Essay Advice for the 2017-2018 Columbia MBA Application

We are excited to deliver advice on Columbia Business School’s new MBA admissions essays. This is just a taste of what you can expect in addressing this years prompts. To skip right to the full version of our advice, click here. Lets look at each essay question individually: Essay #1 Through your resume and recommendations, we have a clear sense of your professional path to date. What are your career goals over the next 3-5 years and what, in your imagination, would be your long-term dream job? (500 words) The first essay essentially asks the applicant to describe their short term career goals and long-term dream job.   Quick advice: your goals should be researched, realistic, and real. Essay #2 The full-time MBA experience includes academics, recruiting, and networking. What are your personal priorities and how do you anticipate allocating your time at Columbia Business School? (250 words) The second essay asks the applicant to describe his or her personal priorities and how they plan to allocate his or her time at CBS.   Quick advice: go deep with your research before you start on this essay so you can show the admissions committee that you really understand what it’s like to be a Columbia Business School student, and that you know what you will be like as a member of the class and community. Essay #3 Please select and answer  one  of the following essay questions: (250 words) a. Please tell us what you feel most passionate about in life. b. If you were given a free day and could spend it anywhere, in any way you choose, what would you do? The third CBS essay  gives you a choice between answering two prompts, but is basically trying to learn what makes you you, or what makes you interesting.   Quick advice: be genuine and be memorable. Just a few quick thoughts on the new batch of admissions essays from Columbia Business School.  To read all of our detailed advice on the Columbia essays, visit  the Veritas Prep Essential Guide to Top Business Schools. Applying to Columbia  or other business schools? Call us at 1-800-925-7737 and speak with an MBA admissions expert today, or get free expert advice! As always, be sure to find us on  Facebook,  YouTube,  Google+  and  Twitter.