personal statement for mba

An MBA admission essay is a statement of your purpose for pursuing a graduate degree in business. Oftentimes, knowing what drives you is one thing; writing about it is another. The following are some tips to guide you in choosing the topics to cover and make your essay work:

Admission essay topics worth discussing

The length of the essay depends on what the business school of your choice prescribes. Most business schools also specify questions that you need to answer. However, there are certain areas that admission boards are generally interested in, such as your specialty choice, fitness for the program, and explanation for any discrepancy in your academic records. When discussing your motivations, it is important to share how you think the program will contribute to your personal and professional growth. Discuss the role the degree will play as you plan your own contribution to your organization or community. Write about your guiding philosophy and make sure that it reflects a resilient attitude. It tells the board just how determined you are to complete the program if given the chance. Your essay should indicate the clarity of your career objectives, so cite significant involvement in activities and events related to the program.

Tips in effective discussing your topic when statement writing

Before writing your personal statement, do an in-depth self-assessment and focus on addressing areas that your grades and GMAT scores cannot speak for. The components of a well-written MBA application essay typically tell readers about your immediate and long-term goals and provide insightful answers to the question: Why this particular MBA program? A good approach to writing your MBA personal statement is to talk about socially relevant events in the business or financial world, which had personally impacted you most. Walk the reader through your experience and relate your realizations to the objectives of the MBA program.

Writing an MBA admission essay is not as easy as we think, especially when you consider how competitive the selection process is. The best way to make your essay work is to choose your topics well and show how the program matches your goals.

Related questions:

1. What content does the admission board particularly look for?

2. What are the different ways you can discuss your motivations?

3. How can your essay show that you are a good fit for the MBA program?

Obtaining an MBA from a reputable university is indeed a feather in one’s cap, as getting past the selection process is already a feat in itself. While admission requirements vary from one MBA program to another, they do have one thing in common: the application essay. Here are essay writing tips that can help you get past this challenge:

What an application essay should include

While MBA school application essays are not the be-all and end-all of the admission requirements, they can make you stand out amidst equally competent candidates. There are several ways to make optimal use of your essay. One of them is to ensure that your essay shows how you make a good fit for your preferred MBA program. Business schools may suggest various approaches for the essay, but there are key elements they are looking for: motivation, integrity, and competence. Tell the admissions board what has influenced your decision to pursue an MBA and make sure that you are able to explain why. Highlight personal traits that reflect your outstanding work ethics and consistency to your purpose. Professionalism is an important attribute in graduate school, so discuss relevant events in your life when your knowledge and skills have been put to the test, making sure that you describe how well you have handled these challenges. In addition, write about activities showing your leadership potential.

Other essay writing tips when creating the outline or structure

Regardless of the word or page count required, a good essay should contain insightful answers to questions commonly asked by business schools. Therefore, it is important to be articulate and concise. Oftentimes, the problem lies not so much in the candidate’s inability to come up with ideas but in his or her failure to put them together well. To have a well-written and solid essay, give yourself ample time for contemplation before hurrying on to the writing part. Prioritize ideas that bridge gaps in your resume and transcript. Arrange the essential items accordingly and stick to a framework that gives your essay a logical and natural flow.

Although application essays may vary in format, they should contain the elements that the admissions board wants to find. Be brief but rational. Thinking of yourself as the reader, review your outline for any missing links and supply the right connections.

Related questions:

1. How can you make your application essay stand out from the rest?

2. What are the key elements that shouldn’t be missing in your essay?

3. What should you do to make your essay coherent?

Writing MBA personal admission essays may seem like an easy task. However, ensuring coherence is a different story. Here are some tips to help you organize your essay effectively:

MBA school admission essay tips when creating an outline

Universities often prescribe different formats and word/page counts for candidates to adhere to, but there are key elements that they expect to find in your essay. Allotting plenty of time for reflection at the pre-writing stage is important. A framework is the backbone that holds everything together. To construct a cohesive outline, there are two steps for drawing ideas to the surface: listing and freewriting. Both require that you write down ideas as they come. These techniques keep you from editing and critiquing your essay prematurely. Listing simply involves phrases or topics that you can associate with your subject, which, in this case, is your reason for pursuing an MBA. Freewriting allows you to string these topics together into a paragraph, without being too conscious about grammar, punctuation, and structure. Once you’re done, you may weed out ideas that seem out of place. You can then make an outline to arrange your ideas into one smooth-flowing and solid essay.

