Leland+ Content Library

Applying to MBA Programs with a Nontraditional Background

A guide to crafting a compelling MBA application that highlights your unique strengths as a nontraditional candidate.

Example MBA Recommender Prep Doc for M7 Programs

Learn how to prepare your recommenders so you can secure strong MBA recommendations that highlight your unique strengths and impact.

APM Programs Explained: Insights from a LinkedIn APM

A LinkedIn APM shares key insights into Associate Product Manager programs. Learn what a day in the life of an APM is really like!

MBA Interview Success: What Top Programs Look For

MBA interviews aren’t just about answering questions—they’re about showing who you are, how you think, and why you belong in a top-tier program. In this session, you’ll learn exactly how elite schools evaluate candidates, from behavioral depth and self-awareness to leadership potential and communication style. We’ll break down common interview formats (including blind interviews, behavioral deep dives, and scenario-based questions), teach you how to structure compelling answers, and share strategies for showcasing authenticity while still being polished and strategic. You’ll walk away with a clear playbook for standing out in any MBA interview setting.

Study in China’s #1 School: Schwarzman Scholars Application Guide

The Schwarzman Scholars program offers a fully funded master’s experience at Tsinghua University, designed to develop future global leaders with deep insight into China’s role in the world. In this session, you’ll learn what makes a competitive Schwarzman application, how to position your leadership story, and how to navigate the program’s unique essays and interview process. Whether you’re early in your research or preparing to apply, you’ll leave with a clear roadmap to strengthen your candidacy for one of the world’s most prestigious scholarship programs.

DIY Your Stand-Out Summer Program or Project that Colleges Notice

Can't afford fancy summer programs? Didn’t get around to applying to summer programs? No problem! Create a summer experience that turns heads in admissions offices ands fuels your personal interests. This workshop reveals how to design and execute impressive self-directed summer projects that both strengthen college applications and deepen your unique interests. Learn how to transform curiosity into meaningful action without expensive programs. Perfect for ambitious high schoolers seeking authentic growth opportunities that naturally translate to applications that shine.

Crushing Vocab in the GRE

Tired of flashcards? Learn a proven system to master high-frequency GRE vocabulary, boost your verbal score, and get into your target program.

Tracking Law School Research and Applications

Master the law school application process. Learn how to research schools, track deadlines, and manage your applications to get into your dream program.

Zoom Fatigue Is Real: 10 Tips for Virtual Presentation Mastery

Emmy-winning coach Ann Keil Dux shares top strategies to stay energized, focused, and confident on camera.

Save $100k+ vs US: Europe Master's with Fulbright Funding- Application

Top-ranked European institutions offer world-class master's degrees that save Americans $93,000 to $161,000 compared to equivalent-ranked US graduate programs. I understand this journey firsthand: I was a Fulbright scholar myself. What unites successful recipients? They discovered that Americans have significantly higher Fulbright acceptance rates than any other prestigious international scholarship, and with good strategy, your chances are quite high. European universities combine academic excellence with financial accessibility. Hundreds of top-ranked institutions offer English-taught master's programs with clear pathways to meaningful careers. The financial impact is transformative: saving $100,000+ on graduate education is equivalent to having more than $1,000 per month in additional disposable income for the next 10 years. You gain not just a degree, but entry into one of the most prestigious international networks while making significant international experience. With post-study work visas up to 36 months, European employers increasingly recruit international master's graduates, creating unprecedented opportunities for ambitious graduates. Now is the time to act: preparation work for the 2027-2028 Fulbright cycle begins in February 2026, applications open in April, and most students face campus pre-selection deadlines in August before the October national deadline. Join me for this free event where we cover strategic country selection, application components, timeline preparation, post-graduation employment pathways, and real cost comparisons with equivalent-ranked US programs. What if this high-quality, fully-funded path to advanced education and a European career is exactly your calling?

The STEM Master’s Application Timeline: What to Do and When

Applying to STEM master’s programs is as much about timing as it is about qualifications, and knowing what to do when can give you a major advantage. This session breaks down the full application timeline, from early preparation and test planning to essays, recommendations, school selection, and final submission. You’ll learn how to prioritize tasks, avoid last-minute stress, and align your experiences and materials with competitive STEM programs. Whether you’re just starting to plan or already mid-cycle, this workshop will help you stay organized, proactive, and on track.

(Sept 2025) Demystifying Master's Admissions: What You Need to Know

​​Thinking about graduate school but not sure where to start? In just 30 minutes, this fast-paced and informative session will walk you through the essentials of applying to a master’s program—from choosing the right school to submitting a strong application. Whether you're returning to school after a break, switching careers, or aiming to level up in your field, this webinar will equip you with clear next steps, practical tips, and confidence to begin your journey. ​​Join Amy G., Columbia & NYU Grad Enrollment Leader, to learn what admissions committees look for, how to stand out, and how to stay organized and focused throughout the process.

Stanford MBA Essay - "What Matters Most to You and Why?"

Read an example essay for the Stanford Graduate School of Business focused on helping emerging markets grow.

MBA Resume Guide: Transform Your Resume for Top Programs

Your resume is one of the most important parts of your MBA application, but most applicants approach it the wrong way. Instead of showcasing leadership, impact, and growth, they list responsibilities and tasks. As a result, their resume fails to clearly communicate their value to admissions committees. This guide shows you exactly how to fix that. Inside, you’ll learn how to transform a standard professional resume into a compelling MBA resume that highlights your achievements, leadership, and trajectory. You’ll get: • A step-by-step process for rewriting your resume into MBA format • Clear before-and-after examples of weak vs strong bullet points • A simple framework for turning responsibilities into measurable impact • Guidance on how to show leadership, initiative, and progression • The “First 6 Lines” test to ensure your resume makes a strong first impression This resource is designed to help you create a resume that is clear, focused, and immediately communicates your strengths to admissions committees. Whether you are just getting started or refining your application, this guide will give you a practical, structured approach to building a stronger MBA resume.

School List Development Guide

A step-by-step guide to developing a balanced and compelling school list for any master’s program. Learn how to categorize, research, and narrow your options strategically.

Essay Edit: Watch Me Transform an Underwhelming Master Essay Draft

Ever wonder what turns a decent essay into an admit-worthy one? In this live session, expert Leland coach and former AdComs at Harvard Karla M. will walk you through the process of transforming a real, underwhelming master’s essay into a compelling, polished narrative. You’ll see how to refine structure, elevate storytelling, and bring clarity and personality to your writing. By the end, you’ll have a clear framework and practical editing techniques to strengthen your own essays and stand out in the admissions process.

OET Speaking Task: Master the Stroke Sample with This Guide

Get clear strategies to ace the OET speaking task focused on stroke patient scenarios.

School-Specific Interview Guides

Master the interview for top MBA, grad, and undergrad programs with our school-specific guides. Get the edge you need for admissions.

Craft a Powerful Essay for Stanford GSB: What Matters Most & Why?

A GSB expert shows you how to plan and write one of the GSB's primary application essays: What Matters Most to You and Why?