ESADE MBA – Essays Tips and Deadlines for 2024-25 

ESADE MBA – Essay Writing Tips 

Navigating the MBA application process for ESADE requires crafting essays that showcase your unique story, aspirations, and fit with the school’s culture. ESADE values leadership, innovation, and a diverse perspective. Here are essential tips to help you create standout essays for your ESADE MBA application.

From showcasing your personal and professional journey to highlighting your fit with ESADE’s unique culture, these insights will guide you in creating essays that resonate with the admissions committee. Dive in to discover how to effectively convey your experiences, goals, and the impact you aim to make, ensuring your application stands out in the competitive field.

Essay 1: Which aspects have you improved on during your academic and professional career so far? Which tools or values have helped you achieve this?

1. Identify Key Improvements:

• Clearly articulate the specific aspects you have improved during your academic and professional career.
• Explain the significance of these improvements.

Example: Throughout my career, I have focused on improving my leadership and project management skills. In my first role as a project coordinator, I struggled with time management and delegation. Recognizing these weaknesses, I sought out mentorship and enrolled in a project management certification course. Over time, I developed effective time management strategies and learned to delegate tasks efficiently, leading to successful project completions and a promotion to project manager.

2. Discuss Tools and Values:

• Highlight the tools and values that have helped you achieve these improvements.
• Explain how these tools or values have been instrumental in your growth.

Example: The values of continuous learning and perseverance have been pivotal in my journey. Leveraging tools such as mentorship programs, online courses, and project management software, I have been able to enhance my skills and deliver better results. These values and tools have not only helped me excel in my career but also instilled a growth mindset that drives me to seek continuous improvement.

3. Reflect on Impact:

• Reflect on the impact of these improvements on your personal and professional life.
• Discuss how these improvements align with your future goals.

Example: These improvements have significantly boosted my confidence and effectiveness as a leader. They have prepared me to take on more challenging roles and align with my goal of leading large-scale projects in the technology sector. The skills and values I have developed will be instrumental in achieving my long-term career aspirations and making a meaningful impact in my field.

Essay 2: How will your background, values, and non-work-related activities enhance the experience of other ESADE MBA students and add to the diverse culture we strive for at ESADE?

1. Describe Your Background and Values:

• Discuss how your background and values have shaped your perspective.
• Explain how these elements will enhance the experience of other ESADE MBA students.

Example: Coming from a multicultural background, I have always valued diversity and inclusivity. My experiences growing up in a diverse community have taught me the importance of understanding and appreciating different perspectives. These values have guided me in my professional life, where I have actively promoted diversity and inclusion initiatives.

2. Highlight Non-work-related Activities:

• Highlight significant non-work-related activities you have been involved in.
• Explain the impact of these activities on your character and how they will contribute to ESADE’s diverse culture.

Example: Outside of work, I am passionate about community service and environmental sustainability. As a volunteer with a local environmental organization, I have led numerous initiatives to promote recycling and conservation efforts. These activities have not only strengthened my leadership skills but also deepened my commitment to making a positive impact. At ESADE, I plan to contribute to the Green Business Club and other sustainability initiatives, fostering a culture of environmental consciousness among my peers.

3. Discuss Contribution to ESADE:

• Reflect on how your background, values, and activities align with ESADE’s culture.
• Discuss how you will contribute to the ESADE community.

Example: My background, values, and activities align well with ESADE’s emphasis on diversity, innovation, and social responsibility. I am excited to share my unique perspectives and experiences with my peers, contributing to a rich and diverse learning environment. By actively participating in clubs and initiatives, I hope to foster a collaborative and inclusive community at ESADE.

Essay 3: What are your motivations in pursuing a full-time MBA at this point in your life? Describe your mid-term and long-term visions for your post-MBA career path. What is it about ESADE you think will help you reach your goals?

1. Explain Motivations for an MBA:

• Clearly articulate your motivations for pursuing an MBA at this point in your life.
• Explain why this is the right time for you to pursue an MBA.

Example: After five years in the tech industry, I have gained valuable experience in project management and product development. However, I have reached a point where I need advanced business knowledge and strategic skills to take my career to the next level. An MBA will equip me with the necessary tools to lead cross-functional teams and drive business growth in a rapidly evolving industry.

2. Describe Mid-term and Long-term Goals:

• Clearly define your mid-term and long-term career goals.
• Explain why these goals are important to you.

Example: In the mid-term, I aim to transition into a strategic management role at a leading technology firm, where I can leverage my technical expertise and business acumen to drive innovation. In the long-term, I aspire to become a C-suite executive, leading a global organization and shaping its strategic vision. These goals are driven by my passion for technology and my desire to make a significant impact in the industry.

3. Discuss Fit with ESADE:

• Highlight specific aspects of the ESADE MBA program that align with your career goals.
• Explain how ESADE will help you achieve your mid-term and long-term career aspirations.

Example: The ESADE MBA program’s focus on innovation and entrepreneurship aligns perfectly with my career aspirations. Courses such as “Innovation and Business Transformation” and “Global Strategy” will provide me with the strategic insights needed to excel in my desired roles. Additionally, ESADE’s strong network of alumni in the technology sector and the school’s emphasis on experiential learning will offer valuable opportunities for professional growth and networking.

Essay 4: Complete two of the following four questions or statements (3,000 characters total, maximum)

a) I am most proud of…

1. Identify a Significant Achievement:

• Clearly describe the achievement or experience you are most proud of.
• Explain the impact it had on you and others.

