Leland+ for MBA

Ben L. (GSB Alum) Podcast Feature

Ben’s career has been anything but linear, from working at McKinsey helping prisons improve rehabilitation outcomes, to diving into politics, to supporting chess startups, his experiences are as diverse as they are fascinating. After struggling through the MBA application process himself, Ben became driven to help candidates craft powerful, authentic applications that truly reflect who they are. In this episode, Ben shares: How his varied career shaped his perspective on business school and beyond Why storytelling is the key to a standout MBA application How he helps candidates align their applications with their unique strengths and passions If you’re navigating the MBA application process, Ben’s insights will help you focus on what truly matters and make your story shine.

How U.S. MBA Admissions Work

Application components, holistic review, timelines (Round 1 vs Round 2), application portals

Visa Strategy

F-1 visa basics, OPT, STEM extension, sponsorship challenges, school support

Financial Aid for International Students

Scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, Prodigy/MPower loans, sponsorship options

U.S. vs International Admissions Differences

What U.S. schools value (leadership, impact, fit), expectations for career clarity

Tuition, Cost of Living, and ROI

Real budgets, affordability planning, Deferred Tuition education

Building the Foundations

Understanding The Process Before You Launch Your Journey

GMAT, GRE & English Tests

Test options, typical target scores by school tier, TOEFL vs IELTS vs Duolingo

Waitlist Strategy

Updates, new achievements, school engagement

Find Your MBA Fit

Considering an MBA but not quite sure which programs are the right fit? All these MBA options sound the same? Not even sure why you want an MBA yet? Should you apply to 2 schools, or 7? Been there. As a Stanford GSB Alum who's helped over 300 applicants land a coveted spot at top programs like GSB, HBS, Wharton, Kellogg and more, I'm throwing together this free 45-minute event to cover some criteria you can use to narrow your search. You'll come away with a clearer idea of how to pick the right schools for you so you can focus your time and energy. Space is limited, so RSVP now to secure your spot and take the first step not just towards applying, but applying to the right places.

Storytelling vs Reporting

Avoiding resume repetition, writing essays that resonate

Demonstrating Cultural Adaptability

Global perspective + U.S. fit

Telling Your Story

Build Your Own Personal Brand

Common Communication Mistakes

Over-formality, vague leadership claims, jargon

Translating Work Experience

Clarifying roles, context, business scale, quantifying impact

The "American Style" Application

Directness, reflection, vulnerability—all without oversharing

Career Story & Post-MBA Goals

Structuring a compelling international career narrative

AdCom Insider Tip #1

Why International Applicants Get Misread in the U.S. MBA Process

Leadership in Global Contexts

Influence vs title, cross-cultural teamwork, initiative

Finish Strong

What Happens After You Submit?