Edhec Essays & Questions 2023-24
Letter of motivation- Please write a motivation letter explaining the following:
– Your career goals and how the Master of Science programme will help you achieve them.
– How your academic and professional background as well as personal characteristics equip you to follow the chosen programme and to make a positive contribution to it.
– How your personality and your experiences have prepared you to function as a team member and group leader in an international and culturally diverse environment.
– Why you are applying for this particular programme and why you want to study in France.
Rules–
Your essay should be typed and double-spaced. Include your name and the programme for which you are applying in the footer of each page.
Please remember that your statement of intent is a very important part of your application, which will help the Admissions Committee understand your personality, motivation and potential for management as well as the contribution you would make to the chosen programme as a member of the class.
Your essay should not exceed 1500 words.
Edhec MSBA Winning Sample Essays-1
Sample Letter of motivation-
Name: XYZ
Program: Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA)
Date: DD/MM/YYYY
I am excited to apply to the Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program at EDHEC Business School. As a management consultant at ZS Associates, I have seen firsthand the immense value that data-driven insights can bring to business decision-making. However, I believe there is still significant untapped potential to leverage advanced analytics and machine learning to drive even greater impact.
Career Goals and How the MSBA Program Will Help Achieve Them
The MSBA program at EDHEC is uniquely positioned to equip me with the technical skills in data science and business acumen necessary to become a leader in this rapidly evolving field. The curriculum’s focus on applying cutting-edge analytics techniques to real-world business challenges aligns perfectly with my goals. I am particularly drawn to the opportunity to work on a capstone project with a corporate partner, as I believe this hands-on experience will be invaluable for my future career.
My immediate career goal is to transition into a data science leadership role, where I can drive strategic, data-driven decision-making at the highest levels of an organization. Ultimately, I aspire to start my own analytics-focused consulting firm, helping companies across industries harness the power of data to innovate and grow. The MSBA program’s emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation will be instrumental in preparing me to achieve this long-term goal.
The program’s rigorous curriculum, which includes courses in machine learning, big data analytics, and business strategy, will provide me with a comprehensive understanding of both the technical and managerial aspects of business analytics. Moreover, the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with a diverse cohort of students from around the world will further enhance my global perspective and prepare me to lead in an international business environment.
Academic and Professional Background
My background as a management consultant has given me a strong foundation in problem-solving, communication, and working in diverse teams—all critical skills for success in the program. At ZS Associates, I have led teams in developing advanced analytics solutions for pharmaceutical clients. One notable project involved creating a contract assessment tool that reduced scenario modeling time by 70% and increased accuracy by 40%. These experiences have sharpened my ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable business strategies. Moreover, my role has required me to work closely with clients to understand their business needs and deliver tailored analytics solutions. This has not only honed my technical skills but also enhanced my ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
Additionally, my academic background in engineering has provided me with a solid technical foundation. During my undergraduate studies, I developed a keen interest in data analysis and machine learning, which I pursued through coursework and independent projects. These experiences have equipped me with the quantitative skills necessary to succeed in the MSBA program. I am confident that my strong analytical background, combined with my professional experience, will enable me to contribute effectively to the program and to excel in my future career.
Personal Characteristics and Contributions to the Program
I believe my personal characteristics equip me well to follow the MSBA program and make a positive contribution to it. I am highly motivated, results-oriented, and passionate about leveraging data to drive business success. My experience at ZS Associates has taught me the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving common goals. I have worked with diverse teams, bringing together individuals with different skills and perspectives to solve complex problems. This experience has reinforced my belief in the value of diversity and inclusion in fostering innovation and creativity.
As a proactive and enthusiastic learner, I am always seeking opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills. I have taken several online courses in data science and machine learning to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field. Additionally, I regularly attend industry conferences and webinars to network with professionals and learn from their experiences. I am confident that my proactive approach to learning and my commitment to personal and professional growth will enable me to make meaningful contributions to the MSBA program.
Preparedness for an International and Culturally Diverse Environment
My personality and experiences have prepared me to function effectively as a team member and group leader in an international and culturally diverse environment. As a member of ZS’s global team, I have had the opportunity to work with colleagues and clients from different cultural and professional backgrounds. This experience has enriched my understanding of global business dynamics and fostered a collaborative approach to problem-solving. I have learned to appreciate and respect diverse perspectives, which has enhanced my ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with people from different cultures.
