Leland+ for MBA

5 Tips for MBA Applicants from a Former Stanford Admissions Director

Insider advice on how to strengthen your MBA application—from storytelling and school fit to strategic positioning—straight from a former GSB gatekeeper.

Writing Standout Application Essays

​​Led by an experienced admissions panel, this session will provide you with valuable insights, proven strategies, and expert guidance to help you create impactful essays that reflect your unique experiences and aspirations.

Strategizing MBA Options for Experienced Candidates (EMBA Focus)

A resource for mid-career professionals exploring Executive MBA programs, with guidance on timing, program fit, and aligning your MBA choice with long-term leadership goals.

How to Prepare for MBA Interviews with Former M7 Admissions Officers

​In this session, former M7 admissions officers Kelsey K. (Columbia), Mike H. (Stanford), and Christine B. (Booth) will share insider strategies on how to prepare for one of the most critical parts of the MBA application process: the interview. From traditional behavioral questions to school-specific formats, you’ll learn what top programs are really evaluating and how to showcase your strengths with confidence. ​You’ll also gain practical tips on structuring your answers, communicating your story clearly, and avoiding the common mistakes that derail otherwise strong applicants. Whether you’re just beginning your prep or gearing up for final rounds, this session will equip you with the tools and insights you need to stand out in MBA interviews.

Your 3 Month Application Prep Plan with ex-GSB Admissions Director

With three months remaining to the first application deadlines in the 2026 cycle, there are several steps and approaches you can take to strengthen your application. Understanding what you can adapt (the content of your application) and what you can't (where you have worked, where you went to school, your GPA, etc.) needs to be evaluated strategically. Having worked in admissions at Stanford for more than a decade, I will offer tips to help you begin your business school learning journey now, using what you incorporate in your essays, recommendations and resume to tie together other aspects of your application and story.