Example: I am most proud of leading a team to develop a mobile application that helps connect volunteers with community service opportunities. This project required extensive collaboration, technical skills, and dedication. The app has since facilitated thousands of volunteer hours, positively impacting numerous communities. Leading this initiative taught me the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and social responsibility.

2. Reflect on Significance:

• Reflect on why this achievement is significant to you.
• Discuss how it has shaped your values and goals.

Example: This achievement is significant to me because it combined my passion for technology with my commitment to community service. It has reinforced my belief in the power of technology to drive positive change and inspired me to pursue a career where I can leverage my skills to create social impact.

b) People may be surprised to learn that I…

1. Share a Surprising Fact:

• Describe the surprising fact about you.
• Explain how this aspect of you impacts your personal or professional life.

Example: People may be surprised to learn that I am an avid amateur astronomer. I have spent countless nights observing the stars and planets, even building my own telescope. This hobby has taught me patience, attention to detail, and the importance of a long-term perspective.

2. Reflect on Significance:

• Reflect on why this fact is significant and what it reveals about you.
• Discuss how it contributes to your unique perspective.

Example: My passion for astronomy reflects my curiosity and love for exploration. It has instilled in me a sense of wonder and a drive to continuously seek knowledge. These qualities have been invaluable in my professional life, encouraging me to think creatively and approach challenges with an open mind.

c) What has your biggest challenge been and what did it help you learn about yourself?

1. Identify a Significant Challenge:

• Clearly describe the challenge you faced.
• Explain the actions you took to address it.

Example: One of the biggest challenges I faced was managing a critical project under tight deadlines while dealing with a significant team conflict. The project was at risk due to miscommunication and differing opinions within the team.

2. Reflect on Lessons Learned:

• Reflect on what you learned about yourself from this experience.
• Discuss how this challenge has shaped your values and character.

Example: This challenge taught me the importance of effective communication, empathy, and conflict resolution. By addressing the underlying issues and fostering open dialogue, I was able to unite the team and successfully complete the project. This experience has strengthened my leadership skills and reinforced my commitment to fostering a collaborative work environment.

d) Which historical figure do you most identify with and why?

1. Identify a Historical Figure:

• Describe the historical figure you most identify with.
• Explain their significance and why you identify with them.

Example: I most identify with Nelson Mandela due to his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. His resilience in the face of adversity and his ability to inspire change through peaceful means are qualities I deeply admire.

2. Reflect on Connection:

• Reflect on what this identification reveals about you.
• Discuss how it influences your goals and aspirations.

Example: Mandela’s dedication to social justice resonates with my own commitment to making a positive impact in society. His example inspires me to pursue a career in social entrepreneurship, where I can work towards creating inclusive and equitable opportunities for all.

Essay 5: Please, provide any additional information that you would like to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee.

1. Address Any Gaps or Weaknesses:

• Use this space to explain any gaps in employment, low grades, or other inconsistencies in your application.
• Focus on how you have grown or learned from these experiences.

Example: During my undergraduate studies, I faced a challenging semester due to a family health crisis, resulting in a temporary dip in my GPA. This experience taught me valuable lessons in time management and resilience. I developed better study habits and sought help from professors and peers, which led to significant improvements in my academic performance in subsequent semesters.

2. Highlight Unique Achievements:

• Discuss any significant accomplishments or experiences not covered in other parts of your application.
• Highlight extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or personal projects.

Example: Beyond my professional accomplishments, I have been actively involved in community service. As a volunteer at a local non-profit organization, I led fundraising initiatives that raised over $50,000 for community development projects. These experiences have honed my leadership and project management skills and reinforced my commitment to social impact.

3. Share Personal Insights:

• Provide any additional information that you believe will strengthen your application.
• Ensure that the information adds value to your candidacy and aligns with ESADE’s values and culture.

Example: I would also like to share my passion for promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. As a member of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee at my current company, I have led several initiatives to create a more inclusive environment, including organizing workshops on unconscious bias and developing mentorship programs for underrepresented groups. These efforts have not only fostered a more inclusive culture but also contributed to improved team performance and employee satisfaction. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my commitment to diversity and inclusion to the ESADE community and to contribute to the school’s efforts in this area.

Things to avoid in your ESADE Essays

• Avoid Overly Technical Jargon: While ESADE appreciates analytical and technical skills, filling your essays with too much industry-specific jargon can be off-putting. Ensure your essays are accessible to a broad audience, including those without your specific technical background.

• Don’t Underestimate the Personal Touch: ESADE values unique personal stories. Avoid focusing solely on professional achievements. Share personal anecdotes that illustrate your character, resilience, and passion. Personal stories can often be more memorable and impactful.

• Steer Clear of a One-Size-Fits-All Approach: Using the same essays for multiple schools can lead to a lack of specificity. Tailor each essay to highlight why ESADE is the perfect fit for your aspirations. Mention specific programs, professors, or aspects of the ESADE culture that resonate with you.

• Avoid Lack of Evidence for Leadership and Collaboration: ESADE places a high value on leadership and teamwork. Don’t just claim you have these qualities; provide concrete examples. Avoid vague statements and show real instances where you led a team, collaborated on a project, or contributed to a community.

• Don’t Ignore the Global Focus: ESADE has a strong global focus. Avoid essays that don’t touch on your global experiences or perspectives. If you lack international experience, discuss how you plan to gain global insights at ESADE or why this global perspective is important to you.