Writing A+ Essays for the 2023-24 Wharton Full-time MBA Application

Embarking on the path to a full-time MBA is a monumental step. It’s not only a journey of academic and professional growth, but also one of personal discovery. While standardized test scores and resumes provide a concrete framework for your application, the essays bring color and life to your story. Application essays give you the opportunity to converse with the admissions committee on a deeply personal level, setting the stage for your entire MBA experience. In this blog post, we'll delve into the intricacies of crafting compelling essays that not only meet but exceed Wharton's expectations.

Overview

Wharton requires two essays from its applicants, each with its unique focus:

Essay 1: How do you plan to use the Wharton MBA program to help you achieve your future professional goals? (500 words; Required)

Essay 2: Taking into consideration your background—personal, professional, and/or academic—how do you plan to make specific, meaningful contributions to the Wharton community? (400 words; Required)

Let's break down each essay, examining how they can complement each other while ensuring that you present a compelling narrative.

Essay 1: Charting Your Path Through Wharton

Start with Wharton

The Hook

Your essay should start with Wharton for a reason; you're essentially telling the admissions committee why their program is the missing puzzle piece in your professional journey. Grab their attention by specifically naming resources or aspects of Wharton that align with your aspirations. Whether it's a particular course, professor, or club, make it clear from the start that you’ve done your homework.

The Core

Dive deeper into how Wharton’s resources can be instrumental in your development. This is where you can name-drop courses that pique your interest or extracurriculars that you wish to lead or contribute to. But always tie these resources back to your goals and how they will propel you forward.

Finish with Professional Aspirations

Short-Term Goals

Transition smoothly from how Wharton can serve you to what you hope to accomplish immediately after graduation. Be specific. Whether you're venturing into entrepreneurship or climbing the corporate ladder, let them know.

Long-Term Goals

Round out the essay by painting a picture of your long-term goals. Again, be specific. Talk about the industry impact you want to make or the kind of leader you aim to be.

Full Circle

Close the essay by reiterating how Wharton is essential in equipping you to achieve these goals, creating a neat, full-circle narrative.

Essay 2: From Professional Experience to Wharton Contributions

Start with Professional Experiences

The Setup

Begin this essay by discussing key professional experiences that shaped your character, skills, and values. Choose examples that not only display your strengths but also reveal your character and values.

The Bridge

Now, build a bridge between your experiences and your future at Wharton. How have your professional experiences equipped you to contribute to the Wharton community? Perhaps your experiences in team leadership qualify you for a particular student organization. Maybe your background in tech offers a unique perspective for class discussions.

Finish with Wharton

The Plan

Elaborate on specific ways you aim to contribute at Wharton. Whether it's participating in a specific club, bringing unique insights into the classroom, or volunteering, be detailed.

The Summary

Sum up your essay by focusing on the symbiotic relationship you aim to have with Wharton. Speak about giving as much as receiving, emphasizing how your unique background will enrich the Wharton community while also benefiting from it.

The Complementary Essence

Make sure that both essays serve to complement each other. The first essay focuses on how Wharton will contribute to your professional growth, while the second dives into what you will bring to the Wharton community based on your background. Together, they should create a complete picture of who you are: a candidate who not only has a vision but also possesses the skills and background to contribute to and benefit from the Wharton experience.

Final Thoughts

Writing essays for MBA applications can be a deeply introspective process, offering you a rare moment of pause to consider your goals, motivations, and the unique contributions you bring to any community. Rather than viewing these essays as a hurdle, see them as a valuable aspect of your personal and professional development. The quality of your essays speaks not just to your suitability for the MBA program but also sets the tone for your future endeavors.

If the thought process behind these essays triggers further questions, or if you find yourself contemplating broader aspects of your MBA journey, know that these feelings are part of the holistic experience of applying to business school. And while these questions are integral to your individual journey, you never have to answer them alone.

For those who find value in our guidance and wish to delve deeper, M7 Admissions offers comprehensive consultation services tailored to your unique narrative and aspirations. We invite you to take advantage of our free initial consultation, a platform where we can discuss your specific needs and questions in a one-on-one setting.

Your path to Wharton is not just about ticking boxes; it's about building a meaningful narrative that rings true to who you are and who you aspire to be. The essays are but one chapter in a larger story—a story that you are the author of. Take ownership and write it well.