Leland+ for College

The Stanford Essays That Got Me Accepted

A deep dive into the essays that earned a spot at Stanford. Learn how to craft a compelling narrative that stands out to admissions committees.

AFOQT Math Formulas Sheet

You don’t need to memorize hundreds of formulas — you need to understand when and why to use each one.

MBA Recommender Packets

A step-by-step playbook for setting up recommenders for success and turning your recommenders into your strongest advocates.

Stanford University Admit: Common App Essay Example

Read the Common App essay that got me into Stanford based on this 2024 prompt: Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Stanford University Admit: Distinctive Contribution Example

Read a short essay that got me into Stanford based on this 2024 prompt: Please describe what aspects of your life experiences, interests and character would help you make a distinctive contribution as an undergraduate to Stanford University.

Stanford University Admit: Activities and Extracurriculars Example

See the activities and extracurriculars that got me into Stanford University.

Supplemental Essays: An Overview

A comprehensive guide to understanding supplemental essays, with tips on why they're important, how to approach them, and how to make them stand out.

How to Ask the Interviewer the Right Questions

Learn how to ask strategic, insightful questions during your interview that demonstrate your interest and help you determine if the company is the right fit for you.

Best Career Paths To Pay Off Student Loans Fast

Student debt doesn’t have to define your financial future. In this workshop, Ben L. —a Stanford GSB alum, McKinsey consultant, and startup advisor—will share how to strategically choose and navigate career paths that maximize income, equity potential, and long-term financial freedom. Drawing on his experience across consulting, private equity, venture capital, startups, and public policy, Ben will break down which industries, roles, and career strategies offer the fastest routes to paying off loans while still aligning with your values and lifestyle goals. Whether you’re graduating soon, pursuing your MBA, or looking to pivot into a higher-paying path, this session will help you think critically about how to leverage your skills for both impact and financial independence. Space is limited, so RSVP to secure your spot. We’re excited to be on the career journey with you! And don’t forget to sign up for a free Leland account to stay in the loop for more free events, discounts, and career resources.

Stanford Accepted Personal Statement: Crafting a Story of Identity

A deep dive into a powerful personal statement. Learn to craft a unique, compelling narrative from your own life experiences to stand out to admissions.

The Interview: What Not to Do

Avoid the most common mistakes in your interviews, from poor body language to unprepared answers, to make a lasting and positive impression on your interviewer.

What Not to Include in the Additional Info Essay

Avoid the most common mistakes on the "additional information" essay, including using it as a third personal statement, making excuses for poor grades, or simply repeating information found elsewhere in your application.

Ask a Former Adcom: How to Get Into BYU

A former BYU admissions officer breaks down the holistic review process and shares what they're really looking for in applications.

Best Practices for Supplemental Essays

Master the art of supplemental essays with expert tips and strategies for crafting compelling, authentic responses that strengthen your application.

Additional Info Essay 1: Example & Analysis

Learn how to use the optional "additional information" essay to strengthen your application and address weaknesses.

Why is the Extracurricular Section Important?

An overview of why the extracurricular section is a vital part of your application, with a focus on how it showcases your passions, time management skills, and potential contributions to the campus community.

The Waitlist Strategy

A step-by-step guide on what to do after being waitlisted by a college, with strategies for writing a compelling Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI) and maximizing your chances of admission.

Supplemental Essays: What Not To Do

Avoid the most common mistakes on your supplemental essays and learn how to write a compelling narrative that is specific to the school and prompt.

What is an Extracurricular List?

An overview of the extracurricular list, explaining its purpose in the application process and how it is used to showcase your unique passions, skills, and personal growth outside of the classroom.

Oxford Personal Statement Example

A deep dive into an impactful Oxford personal statement. Learn how to craft a compelling narrative that showcases your personal experiences and analytical skills.