In this Extracurricular tips series for MBA Applications, I will cover 3 Impactful Education related narratives that worked for top MBA programs:
1) Funding Underfunded Non-profits
This is the biggest challenge that most non-profits serving the education industry face. The government in that country is highly corrupt, and the fund earmarked for educating children of underprivileged communities never reach the intended beneficiary. One way the funding gap is mitigated is through FinTech and Mobile Payment Apps that allow tracking and dispersal of funds. With a network of trusted book suppliers, the process is designed to minimize the wastage of funds.
Applicants are either part of developing the technology ecosystem or building a network of trusted partners, or consulting for non-profits in streamlining the operations. All three narratives work when explaining how you filled the gap.
2) Working on Policy Side
If you are applying to a Policy related Dual Degree MBA program, you must cite one example of how your involvement as a subject matter expert or a collaborator in a government committee helped pass a law or changed a regulatory mechanism, or allowed a new generation of social entrepreneurs to enter the field. There are narratives like working on blockchain that gave applicants insights into designing processes and policies applicable in other domains. Whatever knowledge or insights you would like to apply in another domain on the policy side is believable if your long-term goal is also in the same industry.
3) Extracurricular Related Education
Any example where you could educate underprivileged children on one skill set you have acquired, or a talent you possess is an excellent example for MBA application extracurricular narratives. For an applicant, the violence in the neighborhood was affecting her grades. An orchestra director who started an after-school music program changed her personal and academic trajectory. Like her mentor, she also started a non-profit for children who grew up in similar neighborhoods. Such examples are not limited to Music. It could be financial education, sports, public speaking, writing, admission application, standup comedy, or improv or stage performances.
Any example where the inspiration is from your personal encounter or journey is always believable.