Moreover, I have actively sought opportunities to broaden my international exposure. I have participated in global projects and attended international conferences, which have provided me with valuable insights into different business practices and cultural norms. These experiences have prepared me to navigate and thrive in a multicultural environment. I am excited about the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with a diverse cohort of students at EDHEC, and I am confident that my global mindset will enable me to contribute positively to the program.
Why I Am Applying for the MSBA Program and Why I Want to Study in France
I am applying for the MSBA program at EDHEC Business School because of its strong reputation as a leading business school in Europe and its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. The program’s comprehensive curriculum, which combines technical and managerial courses, aligns perfectly with my career goals. I am particularly impressed by EDHEC’s emphasis on experiential learning, as evidenced by the capstone project and the opportunity to work with corporate partners. This hands-on experience will be invaluable in preparing me for a successful career in business analytics.
Furthermore, EDHEC’s strong ties to the French business community and its extensive alumni network will provide me with unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth. I am particularly interested in the school’s initiatives to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, such as the EDHEC Incubator and the EDHEC Seed Accelerator. These initiatives align with my aspirations to start my own business in the future, and I am confident that the resources and support provided by EDHEC will help me achieve this goal.
France, with its rich culture, history, and vibrant business landscape, is an ideal location for pursuing my graduate studies. The country’s strong emphasis on innovation and technology, as well as its position as a global business hub, make it an attractive destination for aspiring business leaders. I am excited about the prospect of studying in France and immersing myself in the country’s vibrant culture and business environment. I believe that the international exposure and cultural experiences gained from studying in France will be invaluable in shaping my global perspective and preparing me for a successful career in business analytics.
In summary, the MSBA program at EDHEC Business School is the ideal next step in my career journey. With its rigorous curriculum, industry partnerships, and entrepreneurial spirit, I am confident that the program will provide me with the knowledge, skills, and network to achieve my goals and make a meaningful impact in the field of business analytics. My academic and professional background, combined with my personal characteristics and experiences, equip me well to follow the chosen program and to make a positive contribution to it. I am excited about the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with a diverse cohort of students and to immerse myself in the vibrant culture and business environment of France. I am confident that the MSBA program at EDHEC will equip me with the tools and knowledge needed to achieve my career aspirations and to make a lasting impact in the field of business analytics.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the EDHEC community and to pursue my passion for business analytics at your esteemed institution.
Sincerely,
XYZ
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Edhec Recommendation Letters and Key Questions
Please write a short candid description of the candidate. We are particularly interested in the candidate’s strengths, weaknesses and characteristics that would help the Selection Committee judge the candidate’s aptitude to succeed in the programme. Specific examples are more useful than generalisations.
- Please describe the candidate’s potential for becoming a responsible and successful manager in international business compared with other students or employees whom you have known in a similar capacity.
- How would you characterize the candidate’s major strengths?
- What do you consider to be his or her major weaknesses?
- How would you evaluate the candidate’s motivation, initiative and drive? Please give examples.
- How do you see the candidate’s career progressing over the next five years?
- Are there other issues you think the Admissions Office should consider in assessing this candidate’s suitability for the chosen MSc programme(s).
MSBA Recommendation Letters
(Free Samples & successful Examples)
Professor - Recommendation letter Sample 1
Date: 23 September 2023
Admissions Committee
Ms in Business Analytics Program
UC Davis
Subject: “Recommendation Letter for Akhila Mohan”
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for my former student, Akhila Mohan, who is applying for the Master’s in Business Analytics program at UC Davis. As her professor at COMSATS, where she pursued her Bachelor of Business Administration degree, I had the privilege of observing her brilliant academic and professional journey, which is punctuated with outstanding achievements. I am thrilled to support her application, as she possesses a unique blend of skills and qualities that make her an outstanding candidate for this program.
Academic Excellence and Analytical Skills
During her time at COMSATS, Akhila’s commitment to academic excellence was evident as she consistently ranked in the top 1% of her class and achieved remarkable results across all campuses. Her dedication to her studies and her exceptional intellect were further reflected in the numerous merit scholarships and medals she secured. She was an active leader in class discussions, curious and engaged, and consistently provided insightful contributions to diverse topics.