Reading sample MBA school application essays to help you organize your thoughts

Effective application essays provide answers to why questions. If you are having trouble approaching the subject, find sample essays written by successful candidates. There are plenty of them on the Internet, particularly on university websites. Since these essays have worked, they can help you determine which elements to include in yours. However, do not copy an essay sample, substituting its details with your own. This is an issue of integrity, which can put your application at risk, especially since the admission board has ways of telling if it is really your work.

MBA personal statements are not to be taken lightly, for they can make or break your chances of getting accepted. A great application essay is organized and contains key elements. Give ample time to reflect on your ideas before writing. Sample MBA admission essays can help you through the process, but use them only as a guide.

Related questions:

1. What is the main characteristic of a well-written essay?

2. In what ways can you come up with ideas for a more organized application essay?

3. How can sample MBA school admission essays be useful?

The Swat Analysis is a blog about an MBA student who talks about experiences in MBA school and during the application process, and thoughts about business management education in general. The blog posts are categorized into three: Blog, Life, and MBA.

What makes this blog unique

Some of the things that make this blog stand out is its casual tone. And because of this tone, the readers can easily relate to the topics discussed in each post. The SWAT Analysis blog has a youthful touch, making it the perfect resource for young MBA students who want to get tips from someone who has experienced going through MBA school. The journal-like writing style used in this blog makes everything easy to read.

As for the content, the post that I really liked is the one about the MBA application process. In this entry, the writer shares some tips regarding the application process and how to deal with interviews, how to come up with an admission essay, and how to prepare for the GMAT. Aspiring business school students will definitely benefit from the tips posted on this blog.

Areas for improvement

I think that this blog needs more entries or posts. The more relevant content a blog has, the more it becomes useful to the target audience, which, in this case, is comprised of business school students or those who are interested in pursuing a business degree. As for the layout, a bigger font would make the posts more readable, especially since the background is all black. Also, other blogs have email links aside from the usual “Leave a Comment” button to have a more interactive blog. I think adding an email feature would definitely make this blog more useful and reader-friendly. An “about me” section can also make this blog more credible, as readers will have a way of knowing who the writer is through an “about me” link.

The Robert Salomon blog knowledgeably talks about very significant matters related to business and the economy. It basically talks about the recent trend in setting up a transactional activity within the company, especially the deal makings for mergers and acquisitions of even the biggest companies worldwide. The blog caters to business students and business opinion-makers who want to share information and open discussions about the current business trends in the society. The writer Robert Salomon has so many extremely interesting topics that a reader would definitely look forward to at all times.

What makes this blog unique

I particularly liked the Deal Making Activity entry wherein Robert Salomon extensively shares Michael de la Merced?s knowledge ad expertise on merger activities which are expected to take a full swing.

What makes this blog unique for me is the way the writer introduced to the readers his interest for writing about something that he was not able to do. And eventually, following it up with an article to supply all the information a reader needs to know about the topic successfully grabs the reader?s interest.

I really like the content of each entry, especially the one from Michael de la Merced. It gives readers like me an updated perspective about our business and economy. One more unique thing I really like about the blog posts is the way Robert Salomon knowledgeably and extensively discusses business-stimulating ideas.

Areas for improvement

To make the site more interactive, an option to tweet the articles is a good idea. This is especially useful for MBA grads who want to know the latest trends and updates in the job market. It’s also better if various forms of media are further maximized, such as the use of pictures. Pictures or illustrations can definitely make the posts more attention-grabbing.

