Before getting to each essay, let's understand why Ross is asking these questions. In the words of Soojin Kwon, ex-Managing Director of Full-time MBA Admissions and Program "The purpose of an application is to show us the many sides of who you are - academically, professionally, personally - so we can get a sense for how you’d fit into the Ross community. Essays are an opportunity to share information and insights about you that aren’t visible through a transcript, resume or rec letter. "
Now that we understand that your answers to these MBA essays will be used to evaluate how well you would fit into the Ross community, let's look at each question keeping in mind that it should highlight your strengths, achievements, experiences, and facets of your personality that will make you a strong MBA applicant.
Group 1
I want people to know that I:
What aspect of you- your thoughts, talents, achievements, or experiences you would like people to know? Do you excel at something? Or perhaps there is an element in your profile that makes you interesting, and unique, and helps you stand out? You can write about any of that.
But make sure whatever you decide to write about, has substance, strength, and power to impress the Ross MBA admissions team.
Since the prompt is about what you want "people" to know about you - your answer to this MBA essay should be written for a broader audience – people in general and not only the MBA admissions team.
I made a difference when I:
All business schools love students who can make a positive impact in their communities, organizations, and society.
For this MBA essay, you could talk about a professional achievement at your company or highlight a non-professional situation where you made an important difference.
Whatever situation and example you choose to highlight here, demonstrate that because of your presence, your actions, and your ideas, you made the world a better place.
I was aware that I am different when:
Ross, like most other top business schools, values diversity. The diversity here can be of thoughts, perspectives, experiences, attitudes - or anything else.
This can be a tricky question. If you decide to attempt this, we encourage that you introspect deeply and showcase your inner strengths while being mindful that you are being evaluated for MBA admission.
So, use this opportunity to talk about a unique, interesting, and important facet of your profile.
Group 2
I was humbled when:
The reason Ross is asking you this essay - is to evaluate your cultural fit with the Ross MBA program.
MBA applicants are often strong leaders and highly accomplished individuals. However, sometimes being strong might then make some people lose touch with their humility and humanity. Ross Michigan culture focuses strongly on collaboration and greatly values the trait of humility.
So, if you can answer this question in a self-reflective, authentic way - you'll win the hearts of the Ross admissions team.
And let's assure you - when/ if you meet your future MBA classmates at Ross (or any other top business school), you'll be impressed and humbled :)
I am out of my comfort zone when:
What makes you uncomfortable reveals your personality and values.
If you choose this prompt, a word of caution for you - make sure you choose an example that is not trivial and is reflective enough; avoid writing about something that could be easily misunderstood and might hurt your admission chances.
Since you don't have too many words to explain your thoughts, we suggest that you pick an example that is authentic and important while also simple enough to communicate in a few words
I was challenged when:
Ross changed the MBA question in the year 2022. Instead of “I find it challenging when people...,” they now want you to focus the answer on yourself and discuss your struggles.
You can also take this prompt positively and describe a situation where you were pushed beyond your boundaries and had to deliver on new expectations. This "challenge" story can be made into an achievement story!
What is your short-term career goal and why is this the right goal for you? (150 words)
Ross MBA admissions team has taken a new and very pragmatic approach this time.
Ross Michigan is a business school that seeks to admit smart and focused candidates who know what they want to achieve, but at the same time, it accepts the reality that one's plans might change during the MBA. And also, you can't really predict too much about your future, about long-term goals with much certainty, especially in this dynamic and fast-changing world.
So they simply ask you - what you want to do after your MBA and why are you fit for that.
For the 1st part of the question, we suggest that you stay focused and specifically mention the industry, function, and location for your post-MBA goal. Try including a few names of your target employers to convey sincerity and seriousness toward your goals.
For the 2nd part - you can focus on demonstrating your passion for your chosen field and the specific skills, and strengths gained from your past experiences that will enable you to reach this career goal. If there are additional aspects of why is this goal "right" for you, then include those as well!Give your best!
This section should only be used to convey information not addressed elsewhere in your application, for example, completion of supplemental coursework, employment gaps, academic issues, etc. Feel free to use bullet points where appropriate.
Please use this space judiciously.
If there are any shortcomings in your background, comment on them with intelligence, perspective, and credibility: giving vague excuses or blaming other people or circumstances for failures will be completely counter-productive. Explain the issue clearly and maintain a greater focus on the correction than the issue. Keep the essay concise and to the point.
Ross MBA application requires you to submit a one-page resume along with details about your employment and academics. The typical MBA resume format consists of employment, education, and extracurricular details. MBA resume tips
In your Ross application, you will be asked to provide two MBA letters of recommendation - from your current or previous supervisors. Like many top business schools in the US, Ross MBA application constitutes of letter of recommendation questions from the GMAC MBA letter of recommendation template. MBA LOR tips
As is the policy with most top business schools, Ross MBA interviews are conducted only by invitation. Students typically would receive an invite 4-6 weeks after submitting their MBA applications. MBA interview tips
