Leland+ for MBA
Popular on Leland+
Intro to MBA Essay Writing
Translate your narrative into compelling MBA essays that demonstrate clarity of purpose, authenticity, and school fit.
Columbia Business School: The NYC Advantage
A deep dive into how Columbia Business School's geographic positioning puts it at a unique advantage.
Crafting Your Throughline
Distill your story into a central theme or “throughline” that ties together your experiences and goals.
Overview of the Waitlist Process
• Visual timeline from decision release → movement → final outcomes • Key decision points: R2 admit shifts, summer yield management • Typical volume of waitlisted candidates and admit conversion rates • School-specific examples (generalized, not data-heavy) • Summary: What you can and can’t control at each stage
MBA Essays with AI the Right Way
AI tools are changing how applicants approach MBA essays—but using them effectively (and ethically) is the real challenge. In this session, expert Leland coach Eric L. will show you how to leverage AI to brainstorm, structure, and refine your essays while keeping your unique voice front and center. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to make AI your ally in the application process and walk away with actionable strategies to craft essays that stand out to admissions committees.
Waitlist Self-Audit Worksheet
• Section 1: Application summary (GMAT/GRE, GPA, goals, recommenders) • Section 2: Strengths (what resonated or differentiates you) • Section 3: Gaps (academic, professional, narrative, or fit-related) • Section 4: Actionable improvements — list 2–3 moves in next 4–6 weeks • Section 5: Reflection prompt — “What new evidence can I show to close these gaps?”
Identify Your Missing Piece
• Walk through a real or hypothetical example of identifying gaps • How to differentiate between “substance gaps” and “communication gaps” • Example of turning a weakness (e.g., low quant score) into an update plan • Framework recap: Story – Strength – Fit • Call to action: complete your self-audit and select 1–2 improvement priorities
If You’re Admitted vs. If You’re Not – Next Steps and Growth Opportunities
• What to do immediately if admitted off the waitlist (next steps checklist) • If not admitted: reframing and reapplication mindset • How to carry lessons forward to strengthen next cycle applications • Managing timelines (deposits, deferrals, reapp deadlines) • Closing encouragement: progress > perfection
Essay 1 Brainstorm & Structure Worksheet
A guided worksheet designed to help you brainstorm impactful stories, identify key themes, and structure your Kellogg essay 1 with clarity and purpose.
Networking & Events Tracker
A customizable tracker to help you organize your Kellogg networking efforts and reference in applications and interviews.
MBA R1 Office Hour: Sprint to Submit with Former Admission Officer at Booth, Yale, and LBS
In this Office Hours session, seasoned coach Christine B. — a former admissions officer at Booth, LBS, and Yale SOM — will help you clarify exactly what it takes to make your MBA Round 1 application shine. Her no-nonsense approach breaks down what admissions committees look for and how to avoid common pitfalls, so you can approach this critical moment with strategy and confidence. Round 1 applications are opening soon and deadline will be here before you know it. Come prepared with your questions—whether that’s about finalizing your essays, fine-tuning your resume, preparing for interviews, or managing deadlines—so you can submit your strongest possible application.
Kellogg’s Core Identity
Explore what “high impact, low ego” really means and how this principle shapes the school’s culture, from classrooms to recruiting.
Kellogg Essay Walkthroughs
Detailed breakdown of Kellogg's core essays, how to structure your responses, and what they’re truly assessing.
Essay 2 Brainstorm & Structure Worksheet
A guided worksheet designed to help you brainstorm impactful stories, identify key themes, and structure your Kellogg essay 2 with clarity and purpose.
It's October, But I'm Stuck on my Essays!
Feeling stuck on your MBA application essays? You're not alone, and I'm here to help you successfully get to a Round 2 deadline. Join me for an insightful session where we'll tackle the art of crafting compelling essays that truly reflect your unique story and aspirations. With over 15 years of experience admitting student to every top MBA institution in the world, I will distill the components of effective essays that my clients have written to help you understand how to make your essay powerful and memorable. Whether you're applying for a traditional full-time MBA, deferred, executive, part-time, or online MBA, this session will provide you with the strategies and insights needed to elevate your application. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a competitive edge—RSVP now to secure your spot!
Example IB/PE Resume — Evercore IB
See an example resume that's been used for a variety of finance roles. The resume background highlights finance degree at UT Austin and work experience at Evercore and I Squared Capital.
Selecting and Guiding Recommenders
Learn how to choose the right recommender and equip them with stories that align with Kellogg’s leadership criteria.
Optional MBA Essay Example – Low GPA
MBA Optional Essay Example addressing a low GPA and mental health challenges. Asian Male.
Columbia Business School Mock Interview Guide
Mock Interview Guide with Questions and Suggestions
Deferred MBA Panel: Getting Started Early
In this panel, expert MBA coaches Geri T. (Harvard Business School), Timothy F. (Chicago Booth), and Claire R. (Stanford Graduate School of Business) will break down what you need to know about applying to deferred MBA programs and how to set yourself up for success early. From understanding what top schools look for to planning your academics, internships, and extracurriculars, you’ll get insider guidance on how to build a competitive profile while you’re still in school. You’ll also hear strategies for writing compelling essays, securing strong recommendations, and avoiding the common mistakes that applicants make. Whether you’re a college junior, senior, or early-career professional exploring deferred programs, this session will give you the tools and confidence to start your MBA journey on the right foot.
