IESEG Application Essays & Questions 2023-2024
Essay Question 1: Please describe your short-term and long-term career goals. How will the IESEG MIM program help you achieve these goals? (Word Limit: 500 words)
Essay Question 2: IESEG values diversity and encourages students to embrace different perspectives. How have your personal background, experiences, and cultural diversity shaped your worldview? How do you envision contributing to the diversity and inclusivity of the IÉSEG community? (Word Limit: 500 words)
Essay Question 3: At IÉSEG, we emphasize the development of leadership skills. Please describe a situation in which you demonstrated leadership, the challenges you faced, and the outcomes you achieved. What did you learn from this experience and how will it contribute to your growth as a leader in the IESEG MIM program? (Word Limit: 500 words)
IESEG Winning Sample Essays – 1
Essay Question 1: Please describe your short-term and long-term career goals. How will the IESEG MIM program help you achieve these goals? (Word Limit: 500 words)
In the short term, my goal is to transition into a strategic marketing role within the media and entertainment industry. Having spent over three years in the industry working with renowned clients like Netflix, I have gained substantial experience in content creation and social media strategy. However, my current role limits my ability to influence overall business strategy. I aim to work in a capacity where I can drive comprehensive marketing campaigns, shape brand narratives, and make impactful decisions that align with the company’s objectives and values. I am particularly interested in joining companies like Disney, Hulu, or Netflix, where I can leverage my background and bring fresh perspectives to their marketing teams.
In the long term, I envision myself as a transformative leader in the media and entertainment sector, specifically focusing on ethical and inclusive content creation. I aspire to become a VP of Marketing and Media Strategy, where I can drive change in how media influences society, particularly in shaping perceptions and mental health. My goal is to create content that is not only engaging but also socially responsible, ensuring it resonates positively with diverse audiences. I want to champion initiatives that promote realistic and inclusive representations in media, counteracting the often detrimental standards perpetuated by the industry.
The IESEG MIM program is an ideal stepping stone towards achieving both my short-term and long-term career aspirations. The program’s comprehensive curriculum, focusing on strategic management, marketing, and international business, will provide me with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in a strategic marketing role. Courses such as Marketing Management, Consumer Behavior, and Digital Marketing will deepen my understanding of key marketing principles and emerging trends, enabling me to craft effective and innovative marketing strategies.
Moreover, IESEG’s emphasis on a global perspective is particularly appealing to me. The international exposure, combined with a diverse cohort, will allow me to gain insights into different cultural and market dynamics, which is crucial for success in the global media industry. This exposure will equip me with the ability to design marketing campaigns that are culturally sensitive and globally resonant.
The program’s strong focus on practical learning through internships, live projects, and industry collaborations will be instrumental in bridging the gap between theory and practice. I am eager to apply the concepts learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios, enhancing my problem-solving and decision-making skills. The opportunity to engage with industry professionals and participate in networking events will also be invaluable in building connections and learning from experienced leaders in the field.
IESEG’s commitment to personal development and leadership training aligns with my long-term goal of becoming a transformative leader. The program’s leadership workshops, coaching sessions, and opportunities for leading student initiatives will help me hone my leadership abilities, preparing me to take on more significant responsibilities in my future roles.
The IESEG MIM program offers a robust platform that aligns perfectly with my career goals. It will equip me with the necessary skills, knowledge, and network to transition into a strategic marketing role in the short term and to evolve into a leader who drives positive change in the media and entertainment industry in the long term.
Essay Question 2: IESEG values diversity and encourages students to embrace different perspectives. How have your personal background, experiences, and cultural diversity shaped your worldview? How do you envision contributing to the diversity and inclusivity of the IÉSEG community? (Word Limit: 500 words)
Growing up in a culturally diverse country like India has profoundly shaped my worldview. India is a melting pot of various cultures, religions, and languages, and my experiences navigating this diverse landscape have instilled in me a deep appreciation for different perspectives. My family comes from a minority community, and living as a part of this minority within a broader multicultural society has taught me the value of inclusivity and empathy. From celebrating a multitude of festivals to engaging in different culinary traditions, my upbringing has been a rich tapestry of cultural interactions.
