how to position a non-IB background competitively.

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.

PE 101 for Interviewees and Professionals: Deal Dynamics, Diligence, & Value Creation

Private equity can feel complex from the outside, but understanding deal flow, diligence, and value creation is essential—whether you're preparing for interviews or entering the industry. In this session, Saleem H., an early graduate from a non-target school who has built a career in private equity after consulting, will break down the fundamentals in a way that’s approachable and practical. Having mentored dozens of candidates into top MBA programs, MBB and Tier-2 consultancies, boutique firms, and competitive PE roles, Saleem brings hands-on experience and a passion for supporting nontraditional, first-gen, and early-career professionals. He’ll walk you through how firms evaluate deals, where analysts and associates drive the most impact, and what interviewers expect you to know about value creation from day one.

Stanford GSB Essay: ‘What Matters Most to You, and Why’ (Admitted)

The essay that got me into Stanford GSB. A clear, introspective response to “What matters most to you, and why,” centered on reflection about leadership under pressure, initiative, and building trust in uncertain environments.

How to Answer Stanford’s “What Matters Most to You and Why?”

Stanford’s “What matters most to you and why?” is one of the most challenging MBA essay prompts, and many applicants struggle to answer it with real depth and clarity. This session is for candidates applying to Stanford who want to approach this essay with a more thoughtful and effective strategy. You’ll learn how to identify a meaningful central theme, avoid common pitfalls that make essays feel surface-level, and structure a response that feels both personal and compelling to admissions readers.

AI Monthly News Update - January 2026

This is the first of a series of monthly news updates related to advancements in AI. This update covers AI tools and LLMs, global AI and infrastructure, robotics and gadgets, and the impact of these advancements on daily life and business. Work with Solomon or join his upcoming bootcamp (AI Mastery - March 2026) at this link: https://www.joinleland.com/bootcamps/ai-mastery-bootcamp

10 Common Mistakes Applicants Make in Private Equity Recruiting - And How to Avoid Them

Private Equity (PE) recruiting is one of the most competitive processes in finance. Whether you're an investment banking analyst, a management consultant, or coming from corporate development, breaking into PE takes more than just technical know-how. It’s about strategy, preparation, and self-awareness.

Pre-MBA Resume Sample

Pre-MBA resume showcasing strategic leadership in tech and analytics, used to earn admission to both HBS and MIT Sloan in Round 1