If this is the #1 quality MBA programs want, how are you showing it?
What do MBA Admissions Committees really want?Ask a group of MBA AdComs to name the number one quality they look for in candidates, and one word will rise to the top: Self-awareness. It’s no coincidence that the entire MBA application process is designed to test this very quality. After all, how else would you answer essays like the HBS one asking, "What experiences have shaped who you are, how you invest in others, and what kind of leader you want to become?" But this leads to an important question… What does self-awareness really mean?Self-awareness is more than just knowing your strengths and weaknesses. It’s about understanding who you are and how you’re perceived by others. It’s being in tune with your role in team successes, your contributions to your workplace, and how your values drive your actions - in both life and leadership. But here’s the catch... The surprising self-awareness gapHarvard Business School research found something eye-opening: while 95% of people think they’re self-aware, only about 10-15% actually are. That’s a pretty wide gap, isn’t it? No wonder in another study, 99% of respondents reported working with at least one annoying, un-self-aware colleague. Sound familiar? So, how do you make sure you’re part of that top 10-15% - the truly self-aware? Especially when you know that MBA programs are watching closely? How can YOU show the self-awareness MBA programs look for?It starts with frequent self-reflection. You have to take time to evaluate your actions, decisions, and the outcomes they create. This doesn’t mean endlessly questioning yourself but rather taking a moment to pause and process. Journaling is one powerful tool for this - it helps identify patterns in your behavior and emotions. But reflection alone isn’t enough. You also need perspective. From brainstorming to breakthroughs: A Round 1 candidate’s MBA essays approachWith Round 1 wrapping up, I had the pleasure of interviewing one of my MBA ABC participants about his essay writing journey. He opens up about the entire process - from the early stages of brainstorming to finalizing his essays - offering candid insights into the challenges, the pivotal role self-reflection played in shaping his strategy, and the value of being willing to start fresh when a story didn’t quite hit the mark. Curious about how he overcame the MBA essay writing challenges and refined his essays? Dive into the full interview for all the insights. Onwards and upwards, Petia |
My MBA Path
Today, I have both good news and bad news for you, MBA hopefuls. The good news is if you are applying in Round 2, you have four beautiful months ahead of you. Four months to build the strongest MBA application possible. Four months to become an MBA candidate who is competitive and stands out. The bad news? Unlike Round 1, where pushing your application to the next round is a safe bet, there’s no good back up option for Round 2. What’s the best time to kick off your Round 2 MBA applications?...
This last week, I had many conversations with candidates who are eager to submit in Round 1 even though their applications are gently whispering "I'm not ready".From weak test scores to weak answers to "What matters most to you and why?", their applications weren’t quite ready to make the strongest impression. It’s understandable to feel the pressure to apply early But unless you are fully confident this is the strongest possible MBA application you are capable of, please take a deep breath...
“This was incredibly helpful.” Yesterday, I heard that a lot. If you’ve ever worked with me, you’ve likely heard me preach: “We don’t praise our own work!” That’s what I say to candidates who try to sneak “I’ve worked tirelessly” or “My dedication and hard work have allowed me to…” into their essay. But “incredibly helpful” was literally used by Every.Single.Candidate who had a Get Unstuck session with me yesterday. So, I’m allowing myself to break my own rule. Now, the most important part is...