Leland+ for MBA
Popular on Leland+
Deferred MBA Deep Dive: What You Need to Know Now
In this panel, join admissions experts Justin K., Kelsey K., and Siri G. who will break down everything you need to know about deferred MBA programs so that you have a concrete strategy going into application season. You’ll learn how these programs work, what top schools are looking for in college seniors and early-career applicants, and how to start building a strong application now. Check out their profiles here: Justin K. - Former BCG consultant and MIT Sloan MBA student with a strong record helping candidates land MBB offers and top MBA admits Kelsey K. - Former M7 Admissions Director and Columbia Business School Admissions Committee member with a 93% client acceptance rate and $180K average scholarship awards Siri G. - Accepted to deferred MBA programs at Harvard and Wharton from a non-target school through authentic, story-driven applications
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
Top 10 Ways to Strengthen Your Profile While Waitlisted
• Examples of high-impact updates: promotions, certifications, quant coursework, new leadership roles • How to frame achievements for the admissions committee • How to show ongoing engagement with the school (events, conversations, visits) • Building credibility through thoughtful updates, not volume • Quick-reference chart: “Update ideas by category (Academic / Professional / Personal / Fit)"
The Deferred Blueprint: A Detailed Guide to Breaking into M7 as a Deferred Applicant
Applying to deferred MBA programs can feel like a black box—especially when it comes to the ultra-competitive M7 schools. In this session, expert coach Tim F. will break down exactly what it takes to stand out as a deferred applicant. By the end, you’ll have a step-by-step blueprint for building a competitive application and putting yourself on the fast track to an M7 admit.
MIT Sloan: Overview and Application Breakdown
An overview of MIT Sloan and its application components.
MIT Sloan: Example Video Essay
An example of a video essay for the MIT Sloan MBA application.
MBA to Consulting Panel
Still planning to break into consulting before graduation? You're not alone, and it's not too late. This panel is designed for MBA students who are exploring full-time roles in consulting, whether you’re re-recruiting, pivoting, or looking to refine your strategy. Hear from Taylor R., Andrew H., and Rifat M., all of whom successfully landed consulting offers later in the MBA journey as they share practical advice on networking, storytelling, case prep, and how to stand out in a competitive recruiting cycle. If you're hoping to make the jump into MBB or other top firms, this session will help you make the most of the months ahead.
Waitlist 101 Guide
• Mindset shift: from “waiting” to “strategic repositioning” • Common emotional pitfalls (panic, over-updating, disengagement) • How to maintain professionalism and perspective • Setting intentions for the next 4–8 weeks • Quick self-checklist: “Am I reacting or responding?”
Industry Placement & Recruiting Landscape
Identify where Kellogg grads go - from consulting and PE/VC to CPG, tech, and sustainability - and what this reveals about the school’s career DNA.
MBA Interview Series: Columbia
The Columbia Business School interview is your chance to move beyond the application and show who you are as a candidate. In this event, Melanie E. (a former CBS Adcomm and interviewer) will walk you through what to expect, how to prepare, and strategies to stand out in the CBS interview process. You’ll gain insight into the types of questions asked, how to tell your story with confidence, and what Columbia admissions committees value most in applicants. Whether you’re applying this round or preparing for the future, this session will give you the tools to approach your interview with clarity, poise, and authenticity.
Office Hours with Former MBA AdComs & Admissions Experts
Join us for an exclusive Office Hours session with former MBA Admissions Committee members and top admissions experts! This is your chance to get insider advice on the MBA application process—directly from those who used to make the decisions. Learn how to craft a compelling narrative, avoid common pitfalls, and stand out in competitive applicant pools. Whether you're just starting your MBA journey or putting the finishing touches on your application, our panelists are here to answer all your questions. Meet our panelists: Faisal K., Chicago Booth MBA, Chicago Booth Admissions Office, coached 100+ M7 admits, 15 years of experience aiding US and international applicants translate their rich global experiences into compelling, relevant, and memorable applications. Avi L., UC Berkeley, former USC Director of Admissions and admissions reader at Berkeley, expert in helping applicants identify how to tell their story in way that makes them stand out. Emily L., UC Berkeley Haas, former Haas Co-VP of Admissions, trained and mentored by former M7 AdCom members, extensive experience with clients with below median test scores.
MBA Resume: How to Structure It
Learn how to structure your MBA resume for maximum impact. We break down the key sections and how to present your experience effectively.
STAR Response Worksheet
A guided worksheet to help you structure impactful interview answers using the STAR framework, highlighting your actions, results, and leadership in a clear, compelling way.
Common Questions & Response Frameworks
Common Questions & Response Frameworks
Understanding the Kellogg Interview Format
Overview of Kellogg’s behavioral interview and how it reflects the school’s culture and values.
Networking with Students & Alumni
Strategies for meaningful outreach to Kellogg students and alumni.
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.
Kellogg Program & Academics
Understand the structure of the MBA program, including majors, pathways, and global learning experiences that define Kellogg’s academic edge.
Career Story & Post-MBA Goals
Structuring a compelling international career narrative
Addressing Weak Spots
GPA conversion, school prestige gaps, job title confusion
