How to Tackle Columbia’s MBA Essays

At Columbia Business School (CBS), ranked 7th in P&Q’s ‘Top Business Schools’ ranking, being different matters.

While the B-school is traditionally known to be a top finance program, CBS is home to non-traditional, out-of-the-box students. And when it comes to admissions, CBS seeks out students who are a strong fit to their community and culture.

“With CBS, it really is a holistic approach, but the fit is VERY important,” according to Stacy Blackman Consulting. “They want to know why CBS—that is a big part of their culture. They want to know you’re going to fit in.”

Stacy Blackman, founder of Stacy Blackman Consulting, recently delve into the 2022-2023 CBS essay prompts and offered insight into what exactly CBS admissions officers are seeking.

ESSAY 1

The first essay prompt asks applicants:

Through your resume and recommendation, we have a clear sense of your professional path to date. What are your career goals over the next three to five years and what is your long-term dream job? (500 words)

While this essay is about your short- and long-term goals, Blackman says CBS is looking to understand who you are and how you’re different from the typical, “ideal” applicant.

“Don’t try to be an ideal applicant,” Blackman says. “Instead, reveal your genuine personality, motivations, and goals.”

To do this, it can be helpful to add perspective to your current situation and your goals.

“For example, perhaps you want to be a general manager of a company or division,” Blackman says. “But right now, you have been working primarily in marketing. Subsequently, you might take classes in finance and strategy and take part in consulting projects while interning at a start-up. All of these will provide experience for your general management path.”

ESSAY 2

The second essay prompt asks applicants:

We believe Columbia Business School is a special place. CBS proudly fosters a collaborative learning environment through curricular experiences like our clusters and learning teams, co-curricular initiatives like the Phillips Pathway for Inclusive Leadership, which aims to equip students with the skills and strategies necessary to lead in an inclusive and ethical manner, and career mentorship opportunities like our Executives-in-Residence program. Why do you feel Columbia Business School is a good fit for you academically, culturally, and professionally? (300 words)

This essay is designed to gauge your fit to the CBS community and culture. Before writing essay number two, Blackman suggests doing proper research into what makes CBS unique.

“For example, read the website, watch admissions sessions online or visit in person, and try to network with current and former students,” Blackman writes. “As a result of this research, you will know the school well.”

You’ll then want to tie your individual goals to the attributes of the CBS program. Blackman also recommends highlighting how you, as a student, will add to the culture and community of CBS.

“Think about the unique skills and experiences you will share,” Blackman says. “Columbia wants to meet students who have a strong desire to attend their program. In conclusion, show your passion for the school and make the case for your admission.”

ESSAY 3

The third essay prompt asks applicants:

Tell us about your favorite book, movie, or song and why it resonates with you. (250 words)

While your first and second essay are more focused on your professional and academic goals, the third essay aims to showcase who you are as a person. Blackman suggests choosing a topic based on your personal tastes and interests.

“For example, if you are a reader, you may pick a favorite childhood book,” Blackman says. “What do you remember about the story, and did it kindle your reading passion? In contrast, a movie might have spurred emotions. Consider what was memorable about the film, and how you felt. You may associate a specific song with a meaningful relationship. How did the song impact your life?”

Above all, the topic of your third essay should offer admissions officers insight into what makes you, you.

“Make sure you use specific examples that help the reader understand how you think and feel,” Blackman says. “Finally, your essay should provide an understanding of your personality and motivations.”

Sources: Stacy Blackman Consulting, P&Q