Professionally, my journey in the media and entertainment industry has further broadened my horizons. Working with clients like Netflix has exposed me to global content and diverse narratives, helping me understand the power of media in shaping perceptions and bridging cultural gaps. This exposure has reinforced my belief in the importance of creating inclusive content that resonates with a wide audience. My role often involves collaborating with international teams, which has honed my ability to work effectively with people from varied backgrounds.
My personal and professional experiences have cultivated a worldview centered on respect, empathy, and inclusivity. I believe that diversity enriches our lives and drives innovation. Whether it’s through my work in social media strategy or my involvement in community service, I strive to champion inclusivity and challenge stereotypes. For instance, through my non-profit organization ‘Beyond Issues,’ I have worked to destigmatize mental health issues in India, advocating for a more inclusive approach to mental health care that considers cultural nuances.
In my professional life, I have often found myself in situations where I needed to advocate for ethical and inclusive content. For example, I successfully pushed back against client demands that I felt promoted female objectification, advocating instead for content that respects and empowers women. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to fostering environments where diverse voices are heard and respected.
At IESEG, I envision contributing to the community’s diversity and inclusivity in several ways. Firstly, I will bring my unique cultural perspective and professional experience to the classroom. I am eager to share insights from the Indian media landscape and discuss the challenges and opportunities of working in a culturally diverse environment. My background will add a different dimension to classroom discussions, particularly on topics related to marketing, media, and ethics.
I also plan to actively engage in student organizations and initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion. By joining or even initiating clubs focused on cultural exchange, mental health awareness, and ethical media practices, I hope to create platforms for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. I believe that sharing stories and experiences is a powerful way to foster understanding and break down cultural barriers.
I am committed to mentoring and supporting peers from diverse backgrounds. Having benefited from mentorship myself, I understand its importance and am eager to give back by helping others navigate their journeys at IESEG. Whether it’s through formal mentoring programs or informal peer support, I aim to contribute to a supportive and inclusive community where everyone feels valued and empowered.
My diverse background and experiences have equipped me with a unique perspective that I am excited to bring to the IESEG community. I am committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and empathy, and I look forward to contributing to a vibrant and enriching learning environment at IESEG.
Essay Question 3: At IÉSEG, we emphasize the development of leadership skills. Please describe a situation in which you demonstrated leadership, the challenges you faced, and the outcomes you achieved. What did you learn from this experience and how will it contribute to your growth as a leader in the IESEG MIM program? (Word Limit: 500 words)
During my tenure as a Senior Brand Partner at Please See //, I encountered a challenging situation that tested my leadership abilities and shaped my growth as a leader. We were working on a significant campaign for Netflix India, aiming to increase engagement on their social media platforms. The campaign required coordinating efforts across a team of 40 designers, writers, and content producers, all working under tight deadlines to meet the client’s high expectations.
One of the major challenges was a sudden shift in the client’s requirements midway through the project. They wanted to change the creative direction, which meant revising already approved content and producing new material in a limited timeframe. This change led to confusion and frustration within the team, as we were already operating at full capacity.
As the team leader, I knew it was crucial to address these challenges head-on to ensure the project’s success. My first step was to hold an urgent team meeting to communicate the changes clearly and transparently. I acknowledged the frustration but emphasized the importance of flexibility and adaptability in our industry. By providing a clear roadmap and breaking down the new tasks into manageable parts, I aimed to reduce the overwhelming nature of the situation.
I also took the initiative to reallocate resources and responsibilities based on each team member’s strengths and current workload. This involved close collaboration with the project managers to ensure that everyone had a clear understanding of their revised roles and deadlines. Additionally, I established smaller teams to focus on different aspects of the new requirements, which helped streamline the workflow and maintain a high level of productivity.
Throughout this process, I maintained open lines of communication, encouraging team members to voice their concerns and suggestions. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, I aimed to boost morale and keep the team motivated despite the challenging circumstances.
Thanks to the collective efforts and enhanced coordination, we were able to meet the revised deadlines and deliver high-quality content that exceeded the client’s expectations. The campaign not only increased Netflix India’s social media engagement but also received positive feedback from both the client and the audience. This success was a testament to the team’s resilience and ability to adapt under pressure.
This experience taught me several valuable lessons about leadership. First and foremost, I learned the importance of clear and transparent communication. Keeping the team informed and involved in the decision-making process helped build trust and fostered a sense of ownership among team members.
