In the first example, we look at an MBA applicant who cites Viktor E Frankl's seminal work on suffering - Man's Search for Meaning. A psychiatrist, Viktor, offers a poignant narrative on surviving the concentration camps in Auschwitz, breaking down human being’s primal motivations when faced with a consistent threat to their safety. Through the suffering, he connects our desire to balance human dignity with survival, and the search for meaning.
Although most applicants would try to narrate an extremely personal event that caused trauma as a child, the applicant is using a routine professional experience - a bad boss as an example.
The Sample Essay demonstrates that you can convert any event to a meaningful narrative on suffering as long as you capture the context and subtly balance it with a positive outlook and values that helped you withstand the trying times.
The redemption arc in your narrative is crucial for the Columbia MBA Essay on favorite book, movie, or song.
Sample Columbia Favorite Book, Movie or Song Essay: Man’s Search for Meaning (Viktor E Frankl) (247 Words)
Coming from an Arts background, entering Investment Banking was an unusual career choice. I was curious to apply my creative thinking and sensitivity to cultures in allocating funds. Luckily, I had a mentor who gave me a solid foundation in interpreting data and leveraging AI tools while recognizing my strengths and weaknesses. As I was settling into an incredible work environment, the mentor switched jobs, and I began working for an acerbic boss. The goodwill was lacking, and ...
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