How to Answer Darden MBA Essay #1: "Tell us what you would want your learning team to know about you - personal, professional or both." (100 words)
1. Write about a life-threatening event and some interesting insights that experience gave you
For this example, I am citing my experience in 2015 when I survived a Viper bite. I am certain most of you don’t have that kind of dramatic experience. But reflect and find experiences that gave you a new perspective.
Sample Darden MBA Essay – About yourself Personal, Professional or Both (100 Words) (Near Death Experience)
During monsoon, it is customary for stray cats to raid homes and make the occupants their owners. In 2015, the foster cat yowled incessantly. I volunteered to take the extra shift for my pregnant wife and went to the backyard. After feeding the cat, as it was my habit, I put my foot on the table and saw two faint points marked on my left leg. Frightened by my footsteps, a baby viper fanged me. The 2-hour following the anti-venom injection was a moment of clarity. I developed a new philosophy – “Nothing matters more than your family and loved ones.”
2. Write about a trait that is not easily captured in the resume
Networking and finding opportunities (jobs, projects, and partnerships) when everyone is relaxing is a trait that will help you find unique opportunities during your job search in the Business School.
We had a client who received a job offer in a Bar while talking to the CEO of a Sports Marketing company. He was fanatical about Soccer – not just the game but the marketing, merchandise and even the strategies to retain the top players.
Sample Darden MBA Essay – About yourself Personal, Professional or Both (100 Words) (Networking and Job Offer at an Unlikely place)
In 2017, I met my friends at the Atheletico Bar to witness the Champions League final. A firm believer in Messi’s magic powers, I was rooting for Barcelona while the majority Patrons believed in Real Madrid. Near our booth, I heard someone yelling at the same players who I thought ...
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Full Sample Essay about an unlikely Job Offer With F1GMAT's Darden MBA Essay Guide
3. Write about adapting to a challenging terrain or an environment (as an extra-curricular activity or your professional experience)
For applicants with a lot of outdoor experience – trekking, whitewater rafting, mountaineering, skydiving and any form of sports that most people don’t enthusiastically volunteer, use this space to highlight your risk-taking capacity.
In this example, the applicant cites her experience climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Instead of writing one-dimensionally, she shares an honest feeling, “I hated every step, and my positive spirit turned into self-pity.” Essays need some redeeming quality at the end or a life lesson. It should not end abruptly. The applicant does that by sharing a mantra she used for remaining positive.
Sample Darden MBA Essay – About yourself Personal, Professional or Both (100 Words) (Mountaineering)
After preparing for 6 months through small hikes, I began my hike of Kilimanjaro - the largest peak in Africa. The enthusiastic and positive energy of the porters and Eminem's Lose Yourself can do the trick for the first three days. Day 4 is when ....
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