UCLA Anderson Essays & Analysis (Class of 2013, Starting Fall 2011)
DEADLINES (NOT POSTED YET)
REQUIRED ESSAYS Please be introspective and authentic in your responses. Content is more important than style of delivery. We value the opportunity to learn about your life experiences, aspirations, and goals.
1. What event or life experience has had the greatest influence in shaping your character and why? (750 words)
Analysis: Anderson has long taken an interest in the impact of family and community on the personal development of its applicants, but this year they are taking a different approach by asking for the one incident most responsible for who you are today. Note that the question does not preclude writing about a person or group of people, as long as the "event" or "life experience" revolves around them. Trace back as far as you can go to find the most profound answer, and to give yourself room to show how the ripples from that turning point can be seen in character-revealing accomplishments and experiences since then. The tone of this question is highly personal, so avoid ascribing your character development to professional experiences, though your follow-up experiences could certainly include them.
Please see: The MBA Personal Essay
2. Describe your short-term and long-term career goals. What is your motivation for pursuing an MBA now and how will UCLA Anderson help you to achieve your goals? (750 words)
Analysis: Straight up - Please see: The MBA Goals Essay and Why MBA School X?
OPTIONAL ESSAYS The following essays are strictly optional. These essays are for individuals who would like to provide additional information. No preference is given in the evaluation process to applicants who submit optional essays.
1. You may respond to the following question via written essay, audio or video clip: What is something people will find surprising about you?
Analysis: Last year, my clients worked hard and enjoyed expressing themselves uniquely and creatively using audio and video, with six gaining admission. So I'm disappointed that Anderson decided to make it optional this year. My advice is the same as last year: do the audio or video, especially if you are an international applicant with low TOEFL scores. And from my radio journalism experience, I suggest keeping your sentences short and punchy so you don’t gasp for breath while reading. Also, think creatively. Record yourself in a place that means something to you or shows an interesting side of your personality. Don't repeat anything from the other essays, especially from the "Character Shaping" essay. Keep it fresh. Have fun.
2. Are there any extenuating circumstances in your profile about which the Admissions Committee should be aware? (250 words)
REQUIRED ESSAY Reapplicants who applied for the entering Fall 2009 or 2010 class are required to complete the following essay. Please be introspective and authentic in your response. Content is more important than style of delivery. We value the opportunity to learn more about your aspirations and goals.
1. Please describe your career progress since you last applied and ways in which you have enhanced your candidacy. Include updates on short-term and long-term career goals, as well as your continued interest in UCLA Anderson. (750 words)
Analysis: Please see: The MBA Re-applicant Essay
OPTIONAL ESSAYS The following essays are strictly optional. These essays are for individuals who would like to provide additional information. No preference is given in the evaluation process to applicants who submit optional essays.
1. You may respond to the following question via written essay, audio or video clip: What is something people will find surprising about you?
Analysis: Please see above
2. Are there any extenuating circumstances in your profile about which the Admissions Committee should be aware? (250 words)
Analysis: Please see above