For re-applicants: Upon reflection, how has your thinking regarding your future, Chicago Booth, and/or getting an MBA changed since the time of your last application?
Sample One
I have made a renewed commitment to my pursuit of an MBA from Chicago Booth. Since applying last year, I have increased my responsibility at work, improved my GMAT score to demonstrate my academic ability, and taken on a leadership position within my church outreach program.
My GMAT score has improved to a 740, with a stronger quantitative score. Combined with my 3.6 GPA from University of Maine, I believe my academic promise is strong enough for me to achieve in the rigorous climate of Chicago Booth.
In my career as a management consultant with Bowdoin consulting, I have been promoted to Consultant, taking on a leadership position on a recent project to improve inventory processes for a high-end retailer.
Another advance in my candidacy is the active role I have played within my church’s community service organization. I have been involved for the last several years, but this year I decided to step up to organize our annual Christmas toy drive. This required coordination across the committee to produce publicity for the drive, appearing at several church social events to promote the cause, and leading a team of volunteers to collect and deliver the toys.
As I increased my involvement at work and church, I reflected upon my goals for an MBA, specifically from Chicago Booth. The rigor and flexibility of the Chicago academic program, as well as the program’s commitment to community is aligned with my goals. Chicago is the right place to take my career to the next level.
Sample Two
Last year when I applied to Chicago Booth, I believed I had the optimal amount of career experience in value investing to contribute to the Chicago classroom and to achieve my long-term career goal to run my own hedge fund. It was disappointing to receive a rejection letter from Chicago, my top choice, and I took the opportunity to reflect.
Another year as an analyst at my top tier firm allowed me to witness the market’s collapse. It was a moment that changed my life, as I saw our clients respond to the economic events with a variety of emotions. I realized that money is more than just a number; money has the power to change lives. As I saw friends confront lay offs, some more elegantly than others, I noticed that my own attitude had changed. I no longer saw the pursuit of profit as the noblest goal; I started to think about what I could do to use the power of money to improve the lives of those less fortunate.
In response to my change in perspective, I increased my involvement in Hearts and Hands, an organization that helps the homeless find permanent housing and jobs. I started a large annual fundraiser that has already brought in over $20K for the charity.
In addition to this new community service role, I have refined my career goals. I am now devoted to founding an investment fund that also seeks to benefit social enterprises. By focusing my fund on fully vetted charities, I can help those who seek to build value to also build a better world.