The Mission MBA blog talks to business students and future business leaders of our society about different subjects related to business management education. Topics discussed include entries on business school closing ceremonies, preparation techniques when taking very serious exams, and getting a VISA for pursuing a field of interest in another country. Really, an avid reader will always find the time to read creatively written posts in this blog.

What makes this blog unique

The best part I really like is the post about the Tips for Preparing for GMAT wherein it unselfishly divulges all the possible tips when dealing with GMAT questions, something a reader pursuing business education will have to face.

Giving tips for continuing business education may not be something unique among blogs. But it is definitely a favorite of business students who are more than open to experiences shared by their seniors who have been there before them.

Incorporating a video clip in one of your blogs may not be a very unique thing a blogger would do; however, it is also not so common to find blogs presenting a video clipping altogether. On the plain side of things, I would also like to think that it is the color texture of the blog site that what makes it unique. Though I do not have the passion for really dark backgrounds, at least, it caught my attention. And reading on, I got myself glued with the so many interesting featured blog posts.

Areas for improvement

Improvements on the navigation system are what I can suggest. This may be done by improving the category details in the site. Another suggestion for improvement is it would be easier for the readers if the links are just one click away, in order for the links to be easily followed or bookmarked.

The first thing I noticed while reading the entries on the MBA In the USA blog is the diversity in terms of article content. Other MBA blogs have substantial entries but the element of diversity is oftentimes disregarded. The entries in this blog directly confer the various interests and passions of a business student. It talks about a variety of topics — from the value of taking an MBA course to the top MBA programs for the Hispanic students: from actual marketing examples and practices to a simple blog about how future CEOs incorporate the word ?sports? in their field. This only shows that a site will be very effective if it offers assorted topics of interest for the readers, particularly the business students. My favorite post among the several entries is the one on MBA value proposition, wherein they elaborate on the many advantages of women taking the MBA, not to mention conferring about learning the real values of pursuing a business education at these times of economic crisis.

What makes this blog unique

I really like the kind of assortment that the site gives to its readers. It can casually jump from one business topic to another business topic without making it too obvious. The presentation of blogs is uniquely distinct as compared to what a majority of online blogs offer to its readers. The graphic illustrations are also better than other blogs in that the illustrations appear somewhat livelier. The blog can directly talk to the readers by making its entries so casually interesting and yet instructive and so laid-back.

Areas for Improvement

If there is one thing that will improve the quality of these blogs, it is perhaps the navigation system. In other blogs, it is handy to just click on some buttons to be able to get to a post that interests you. I think with this site, the navigating system is a little bit limited. Overall though, I like the blog posts on this site.

There are a lot of top MBA schools out there just waiting for the best to enter their program. If you want to be one of the chosen ones, making a big impression is a must. Your MBA essay can be of great help. It?s true that schools do not rely entirely on your MBA essay, still, it?s a big plus to show them what you?ve got through your personal statement. These MBA essays give you a chance too to explain your low grades, for instance, and could become an asset for you. Choosing the details you include in your MBA essay should be done discretely to make a big impact on the admissions panel.

Field experience

Using your experiences in the field can make a big difference in your MBA essay. One experience you can use is your travel experience. You should not just write those travels you had, but those that made a big impact on your career. You must also stick to the essay topic and focus on your goals. Tell them about your broad experience and your specialization. This could show them that you have a clear insight of your future, erasing any doubt that you?re just going to waste their time and resources on you.

How you can support your education

With the worldwide economic crisis we have right now, financial issues are typical if you want to go into MBA. So how do you maintain a stable financial support? One helpful tip would be to apply for scholarships. All you need is your self-determination to prove to them that you deserve the scholarship. Another source of funding could be a part-time or full time job in your field of specialty. This will ensure that you have a stable income and additional experience while you?re at it. It will be of great help if you can have the company you are working for finance your studies. In return, you can help that company rise and be successful.