Secondly, I realized the significance of flexibility and adaptability in leadership. The ability to pivot and manage unexpected changes is crucial in any dynamic environment. By staying calm and focused, I was able to guide the team through uncertainty and maintain our collective momentum. Lastly, this experience reinforced the value of leveraging individual strengths within a team. By understanding each team member’s capabilities and reallocating tasks accordingly, we were able to maximize efficiency and productivity.
The leadership skills I honed during this challenging project will be invaluable as I pursue the IESEG MIM program. I plan to apply these skills by actively participating in group projects, student organizations, and leadership workshops. My ability to communicate effectively, adapt to changing circumstances, and leverage team strengths will enable me to contribute positively to the IESEG community. Moreover, I aim to take on leadership roles within student initiatives and clubs, fostering an environment of collaboration and inclusivity. By sharing my experiences and learning from my peers, I hope to continue growing as a leader and make a meaningful impact at IESEG and beyond.
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IESEG Recommendation Letter – Key Questions
- In what capacity have you known the candidate? (No word limit)
- If this is a work-related reference, in what position is/was the candidate employed and for how long? (No word limit)
- What do you consider to be the candidate’s principal strengths/talents? (No word limit)
- What do you consider to be the candidate’s weaknesses or areas that need improvement? (No word limit)
MiM Recommendation Letters
(Free Samples & successful Examples)
Professor - Recommendation letter Sample 1
Here is a quick PDF of a sample recommendation our client submitted for a successful admit.
Professor - Recommendation letter Sample 2
How do you know the applicant? How long have you known them for?
I am the Dean and Professor at Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Technology in Rohini, India. I have known Pavani since her first semester, where she was in my “Fundamentals of Computing” class.
I have had multiple opportunities to interact with Pavani as she was leading the student activities for her batch and was also working on the “Automated Stock Trading algorithm” project as a part of the curriculum, under my guidance.
What would you say are the applicant’s key strengths and talents?
One of Pavani’s primary strengths is her ability to lead a team even in uncertain situations. In her final year, Pavani was the Organizing Committee Member of the International Conference. Since it was the first conference of its kind, there were no previous benchmarks, or processes in place. Right from marketing, outreach events, finding vendors for event management, to logistics – everything had to be figured out from scratch. The budget was also crunched which further did not help the situation.
Pavani went beyond her responsibilities and took the lead on the project. She worked with other team members, discussed with them and charted a plan. She delegated responsibilities to fellow peers, and also guided them on their tasks. There were also conflicts in the team, and unforeseen problems. One of the vendors cancelled the contract two days before the conference. Pavani immediately reached out to other vendors through personal contacts and engaged the team with a calm mind and got things done. Thanks to Pavani, the conference was a huge success with over 60 participants from multiple countries. As a result, 3 projects were selected and funded by our institution. The conference is now recognised internationally and is set to take place again next year in February.
Pavani also demonstrated her leadership capabilities while working on a project under my guidance. The project was focused on building automated stock trading algorithms that managed to maximize cumulative profit. Although she did not come from a finance background, Pavani quickly learnt the basic concepts. She also brought her team members onboard by coaching them and teaching how the stock market works. With the team’s support, Pavani was able to build a functioning algorithm that got published in a reputed Journal – “Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research”. I believe Pavani is the kind of candidate who can take ownership and deliver things with minimal guidance.
In which areas of development has the applicant progressed the most in the time you’ve known them?
Initially, when I met Pavani, she was a shy person who was not confident to lead a team. Even though she might have brilliant ideas, she used to keep it to herself and not put it forward. As a consequence of being shy, she even preferred to work alone rather than in teams. She needed a little encouragement to help break her out of her shell. Slowly, she started putting forth her ideas. As those ideas were adopted by her teammates, she started gaining confidence. She quickly learnt to plan, lead and delegate a team effectively.
Pavani grew to participate in competitions, representing the college on national level. Seeing her progress into an effective leader, I appointed Pavani as the organisational head of an international conference that took place in our campus in February 2020 as mentioned above.
Pavani also progressed tremendously in her academics from 7 CGPA in 1st semester to 9 CGPA in later semesters. Her performance has progressed not just in theory but practical as well. She was part of 2 research papers that were published in reputable journals.
