Leland+ for MBA
Popular on Leland+
Stanford MBA Essay - "What Matters Most to You and Why?"
Read an example essay for the Stanford Graduate School of Business focused on helping emerging markets grow.
Example INSEAD MBA Essay
Essay for INSEAD (waitlisted based on GMAT)
Networking Follow-Up Strategies
The following tool is designed to offer ideas on how to follow-up with networking contacts after initial conversation to maintain relationship.
CV that Worked for Stanford GSB
CV I submitted as part of my application for Stanford GSB MSx Program
Getting into Stanford GSB
Are you aiming to secure a spot in a top MBA program? Join me, Sydney, for an insightful session on how to navigate the MBA application process and stand out among a competitive pool of applicants. As a recent MBA graduate from Stanford's Graduate School of Business and a former MBA Student Admissions Ambassador, I am passionate about guiding prospective students through this journey. During this event, we'll cover essential topics such as general exploration, essays, application strategy, recommendations, and networking strategy. Whether you're considering applying in round 2 or looking for an extra push for round 1, this session is tailored for you. Let's work together to present your authentic story and find your passion through business.
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.
Beyond the Basics: AI Resume Strategies That Land Interviews
This 45-minute session will show you how to use AI to transform your resume from a basic document into one that gets noticed, going far beyond keyword swaps or generic AI tools. We’ll work through examples, with guided opportunities for you to apply each technique to your own resume. We’ll cover: *The difference between generic prompts and role-specific, detailed prompts — and how to craft your own live in the session *Turning a career history or messy notes into a polished, professional draft you can use immediately *Rewriting bullet points to emphasize impact, metrics, and action verbs recruiters can’t miss *Condensing overly long sections without losing substance so your most important wins stand out
Knight-Hennessy Individual Interview Prep Guide
Sample Questions and Guideline of Knight-Hennessy Finalist Interview
How to Secure Top Graduate Fellowships: Rhodes, Truman, Knight-Hennessy & More!
Curious about how to earn prestigious fellowships like Rhodes, Marshall, Schwarzman, Knight-Hennessy, and others? In this session, coaches Machmud M. and Claire R.—both Knight-Hennessy Scholars themselves—will share what it takes to stand out in highly competitive selection processes. You’ll learn how to craft a compelling personal narrative, choose and prepare strong recommenders, approach essay prompts, and succeed in interviews, all while highlighting leadership, impact, and academic excellence. Whether you’re exploring opportunities for graduate study abroad, pursuing a master’s in the U.S., or looking to expand your academic and professional horizons, this session will give you clear strategies and practical tools to strengthen your application. With proven frameworks and insights from past awardees, you’ll walk away ready to approach fellowship applications with confidence.
Comprehensive Guide to Letters of Recommendation
Letters of recommendation can make or break a graduate school application—but too often, applicants underestimate their importance or don’t know how to manage the process strategically. In this session, we’ll cover everything you need to know: whom to ask, when to ask, how to prepare your recommenders, and how to ensure your letters complement and strengthen the rest of your application. You’ll also learn how to approach potential recommenders with confidence, provide the right context and materials, and avoid common pitfalls. With clear guidance from Jennifer P., a Harvard master’s graduate and experienced coach, you’ll walk away with a roadmap to securing strong, authentic recommendations that highlight your strengths and align with your overall story.
ClearAdmit x Leland: Nail Your MBA Interviews
The MBA interview is one of the most important steps in the admissions process—your chance to move beyond the application and show schools who you really are. In this session, expert coaches Faisal K. (Admissions @ Chicago Booth), Charlotte W. (Stanford GSB), and Abdi S. (Harvard Business School) explain what top programs are evaluating, how to approach common interview formats, and strategies to highlight your unique story with confidence and clarity. We’ll also cover proven techniques to structure your answers, demonstrate leadership and impact, and avoid the common mistakes that hold applicants back. Whether you’re preparing for your very first interview or fine-tuning your final rounds, this session will give you the insights and preparation tools you need to stand out.
Strategies for Crushing the New HBS Essays
The Harvard Business School essays have changed—and so has the strategy you’ll need to stand out. In this workshop, Leland coach Andy P. will walk you through proven approaches for tackling the new prompts with clarity and impact. You’ll learn how to identify the stories that best showcase your leadership, values, and potential, while avoiding common pitfalls that weaken otherwise strong applications. Andy will also share practical tips for structuring your essays, weaving a cohesive narrative across your application, and highlighting the qualities HBS is really looking for. Whether you’re just getting started or refining a draft, this session will equip you with actionable strategies to make your essays rise to the top.