Why you choose it over other programs

This is a question most schools would ask their applicants. You can easily answer this question by knowing the school by heart. Know the school background and their history on the kind of candidates they accept. Make sure you list all the school?s requirements. Make your MBA essay specific for the school you chose. Always remember to proofread your essay and don?t make the essay too long–just make your point and complete the essay.

Related links:

Travel Experiences – ? Unique topics for MBA essays
MBA Personal Statement – How to write a winning MBA personal statement
Discussing Business Specialty ? Shows your clear view in MBA Essays
Responding to Criticism – Important aspect in evaluating applicants
Writing MBA Essays – On identifying what details to add in your MBA essay

A well-written essay has a great and well-developed thesis. The thesis is very important because a good one can guide you in writing an exceptional piece. It could also serve as a unifying factor for all your ideas. This is why before you start writing your MBA admission essay, you have to formulate an excellent thesis statement. This will be the basis of discussions on your personal statement and will serve as the heart of the essay.

Know the purpose of your writing

One of the steps in formulating the thesis statement is by identifying first the purpose of your writing. What do you want to do with your MBA personal statement? Do you want to convince the admissions officers by talking about your qualities? Do you want to impress them by stating your experiences? Before you start writing your personal statement MBA , make sure that you have a goal in mind.

Be clear with your direction

What’s your goal in writing? Where are you heading to? These are some questions you need to answer before writing your personal statement for MBA school. Make sure that you are clear with your directions in life and your career. In this way, you won’t have difficulties formulating a thesis for your MBA admission essay.

Let your thesis statement set the direction for the sub topics

To be able to write a coherent essay, you have to choose your ideas well. You can use the thesis statement you formulated in choosing your sub-topics and the ideas to be included on your essay, so you would not veer away from your main idea.

An excellent thesis is one of the secret recipes of a good personal statement for MBA. This is why you really have to put effort into it and plan your writing well.

Related links:

MBA Essay Topics – Tips and advice on writing MBA essays
Business Speciality – Discussing a business specialty in the essay
Successful MBA Essays – Help on writing a winning MBA personal statement
Admission Essay Questions – Guide to admissions essay questions for MBA application
Personal Statement Tips – More personal statement tips and advice

A good sample of MBA personal statement is one that exhibits the elements of unity and coherence. The ideas are organized, and the supporting details are closely related to the main topic or theme. This type of essay is what you need to boost your chances for success in MBA school admission. Below are some tips on how to keep your essay organized and focused on your topic.

Keep the real questions in mind

If the school you are applying to gives specific questions for you to answer, you have to keep these in mind when writing your personal statement. You have to focus on these questions and make them your guide in weaving ideas. Each of them should be addressed in the essay to fulfill the requirements of your MBA application.

Veer away from meaningless prose and vague expressions

An ideal personal statement is concise but still persuasive. This is because excellent MBA essays
do not contain meaningless prose and vague expressions on them. In order to write an excellent essay, you have to be concise and straightforward in explaining your points. You should not coat your ideas with meaningless prose and vague phrases. Remember, your main goal is to write a concise and clear essay that won’t mislead your readers or leave a bad impression.

Delete irrelevant details

It is understandable that you can come up with too many brilliant ideas for your essay. However, the pages for the essay are limited. Because of this, you only have to choose ideas or topics that are relevant to the field you are applying to. If you deem some experiences and ideas irrelevant, don’t hesitate to delete them from your essay.

These tips will help you create an MBA admission essay that’s clear, concise, and persuasive enough to ensure your success in MBA school application.

Related links:

Essay Topics – - Using travel experiences as topic for the essay
Essay Writing Tricks – How to write effective MBA admission essays
Essay Writing Preparation – Preparing for writing an MBA personal statement
MBA Personal Statement – All about writing an MBA personal statement
Good Personal Statements – On how to write a good personal statement