Leland+ Content Library

Tackling the "Why This School" MBA Essay

Most MBA programs will have an essay along the lines of: "Why MBA; Why this school?" This is one of the most impactful parts of your application and is often the difference maker between getting an interview and getting a rejection. During this free session, I'll walk through: - What schools are actually looking for in this essay (explicitly and implicitly) - Common mistakes applicants make in this essay - How to structure this essay - Additional tips on crafting a standout essay

Law School: Apps & Their Bits and Pieces

A law school application is made up of many moving parts, and understanding how they fit together is key. This session is designed to break down each component of the law school application and how they work together to tell a cohesive story. In this event, you’ll learn the role of LSAT scores, transcripts, personal statements, resumes, and recommendations, along with common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re just starting out or refining your materials, you’ll leave with a clearer picture of how to build a strong application.

Deciding Where to Apply to Law School

Choosing where to apply to law school is one of the most consequential decisions you’ll make—and Leland coach Machmud M. is here to help you approach it strategically. In this session, he’ll break down the factors that actually influence your career trajectory, from employment outcomes and geographic placement to culture, curricular strengths, and long-term fit. You’ll learn how to separate signal from noise, evaluate programs through the lens of your personal goals, and build a school list that maximizes both opportunity and alignment. If you want to make confident, well-informed application decisions, this workshop is a must-attend.

What Top Law School Applicants Do Differently

Top law school applicants don’t just have strong stats — they approach the entire application process strategically. In this panel, experienced admissions coaches will break down what separates competitive candidates from the rest, from LSAT preparation and school selection to personal statements and interviews. You’ll learn how successful applicants build a clear narrative, avoid common mistakes, and position themselves effectively for top programs. Whether you’re early in the process or preparing to apply soon, this session will give you a sharper understanding of how to stand out.

Columbia Business School Example Essay: Inclusive Leadership

Example of an Inclusive Leadership essay that got the applicant into Columbia Business School.

Back to School for Pre-Dentals Panel

​In this panel, you’ll hear from dental school experts Rachael K., Ellen W., and Amy L., as they answer key questions on how to prepare and position yourself as a strong pre-dental applicant. The conversation will cover everything from course planning and extracurriculars to application strategy, shadowing, and common mistakes to avoid. ​Whether you’re just starting your pre-dental journey or gearing up to apply soon, this session will give you actionable insights and clear next steps to help you succeed in the classroom, on the DAT, and beyond.

How to Get Into Law School Panel

​In this panel, law school admissions experts Machmud M. (Stanford), Kevin P. (Duke), and Liz C. (University of Houston) will share what it really takes to stand out in today’s competitive applicant pool. From crafting a compelling personal statement and securing strong letters of recommendation to maximizing your LSAT score and building a well-rounded profile, you’ll gain insider perspectives on every stage of the process. ​Whether you’re just beginning to explore law school or are preparing to submit your applications, this session will give you practical strategies, common pitfalls to avoid, and the confidence to approach your applications with clarity and purpose.

Building Your Recommender Packets for Grad School

Crafting strong recommendation letters starts long before your recommender begins writing—and a well-built recommender packet can make all the difference. In this session, a top Leland coach and dual HBS / HKS admit Reagan C. will walk you through exactly what to include, how to organize it, and how to make your recommenders' jobs easier while ensuring they highlight your strongest qualities. You'll learn what admissions committees look for, how to frame your achievements effectively, and how to set your recommenders up to write letters that truly elevate your application.

The Amy Approach: Grad School Starter Kit

Checklist and prompts to get you started on your grad school search!

Columbia Business School: Essay 2: Career Goals

Example of a Short & Long Term Career Goals essay that got the applicant into Columbia Business School.

How to Get Into Dental School Panel

​Applying to dental school can feel daunting, but the right strategy makes all the difference. In this panel, you’ll hear from Ellen W (Admissions at Columbia), Rachael K (Admissions at Iowa) and Zach W (UCLA and UCONN) who will share practical advice on how to stand out in the application process. ​We’ll cover everything from building a competitive academic and extracurricular profile, to crafting compelling personal statements, preparing for the DAT, and securing strong letters of recommendation. Panelists will also discuss common pitfalls to avoid and share their insider tips for navigating interviews with confidence. Whether you’re just starting to explore dentistry or are deep in the application process, this session will give you the clarity and tools to succeed.

Vanderbilt Personal Essay – Growing Up on Her Own Terms

A coming-of-age story about medical uncertainty, self-advocacy, and redefining adulthood through confidence, curiosity, and inner growth.

Choosing Your Target Law Schools

Selecting the right law schools is one of the most important steps in shaping a successful application strategy. In this session, UCLA Law Alum and Law Review Editor Michael S. will guide you through factors to consider, including program strengths, culture, location, and career outcomes. You’ll learn how to match your profile to schools where you’ll be both competitive and fulfilled, and how to prioritize applications to maximize your chances of admission. By the end, you’ll have a clear framework for identifying and targeting the schools that align best with your goals.

GSB Recommender Packet – Strategy, Examples, and School Fit

A detailed support packet for MBA recommenders, including applicant background, key themes, timelines, and tailored guidance for Stanford, Haas, and Anderson.

Recommender Packet Example – School Targets, Themes, and Strategy

A dual-degree recommender briefing outlining deadlines, school-specific expectations, and key traits like inclusivity, data fluency, and social impact—complete with detailed examples for crafting strong letters.

Personal Statement — University of Maryland School of Dentistry

An aspiring dental student's personal statement, covering her journey from family pressure to mentorship and global health outreach.

Your Dental School Application Timeline, Starting Freshman Year

A comprehensive guide for pre-dental students to plan their four years, from coursework and extracurriculars to a successful application.

Crafting a Resume That Wins Fletcher School Admissions

See the actual resume that got one student accepted into The Fletcher School at Tufts University.

From Meh to Memorable: Law School Personal Statements

A strong law school personal statement can be the difference between blending in and standing out. In this session, top Leland coach and Harvard Law alum Dylan M. will break down what separates forgettable essays from memorable ones and why many applicants miss the mark. You’ll learn how to craft a clear narrative, highlight your motivations for law, and avoid common pitfalls that weaken otherwise strong applications.