Leland+ for MBA

Deferred MBA M7 Series: Harvard

Join us for an insider-focused session on the Harvard Future Leaders deferred MBA program. Expert Leland coach and former HBS AdCom Geri T. will break down what makes HBS’s deferred pathway unique, how the admissions committee evaluates early-career candidates, and what “leadership potential” really looks like at this stage. You’ll learn how to position your experiences, craft a compelling narrative, and avoid the strategic mistakes most applicants make. Ideal for undergrads and master’s students aiming to build a standout HBS application from the ground up.

Deferred MBA M7 Series: Stanford

Get an inside look at what Stanford GSB seeks in Deferred MBA candidates and how to bring your unique story to life. Expert Leland coach and GSB alum Ben L. will break down the qualities Stanford cares about most—impact, curiosity, and personal growth. You’ll leave with concrete strategies to articulate your values, achievements, and ambitions in a way that resonates with the GSB admissions committee.

Finance to MBA: Showing Impact and Proving Passion

Breaking into an MBA program from a finance background takes more than strong credentials—it's about showing real impact and authentic passion. In this session, Leland coaches John N. (Kellogg MBA), Faisal K. (Booth adcom), and Kelsey K. (CBS adcom) will share how to differentiate yourself, connect your experience to your goals, and stand out in essays and interviews. Perfect for finance professionals aiming to make a powerful impression in Round 2.

Building Your Recommender Packets for Grad School

Crafting strong recommendation letters starts long before your recommender begins writing—and a well-built recommender packet can make all the difference. In this session, a top Leland coach and dual HBS / HKS admit Reagan C. will walk you through exactly what to include, how to organize it, and how to make your recommenders' jobs easier while ensuring they highlight your strongest qualities. You'll learn what admissions committees look for, how to frame your achievements effectively, and how to set your recommenders up to write letters that truly elevate your application.

LinkedIn Cribsheet

A targeted guide that helps experienced professionals rewrite their LinkedIn profiles to better reflect their value, momentum, and career direction.

Course Conclusion

What You've Learn and What's Next

AdCom Insider Tip #5

What Admitted Applicants All Have in Common

Timeline & Project Management

Managing multiple schools

Waitlist Strategy

Updates, new achievements, school engagement

Pre-Departure Preparation

Visa, housing, networking, CPT prep

Competency Questions

Leadership, failure, teamwork, ethics

Mock Interview Practice

Real simulation exercises

Finish Strong

What Happens After You Submit?

AdCom Insider Tip #4

Position Yourself on LinkedIn Like a Future MBA, Not Just Your Current Job Title

School-Specific Interviews

HBS, Wharton TBD, MIT behavioral, Kellogg/team-based

Communication Coaching

Accent confidence, tone, pacing

Letters of Recommendation

Who to choose globally, coaching recommenders ethically

LinkedIn & Online Presence

Strengthening credibility and recruiter alignment

Application Packaging

Story consistency across essays, résumé, interviews

Master the Interview

Tips and Pitfalls to Avoid