Leland+ for MBA
Popular on Leland+
Waitlist Strategy
Updates, new achievements, school engagement
Pre-Departure Preparation
Visa, housing, networking, CPT prep
AdCom Insider Tip #5
What Admitted Applicants All Have in Common
Course Conclusion
What You've Learn and What's Next
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.
Build a Cohesive Narrative
Understanding The Importance of Each Element In Your Application
School Research Strategy
Culture matching, curriculum, recruiting strengths
Essay Strategy
“Why MBA,” goals essays, school vision essays
Letters of Recommendation
Who to choose globally, coaching recommenders ethically
AdCom Insider Tip #4
Position Yourself on LinkedIn Like a Future MBA, Not Just Your Current Job Title
Application Packaging
Story consistency across essays, résumé, interviews
Master the Interview
Tips and Pitfalls to Avoid
Behavioral Interview
STAR strategy + international context examples
School-Specific Interviews
HBS, Wharton TBD, MIT behavioral, Kellogg/team-based
Career Story & Post-MBA Goals
Structuring a compelling international career narrative
Extracurricular Strategy
Volunteering, professional associations, passion projects
Addressing Weak Spots
GPA conversion, school prestige gaps, job title confusion
Résumé for U.S. MBA Applications
One-page rules, U.S. formatting, action verbs, metrics
How to navigate the waitlist with confidence!
This document outlines the most common reasons for a waitlist, best practices for how to navigate it, and next steps.
Consulting-to-MBA: Stand out as a "Traditional" Candidate
Consultants make up one of the largest applicant pools to top MBA programs—which means standing out is more important than ever. In this panel, Leland coaches Andy P. (Top MBA coach for 20 years), Karla M. (150+ M7 Admits, prior consultant, Harvard/Booth dual degree grad), and Ben L. (300+ M7 Admits, prior consultant, GSB grad) will share how to craft an authentic, differentiated story that sets you apart from thousands of other applicants with similar backgrounds. You’ll learn how to translate your consulting experience into powerful application essays, recommendations, and interviews that highlight your leadership, impact, and future goals. Whether you’re a current analyst, associate, or engagement manager preparing for a future cycle, this session will give you actionable strategies to turn a “traditional” background into a standout advantage.
