Leland+ for Traditional Full-Time MBA

MBA Essay Self-Discovery Workbook: Unlock Your Narrative & Write

This is a reflection-focused, 13-section workbook for MBA applicants to uncover and build your story before embarking on the complex, layered process of writing your essays. This resource is informed from my time in Stanford GSB's Interpersonal Dynamics (Touchy Feely), my time helping dozens of other GSB classmates find their voice as the Managing Editor for Stanford GSB's Paper (Nondisclosure), and in helping over 500 MBA applicants self-reflect in a way that feels genuine, personal and clarifying. I wrote this resource with just enough structure (but not too much), and with a practical eye towards covering the ground you'll need for your MBA apps. You'll go deep, but every question has a purpose. I also use this with everyone I work with, and it's something we'll cover at the very beginning of our process. My hope is that this resource, in addition to being a big help, feels like we're in conversation. The goal is just to get to know you a little better, one step at a time, in a way that feels natural, even enjoyable. Even if you're the only one who ever sees it, I've tried to write this in a way that I'd speak about this kind of thing with you. Because I think humans are the best way to help other humans see themselves a little deeper. And trust me, plenty of "coaches" could use more of that too ;) This workbook will cover your background, motivations, short and long-term goals, values, behavioral stories, and more. A PDF is attached here, but there's also a downloadable Word file I recommend using to make things much easier for you to fill out as you go. This took me about 20-30 hours of time to put together, and I suggest putting at least 5-10 into filling this out. Some go at it all at once, but most do it in a few sittings. Long walks are good to interperse between writing sessions, and I actually recommend you reflect and go back to this to update your answers several times throughout your MBA process. Save new versions as you go and you'll be able to see your application pixellate over this monthslong process. If you're reapplying, I'd push you to compare what you end up with here with what you submitted last time. The differences may be revealing. I hope ends up a real tool for you, and that it helps you find answers you might not have found otherwise. It also will give you a glimpse into what coaching together feels like. Don't hesitate to reach out if you feel like sharing this. Working on your writing and applications together is a natural byproduct of the kind of reflection you'll be doing here, and it's my favorite thing to help someone with. Happy writing :) -Ben

Harvard Essay 2 Example

Harvard Essay 2 example, female from a CPG start-up, accepted into the class of 2028.

Harvard Essay 1 Example

Harvard Essay 1 example of a female from a CPG start-up accepted into the class of 2028.

Chicago Booth Personal Essay – Outside the Office

A personal essay on improv comedy, community, and how life outside of work shaped my adaptability and perspective.

Duke Fuqua Post-MBA Career Goals Essay

Plans to pursue senior leadership in tech or consulting, with a long-term vision of transforming Korean companies.

INSEAD Short- and Long-Term Career Goals Essay

Plans for transitioning from Korea’s gaming industry to global digital platforms and building a founder-focused accelerator.

Duke Contributions to the Fuqua Community Essay

Plans to drive social impact at Fuqua through technology, non-profit support, and student-led consulting initiatives.

INSEAD Career Summary and Progression Essay

A reflection on key career decisions, leadership experiences, and global business impact.

INSEAD Personal and Leadership Reflection Essay

A candid overview of leadership strengths, weaknesses, and ongoing development in managing diverse, cross-functional teams.

INSEAD Career Overview and Key Decisions Essay

A summary of career progression, leadership experiences, and cross-cultural impact in global tech and enterprise roles.

INSEAD Managing High-Stakes Complexity Essay

A reflection on navigating a high-pressure, unprecedented project, balancing strategic vision with expert risk management.

European MBA Value Proposition

A European MBA can strategically reposition Korean professionals for accelerated global careers and long-term leadership potential.

Mistakes Koreans Make in MBA Applications

The very traits that make Korean professionals so exceptional (rigour, humility, diligence) can, without calibration, falter in Western admissions.

Essays (4): Duke Fuqua MBA Admitted Army Veteran

These are the 4 application essays of an Army veteran who secured R1 admission to Duke Fuqua MBA.

Essays (3): UCLA Anderson MBA Admitted R1

These are the 3 application essays of an applicant who secured R1 admission to UCLA Anderson full-time MBA.

Resume: Army Veteran Admitted to Duke Fuqua MBA

This resume showcases an Army veteran from a non-traditional background who earned R1 admission to Duke Fuqua MBA.

Essays (4): UVA Darden MBA Admitted R1 Class of 28

These are the 4 application essays of an applicant who secured R1 admission to UVA Darden full-time MBA.

Essays (2): Michigan Ross MBA Admitted R1 2025

These are the 2 application essays of an applicant who secured R1 admission to Michigan Ross full-time MBA.

Essays (2): Yale SOM MBA Admitted R1 Class of 2028

These are the 2 application essays of an applicant who secured R1 admission to Yale SOM full-time MBA.

Essays (2): UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA Admitted R1

These are the 3 application essays of an applicant who secured R1 admission to UNC Kenan-Flagler full-time MBA.