Initiative and Practical Application
Akhila’s interest in studying economic disparity within socioeconomic groups in Pakistan led her to survey women in underserved areas in her community. Using her research, she developed and implemented a financial literacy program to improve the livelihoods of economically disenfranchised women by imparting crucial money management knowledge and skills to enable their financial autonomy. This project showcases her ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world problems, a critical skill in business analytics.
Leadership and Multitasking Abilities
Throughout her academic tenure, Akhila demonstrated a remarkable ability to balance a multitude of responsibilities while excelling in every endeavor, both within and beyond the classroom. Her multitasking prowess is evident in her successful completion of five internships while maintaining exceptional grades, and notably her involvement with AIESEC, which showcased her dedication to global awareness for SDGs and cross-cultural exchange. Through her leadership in promoting student exchange programs, she facilitated transformative experiences for over 100 individuals through international exchanges and professional internships.
Conclusion
In summary, Akhila possesses a rare combination of academic brilliance, practical problem-solving skills, and leadership qualities. I am confident that she will excel in the Master’s in Business Analytics program at UC Davis and make significant contributions to both the program and the broader field. I highly recommend her as an exceptional candidate.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Institution Name]
Professor - Recommendation letter Sample 2
To,
Admissions Committee,
XXX University,
Date: 21 December 2022
Subject: Letter of Recommendation for Pranav
I have known Pranav for over two years now. He was a student in my Entrepreneurship course as part of his Minor in Entrepreneurship and Management. As a student in my class, Pranav showed great skill in applying these concepts in practical in-class quizzes, his final group business pitch at the end of the course, and his professional activities at UBS. Pranav also achieved remarkable performance in my course, earning the highest grade possible of A+.
Pranav stood out to me during the final project for the course evaluation. As a major assessment, I assign a project for students to work in groups and pitch a viable, self-sustaining business idea. Pranav took the initiative to create a multicultural and diverse team with students from different countries and majors, successfully delivering a business pitch for a student-run laundry and cleaning business. The idea was unique, and he actively sought my advice and mentorship to make the team and project successful.
Another noteworthy aspect is the analytical research Pranav conducted before and after seeking my advice. He made a concerted effort to learn about diverse topics he had not previously encountered and was able to grasp different aspects of entrepreneurship, such as management and finance. This demonstrated his goal-oriented and detail-oriented abilities. The idea, data-oriented research, and financial analysis were impressive, synthesized and executed effectively on assigned tasks. Additionally, the real-world considerations regarding the execution of the pitch and the cohesive delivery from a team collaboration perspective were excellent.
I was so impressed with the project that I asked Pranav if I could include the pitch and presentation as teaching material for my course. I also offered him a Research Assistant position for the following summer, which he was unable to accept due to his graduation.
Given his analytical skills and collaborative approach, it was no surprise to me that Pranav was able to transition into finance directly from his undergraduate studies in engineering, securing a role in finance with UBS in their Investment Banking Operations in Hong Kong.
In terms of areas for improvement, I believe Pranav’s analytical nature and attention to detail can sometimes lead him to get caught up in minutiae, affecting his time management. In the group project, Pranav struggled with time management and was a week behind schedule because he gave equal attention to all the details of the presentation, losing track of the bigger picture. With my guidance, he was able to get back on track and submitted the project by the deadline. However, I believe Pranav needs to develop a better overall view of projects to improve his time management.
Pranav is just beginning his financial career, but he already possesses analytical skills and an understanding of management, teamwork, and other organizational elements comparable to other top students I have recommended to Master’s programs. Pranav’s progress at CityU and UBS clearly demonstrates his intellect and dedication. He is capable and has a keen intellectual capacity for analytical thinking. I believe Pranav is on track to build a successful career that blends his quantitative inclinations with his qualitative skills, inspiring those he will lead and work with.
To conclude, I strongly recommend Pranav, and I would be happy to discuss his candidacy further if you have additional questions.
Regards,
XXXXX
Professor
XX university
Work Manager - Recommendation Letter Sample 1
Here is a quick PDF of a sample recommendation our client submitted for a successful admit.
Internship Manager - Recommendation Letter Sample 2
How long and in what capacity have you known the candidate?
I have known Pranav for roughly one and a half years. I was his mentor during his internship with UBS. Although he completed his internship and has moved on, we still continue to keep in touch to exchange different business ideas.
