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Kelley Business School admits a small class of around 200 MBA students each year, which means a sense of community is not simply a nice-to-have, but a distinct feature of its student body.
Its location in a small midwestern college town reinforces this aspect. It’s reputation as a traditional Big 10 college town with a beautiful campus attract students from all over the world each year.
A successful applicant must illustrate how they will contribute to the Kelley community with their own unique perspective and without a sense of ego or inauthenticity. Here are some things to consider as you write.
1. When expanding on your career goals, be sure to choose something that you have a genuine interest in.
You will be asked about it again during your interview. Pick a realistic backup career goal, and one not too similar to the primary option, so the Admissions Committee doesn’t feel like you are putting all of your hopes on something very specific.
2. The “Academy” feature of Kelley is a very distinctive aspect of the program, and one that merits mentioning within the context of your career goals.
Academies offer first-year students access to a mentor, peer coach, career coach, as well as targeted networking opportunities including career treks across the country. There are six academies to choose from and these can complement your major or expand your horizons into other areas of interest.
Describe how you will benefit from your First-Year Academy, as well as eventually contribute to it – maybe by organizing career speakers, inviting alumni to campus (one of the largest alumni networks in the US!), or collaborating on interview preparation.
3. Kelley’s short essay prompts give you a chance to expand on your personal side and show what makes you a valuable addition to the class.
Don’t brag about your academic and professional achievements – rather, pick something you might share with a Kelley classmate on the first day of school. If you can pick an example to write about that shows personal growth and development, even better.
4. When sharing the brief fact about yourself, choose something that might surprise someone who doesn’t know you beyond your resume and transcript.
Have fun with it by showing who you really are.
The 3 C’s of Kelley must be exhibited in every form throughout the application – including essays, recommendation letters, and the interview. At Kelley, a shared mission is valued over the needs of a single individual.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]