Tips for the Michigan Ross 2023-2024 MBA Essays

The University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business recently released their 2023-2024 MBA essay prompts, which include two short answers and a longer career goals essay.

Stacy Blackman, founder of Stacy Blackman Consulting, broke down each prompt and offered insight into what the Ross admissions team is looking for.

PART 1: SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS

The short answer questions ask applicants the following:

Select one prompt from each group. Respond to your selected prompts using 100 words or fewer (<100 words each; 200 words total).

Group 1

• I want people to know that I:
• I made a difference when I:
• I was aware that I was different when:

Group 2

• I was out of my comfort zone when:
• I was humbled when:
• I was challenged when:

The goal of these short answers is for adcom to get to know you on a personal level. The examples you reference in each essay are key.

“For example, you may want to write about an important extracurricular moment,” Blackman says. “Or maybe a challenge you overcame or a life event that highlights something unique about your background. The questions are short and purposeful. The experiences you describe should be clear and stand alone.”

The Group 1 prompts are designed for you to speak more about your values and background.

On the other hand, “Group 2 is more about your reaction to events in your life and your character,” Blackman says. “In addition, it could be an essay to describe your accomplishments. How do you interpret what happens to you and how do you handle adversity and discomfort? Perhaps you have had unique experiences in life thus far.”

PART 2: CAREER GOAL

The part 2 essay prompt asks applicants the following:

What is your short-term career goal and why is this the right goal for you? (150 words)

Capped at 150 words, the career goals essay requires a succinct and defined response.

“Many MBA candidates struggle to refine a career goal to just one,” Blackman says. “Of course, it’s possible to change your goals once you start attending school. However, clear goals tend to lead to success.”

Even if you do have more than one goal or interest in mind, for the sake of this essay, stick to just one.

“The Ross admissions committee has often said the best essays are focused,” Blackman says. “Remember, the ‘why’ is the most impactful and differentiating aspect of each essay. Therefore, Ross is asking for a succinct career goal and then an explanation.”

Sources: Stacy Blackman Consulting, Michigan Ross

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