What do you think about the candidate’s professional performance and potential (including any room for improvement)?
When Pranav started his internship with UBS, he was one of the most proactive interns. Since he didn’t have a finance background, he showed keen interest in learning and came up the curve very quickly.
The team assigned him Automation and Efficiency-related projects, and while working in the automation team he managed to stand out from other interns by providing solutions that were slightly outside of the box and impressed everyone on the team.
For instance, he met with various team leads to understand their automation requirements and one team lead expressed her frustration with the manual risk report that used to take 10-12 hours every quarter. After the meeting, Pranav took the proactive step of helping automate this report for the team. The specific process automation that he implemented was for risk reports for the risk team. The team had a manual time consuming process in which they had to refer to multiple Excel sheets to create their quarterly risk report. Pranav understood and mapped the entire process before using an automation tool to automate it. This led to a time reduction of 90 percent in the compilation of the report. The automation process he designed was ingenious; no one had thought of using it before, and that is why I think everyone was impressed with his out-of-the-box thinking.
Apart from that, another one of his biggest strengths is his willingness to take initiative.
To highlight another instance, he noticed the dashboards in Operations and wider UBS were on Tableau, he took the initiative to compare Tableau and PowerBi and pitched shifting the employee statistics dashboard to PowerBi. The management team agreed and Pranav successfully created an Employee demographic dashboard on PowerBi. This led to cost savings for the department as UBS was already paying for PowerBi. He also took even more initiative, helping others in his team and UBS get certified on PowerBi and documented his knowledge for everyone before he left his internship.
On the flip side, when it comes to areas of improvement, I would also say this proactiveness and eagerness sometimes led to difficult situations. Like other fresh hires, he was also trying to prove himself in the initial months of his tenure with the team. However, this often meant that he would try to manage and solve things on his own instead of seeking help. This led to delays and situations becoming critical.
Pranav was tasked with getting certified on Automation Anywhere, another automation tool used by the team. He was unable to crack the certification according to the timeline assigned to him and was delayed by a month in getting certified. He tried to manage and solve the situation but was unable to do so without help from his team, this delay led to an increased workload for the rest of the team and longer hours as work had been earmarked for Pranav to do as soon as he would be finished with the certification.
Overall, I would say that Pranav has great potential; he is not afraid to take the initiative and present his ideas.
Regards
XXXXXX
Manager – UBS, Hong Kong Offices
Do's & Don'ts - of a Recommendation Letter
When it comes to writing great letter of recommendation, here are a few do’s and don’ts tailored for candidates applying to a Master’s in Business Analytics program:
Do’s:
1. Choose Relevant Recommenders:
– Do: select recommenders who can provide detailed and specific examples of your technical and analytical skills. Ideally, these should be people who have directly supervised your work in relevant roles, such as data analysis, business intelligence, or any analytics-related projects.
– Example: Your current or previous supervisors, project managers, or clients who have seen your analytical skills in action and can speak to your ability to handle complex data sets and derive meaningful insights.
2. Provide Context and Achievements:
– Do: give your recommenders a comprehensive list of your accomplishments and the context in which you achieved them. Highlight your contributions to significant projects, especially those involving data analysis, statistical modeling, or the implementation of analytics solutions.
– Example: Create a list detailing how your analysis led to actionable business decisions, cost savings, or process improvements. Share this list with your recommenders to help them write a more impactful letter.
3. Meet and Discuss Your Goals:
– Do: meet with your recommenders to discuss your career goals, reasons for pursuing a Master’s in Business Analytics, and why you have chosen specific programs. This helps them tailor their letters to align with your aspirations and the program’s focus.
– Example: Explain how the program’s curriculum, faculty, and resources will help you achieve your career goals in data science or business analytics.
4. Ensure Specific Examples:
– Do: encourage your recommenders to include specific anecdotes that highlight your skills and accomplishments. Real-life examples add weight and credibility to your recommendation.
– Example: Ask them to describe a particular project where you used your analytical skills to solve a complex problem, detailing your approach, tools used, and the impact of your work.
5. Set Early Deadlines:
– Do: set early personal deadlines for your recommenders to ensure they complete the letters well before the application deadlines. This gives you a buffer period to follow up if needed.
– Example: If your application is due on January 1st, ask your recommenders to submit their letters by December 1st to avoid last-minute issues.
