Leland+ for MBA

Writing Standout Application Essays

​Led by Tim F. (Former Adcom at Chicago Booth), Laura N. (Former Adcom at Michigan Ross), and Angela C. (Stanford) 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. ​​​Discover top tips for capturing the attention of admissions committees, structuring your essays effectively, and showcasing your authentic voice. Whether you are just starting your application or looking to refine your existing essays, this workshop will equip you with the tools and techniques necessary to make your application shine.

Columbia Business School: Resume Checklist

A checklist to ensure your resume meets the bar for Columbia Business School.

MBA Application Sprint (September 30-October 2) Kickoff

Join us for the kickoff panel of Leland’s MBA Application Sprint (September 30–October 2)! In this opening session, top Leland coaches and former MBA admissions officers Claire R., Bill C., Faisal K., and Karla M. will discuss what it takes to put together a standout MBA application. ​They’ll cover key components of a successful application—from shaping your essays and tightening your resume, to interview prep and building a cohesive story. You’ll walk away with actionable strategies and a clear sense of how to spend the weeks ahead so you can approach deadlines with confidence.

International Applicants & the MBA Admissions Process: Keys to Success

This session is designed to support international candidates applying to top MBA programs in the U.S., Europe, Asia, and beyond. It will also provide valuable insights for Americans targeting programs overseas. Jesse, a leading MBA admissions coach with deep experience guiding international applicants, will cover the unique challenges global candidates face, share strategies for differentiation, debunk common myths, and offer practical advice to strengthen your candidacy. ​Jesse has 8+ years of experience running a boutique MBA consultancy with his wife, specializing in coaching international applicants and guiding 100+ admits to Global Top 20 programs, such as all M7, London Business School, INSEAD, IESE, IE Business School, and HEC Paris. His insights are also shaped by 15+ years of living and working abroad in 12 countries and his strong track record of success with candidates from diverse backgrounds.

Is a U.S. Degree Still Worth It? Hear from Recent F-1 Grads & BigTech Hiring Managers

​With a turbulent U.S. political climate, difficult economic conditions, and the rise of global multipolarity, many applicants are asking: Is a U.S. degree still worth it? ​Recent U.S. visa policy updates have added new layers of complexity to the decision, leaving international students and early-career professionals weighing the risks and rewards of moving to the US more carefully than ever. ​In this panel moderated by Soundarya (Author of Unshackled, O-1 recipient, Columbia MS'19), you’ll hear from Angela C. (recent O-1 recipient, Stanford MIP '23), David H. (Former Recruiter @ Meta, Intuit & A16Z), and Madhuri M. (recent green card recipient, former Product Hiring Manager @ Adobe) who have hired, coached, and worked with with dozens of international applicants. They’ll share candid perspectives on how U.S. employers view international candidates, what still pays off, what may be shifting, and how to think about long-term career security in light of today’s environment. ​You’ll leave with a grounded understanding of both the opportunities and the risks of studying in order to work in the U.S., so you can make an informed decision about whether pursuing a U.S. degree aligns with your future goals.

Score Your Shot - M7 MBA Candidate Profile Evaluation

Evaluate your M7 MBA competitiveness with this comprehensive scoring rubric. Discover your true standing across 6 dimensions.

GRE Arithmetic - Percent Bakery Question

This is a review for how to structure and solve a percent change question for the GRE.

How to Create a Winning DMBA Resume

The resume is one of the most important elements of your Deferred MBA application. Besides being the basis of your entire application, it's also where you get to sell the Admissions Committee on your story, and prove to them why they should take a chance on you. In this event, we'll review the various components of the resume and discuss how to mine your background and experience to make you stand out!

CBS MBA Example Essays

CBS MBS successful example essays. Asian Male, low GPA.

LBS Example Essays - Admitted Candidate

LBS (London Business School) Example Essays - Admitted Candidate

MBA Recommendation Letter Example

MBA Recommendation Letter Example

HBS MBA Example Successful Essays

HBS MBA Example Successful Essays. Asian Male - Consulting.

Writing a Holistic Set of Kellogg Essays (Deck)

Many applicants find a way to write at least one strong essay. But those that really maximize the essay-writing process find a way to make clear how their experiences inform their goals, and develop clear narrative through-lines that make their contributions to the school and program tangible. They have a “brand”. You know what they’re all about. This event will draw from example essays written by successful Northwestern Kellogg admits. These essays were particularly strong in how they spoke to one another—how they created a three-dimensional applicant who top Kellogg AdComs could envision contributing to their community. Their professional and judiciously placed personal experience offer evidence for why they’re the kind of person who will make their specific kind of difference in the world. During this session, we'll analyze these essays alongside you so you have a clear view into how you can apply what you've learned to your own writing, and put your best application forward for Kellogg's top-flight MBA program.

Build Your Personal Brand: Craft Your Story & Stand

A practical workbook that helps professionals define and confidently communicate their personal brand during a career transition.

The Resume That Lands You at Harvard Business School

A deep dive into a successful Harvard Business School resume. Learn how to highlight your experience and skills to get noticed by admissions committees.

Standout Strengths: Crafting Your MBA Story

Crafting a standout MBA application starts with understanding where you truly shine. In this session, you’ll learn how to identify the strengths that drive your contributions and unique leadership style—and how to communicate them with clarity and authenticity.

Recommender Prep Doc: Secure a Powerful LOR

A complete guide to preparing your recommenders. Learn how to provide them with the information they need to write a powerful letter of recommendation.