First Section: The applicant starts with an interesting experience of working with two contrasting experiences. One working for a CEO, who was bold and took on the competitors with zest, and the other who kept a low-profile but worked on the fundamentals and the strategic goals. The difference in outcome is cited as a motivation for leadership development.

Second Section: Stanford’s leadership courses, labs and the unique skills of recognizing intention is mentioned as vital for making deals.

For this Sample Essay, we use the profile example of a Design Engineer, who found application of his design skills in developing technology products of the future.

Why Stanford MBA: Career Switching (Industry and Function – Oil & Gas Operations to Consulting in Operations)

Why Stanford MBA - First Section

Q) Fuqua prides itself on cultivating a culture of engagement. Our students enjoy a wide range of student-led organizations that provide opportunities for leadership development and personal fulfillment, as well as an outlet for contributing to society. Our student-led government, clubs, centers, and events are an integral part of the student culture and are vital to providing you with a range of experiential learning and individual development experiences.

Approach: Pre-MBA career transition influencing post-MBA Goals

In the second example, we look at an applicant - a Venture Capital professional,  who was raised in a military family where the chain of commands, and “yes-no sir” were music to ears. The command over the room and body language play an equal role in the person’s family as the courage to sign up for combat. The exchange program to Kenya is the backdrop for this narrative. A quiet weekend with friends turns into one of the most memorable life events, breaking assumptions, and a chance to acquire a new value.

In the first example, we look at an applicant who had a debilitating fear of pathogens. His mother tried to change his perspective through operational knowledge of germs, bacteria, and virus. The presentation made the case worse. Camping - a uniquely American experience is used as the backdrop in narrating how the applicant overcame his hypochondriac tendencies and learned to apply a new mantra when the day to day challenges are overwhelming.