Don’ts:
1. Avoid High-Ranking but Unfamiliar Recommenders:
– Don’t: choose recommenders based solely on their title or status if they are not familiar with your work. Letters from high-ranking individuals who cannot provide detailed and personal insights will be less effective.
– Example: Avoid asking a company CEO or a prominent professor you met briefly unless they have worked closely with you and can provide specific examples of your skills and achievements.
2. Don’t Write the Letter Yourself:
– Don’t: write the recommendation letter yourself, even if a recommender offers to sign it. Admissions committees can detect self-written letters, which can harm your credibility.
– Example: If a recommender suggests this, politely decline and offer to provide them with all the necessary information to write the letter themselves.
3. Avoid Generic Content:
– Don’t: let your recommenders submit generic letters that could apply to anyone. Generic praise without specific examples of your work and skills will not make your application stand out.
– Example: Ensure your recommenders avoid statements like “X is a great team player” without context or evidence supporting such claims.
4. Don’t Overlook the Instructions:
– Don’t: ignore the specific instructions and questions provided by each business school. Different programs might have different requirements for recommendation letters.
– Example: Make sure your recommenders address each question posed by the school’s recommendation form and follow any formatting or submission guidelines provided.
5. Avoid Subordinates as Recommenders:
– Don’t: ask subordinates to write your recommendation letters. Their perspective might not carry the same weight and could be seen as less objective.
– Example: Recommendations should come from individuals in a supervisory or client role who can objectively evaluate your performance and potential.
These tailored do’s and don’ts will help ensure that your recommendation letters are strong, relevant, and supportive of your application to a Master’s in Business Analytics program.
Free Sample Template - for your to Use
Recommendation letter template specifically tailored for candidates applying to a Master’s in Business Analytics program, including different structuring and clear instructions for highlighting relevant skills:
Admissions Committee
[Business Analytics Program Name]
[University Name]
[University Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Date:
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
It is my pleasure to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for the [Master’s in Business Analytics program] at [University Name]. I have had the privilege of working with [Candidate’s Name] at [Company Name] for [duration], where I serve as [Recommender’s Title]. In this time, I have observed [his/her/their] exceptional analytical skills and unwavering commitment to data-driven decision-making.
Analytical Skills and Achievements
One of [Candidate’s Name]’s standout projects was [specific project/task]. During this project, [he/she/they] [specific action taken], resulting in [quantifiable result/outcome]. This project clearly demonstrated [his/her/their] expertise in [relevant skills, e.g., data analysis, statistical modeling, predictive analytics].
In another significant endeavor, [Candidate’s Name] was responsible for [another specific project/task]. [He/She/They] utilized [specific tools or methodologies, e.g., Python, R, machine learning algorithms] to [specific action taken], which led to [quantifiable result/outcome]. This work highlights [his/her/their] ability to leverage complex datasets to drive strategic business decisions.
Problem-Solving and Innovation
[Candidate’s Name] is particularly adept at identifying business problems and formulating innovative solutions. For example, during [specific challenge], [he/she/they] [specific action taken], which significantly improved [specific metric or outcome]. [His/Her/Their] problem-solving skills and innovative approach are invaluable assets in the field of business analytics.
Collaboration and Leadership
[Candidate’s Name] excels not only as an individual contributor but also as a collaborative team member. In [specific team project], [he/she/they] [specific actions taken to lead or collaborate], fostering a productive and cohesive working environment. [His/Her/Their] ability to communicate complex analytical concepts to non-technical stakeholders was particularly noteworthy.
Constructive Feedback and Growth
In my experience, [Candidate’s Name] is highly receptive to feedback and committed to continuous improvement. I once advised [him/her/them] on [specific area for improvement], and [he/she/they] proactively [specific actions taken to improve], which led to [positive outcome or development]. This responsiveness and dedication to growth are crucial for success in a dynamic field like business analytics.
Conclusion
In summary, [Candidate’s Name] possesses a unique blend of technical expertise, problem-solving acumen, and collaborative spirit. I am confident that [he/she/they] will excel in the [Master’s in Business Analytics program] at [University Name] and make significant contributions to both the program and the broader field of business analytics.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Company Name]
This template provides a structured format that highlights the candidate’s analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative nature, making it suitable for applications to a Master’s in Business Analytics program.
