“As we review your application, what more would you like us to know as we consider your candidacy for the Harvard Business School MBA program?”
This ambiguous essay prompt can oftentimes strike terror in the hearts and minds of applicants.
Should I write about a professional accomplishment? Life journey? Passion for international travel? Volunteer work? Career goals?
The answer to all is yes— and no.
Great HBS essays should never simply rehash your resume or focus on what can be found in your LOR’s and short-answer goals prompt in the online application, but rather— tie these elements together while providing information that cannot be found elsewhere in your application packet.
As with all great admissions essays you want to provide the admissions committee with insight into you as a person and what kind of student/classmate you will make, and that your goals— while noble, are realistic, well thought-out, and reflect your strong character.
Don’t let the “no word limit” lull you into thinking the admission’s committee is dying to read you 1,500 word essay. If you can’t say it under a 1000 words (850 ideal), interest wanes.
