It is your first day of business school and people are selecting study groups. How would you describe the value you will bring to a study group?

Sample One

I would focus on my unique perspective of the technology market gained in the heart of innovation—Silicon Valley. I will be able to share the lessons learned in the school of hard knocks when a business associate and I tried to launch a small technology venture a year ago. I will share my perspective on doing business in Japan, China and Taiwan and my exposure to different cultures. In addition, I can offer a firsthand account of great technology ideas I have seen fail because the team behind them lacked a sound sales and marketing strategy and the mediocre technologies that have prospered because the management team was adept in these disciplines.

Sample Two

As part of Machine’s Skunk Works group, I have gained a great deal of experience in thinking critically and working under high-stress conditions. Beyond these typical engineering capabilities, I will bring some finance basics from my graduate coursework. On a more personal level, I am not only a very energetic person, but I am intellectually curious and enjoy helping others learn. Finally, I possess many traits that enable me to thrive in a team setting: I enjoy making others laugh, I am a considerate person, and from my leadership experience with Habitat for Humanity, I have become good at identifying and drawing upon the distinct strengths of those around me.