A Peek Behind the Curtain: How Your Application is Really Evaluated at Top Business Schools
Have you ever wondered what happens once you hit submit? Join this one-of-a-kind event to learn what really goes on behind the scenes from two coaches who have seen it all. Christine B.'s 25+ year admissions career has included as an Admissions Director for The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, London Business School and Yale School of Management. Faisal K. has been an MBA coach for 15+ years, and worked with Christine as an admissions committee member at the Chicago Booth. This fireside chat between Faisal and Christine will explore how an application is assessed, decisions are made to interview and admit, and offer tips on how to put your best foot forward at the world’s most selective business schools.
Why Round 2 Could Be the Smart Move for Your MBA Application
An overview of why you might consider round 2 as the potential sweet spot for MBA admissions
GRE Algebra - Quantitative Comparison
In this review a coach walks through an example of a GRE quantitative comparison question involving systems.
Standing Out as an International Applicant
This session will be focused on helping international applicants develop a high-level understanding of all the components of the MBA application process, learn how to differentiate themselves from the crowd, and start to create a standout profile to get them into a top business school. With more non-US candidates applying every year, it’s more important than ever to show what makes you unique. Learn from a panel of experts who will share their expertise and experiences through an interactive discussion, practical tips, and real-life examples. We invite potential applicants from all corners of the globe to join us for this amazing event! Meet our panelists: Vica G., Stanford GSB MBA, former Silicon Valley tech executive and startup founder, double émigrée and storytelling expert passionate for helping international or underdog clients craft competitive applications. Jesse L., has coached 100% of full-service clients to top 30 MBAs, 95% to top 20, expert in international applicants and crafting compelling narratives. Cathy M, INSEAD MBA, has successfully coached candidates to gain admissions into top schools, including INSEAD, LBS, Booth, Wharton, HEC Paris, IESE, Cambridge Judge, Oxford Said & NYU Stern.
Financing Your MBA
In this 1-hour webinar, Juno co-founder and HBS alum, Nikhil Agarwal, shares several tips and tricks for mastering personal finances during your MBA school matriculation, including your options regarding federal and private student loans, how to compare your options the smart way, tax strategies, investment tips, and more.
What’s Next? Your MBA Journey, Powered by Leland
Whether you're planning to apply to business school this cycle or considering a future application, this final MBA Week session will help you get clear on your timeline, required materials, and next steps. We’ll break down the two key types of applicants—those targeting Round 1 deadlines this fall, and those planning ahead for next year—and what each group should be doing now to stay on track. From building your school list to prepping for the GMAT/GRE, writing your essays, or securing letters of recommendation, we’ll map out your path to success. You’ll also hear from the Leland team about the best resources available to support you, whether you’re ready to dive in or just starting to explore. We’ll share how our 1:1 coaching, bootcamps, essay reviews, and course content libraries align with where you are in your journey. Let’s wrap up MBA Week by setting you up for what’s next with confidence and a clear plan.
The Three Biggest Secrets of the GMAT: Scoring Algorithm & Test Strategy
Learn how to ace the GMAT with these tips and tricks.
Applying and Succeeding as a Diverse MBA Candidate
Designed specifically for individuals from diverse backgrounds, this event aims to provide valuable insights, strategies, and resources to empower aspiring MBA candidates to thrive in the application process and beyond. Through an interactive presentation, practical tips, and inspiring stories, we will explore the unique strengths and perspectives that diverse applicants bring to the MBA landscape. By the end of this session, you will understand how to showcase your background in a way that is compelling to the AdCom and highlights what you, specifically, bring to the table. Meet our panelists: Amanda I., Stanford GSB, with professional experience at Google and Peloton! She's passionate about helping clients tell their story with clarity and confidence. Karla M., Harvard MPP and Booth MBA, and J.P. Morgan professional, with 10 years of coaching experience and a track record of helping clients secure top MBA admits with substantial scholarships. Lucas S., Harvard MBA and MPP, consultant at the Bridgespan group & former Transportation and Infrastructure Director for the U.S. House of Representatives.