Another area that Pavani needs to develop is to be open and listen to other’s opinions. Sometimes, Pavani is quite stubborn when it comes to her plans and would want to execute them the way she has planned them. Therefore, she is at times not open to new viewpoints or any suggestions to the plan she came up with. This arises from her own perceptions that changing plans will lead to chaos and hence poor performance. In one of our sessions, I coached her and made her understand that she alone cannot control all things and she alone cannot achieve great things. She understood the importance of teamwork and she has been trying to work it out. She is now a bit more open to new ideas and opinions. I believe she will learn these qualities over time and experience.
In what ways might the applicant contribute to the Masters in Management Program?
Pavani has always volunteered and stepped up to lead student activities. I have no doubt that she would continue to do the same at London Business School. With her experience in event management, she will be a great asset to lead student run activities and events.
Apart from that, I think Pavani is a fast learner who is always enthusiastic to teach her fellow batchmates. She has held multiple tutor sessions for juniors and fellow batchmates on tough courses. She will contribute to the class by bringing her technical expertise during discussions and also coaching them on relatively tough concepts.
Is MiM Program a right fit for the candidate right now?
This course would be the natural academic evolution for her. On multiple occasions, Pavani has expressed her interest in taking up roles that are in the intersection of business and technology. Engineering gave her a strong foundation in technology and analytical skills. But she needs the academic experience and learning about the business world. More importantly MiM will also groom her leadership abilities and impart holistic thinking capabilities. Pavani has a great potential to learn and succeed. And I believe MiM will be a step in the right direction towards achieving her goals.
Internship 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
ESCP
Master in Management Program
Paris, France
Date: 12-07-2022
To whomever it concerns
I am writing this letter of recommendation on Behalf of Payal Saxena for her admissions into the MiM Program at your prestigious university. I have observed Payal in the capacity of a mentor and guide for about 8 months, during which she, along with her two peers, developed an algorithm for fully automated stock trading.
Payal approached me for guidance to work on a project, which they aimed to showcase in a project challenge. This project carries a lot of value and adds towards the credits for their final degree. Initially, when the team brainstormed on the ideas, Payal raised her interest to solve some real problem using technology. The team did not want to do robotics or bot building rather create a value using their technical skills. So we decided to build an automatic stock trading algorithm.
Payal’s willingness to learn and creative problem solving abilities was evident throughout the project. When we started the project, Payal had a very basic understanding of stocks, but she was determined to learn. She took the initial few weeks to study up and research. I was surprised how quickly she ramped up her knowledge on the subject. She was studying trends on money control websites, mainly high performing stocks over different time periods. She always used to come up with new ideas, parameters to identify some patterns. True that Payal needed guidance on the subject and a little push from my end. Nonetheless, she used to contemplate and brainstorm with the team with utmost enthusiasm and result-oriented mindset.
Another strength of Payal is her team leading capabilities. As this topic is entirely new for engineering students, she helped her fellow team members understand the topics by coaching them. She was also helping the team by translating the business problem into a technical language that is easy for the team to grasp and understand. I could clearly see Payal taking a lead on the project, guiding her members, provoking them to think differently, and motivating the team with a “can-do” attitude. Finally the team applied different indicators with different timelines and devised a mathematical equation which could be coded upon. And the team succeeded in building an algorithm with the use of a golden crossover indicator with moving averages of 9 minutes and 21 minutes.
One thing that I have noticed during my time with her is that she is very stubborn. If she wants to try a new model, she wants to try it. Even if I guide her that this model may not actually work, she will still try her hands and then realise on her own when the results come out. She makes this plan in her mind and she wants to follow it through, and she is not very receptive to any changes or updates to that plan. I understand that this stems from her passion to solve problems and experiment on her own. However, she may not have the luxury of time and resources to do this in the real business world. I have advised Payal on the same and she listened to me carefully. I believe she will overcome this weakness over time and experience.
Payal is at the right inflection point in her career transition. She has strong technical skills, and she has always expressed interest to solve business problems using her skill set. I believe a MiM will help her gain that business understanding and also groom her leadership skills early in her career. I would definitely recommend Payal as a strong candidate for the MIM program
I hope the admissions committee sees the potential in Payal as I do, and I wish Payal all the best in her future endeavours.
Regards
XXXXXX
Manager, XXXXXXX
Do's & Don'ts - of a Recommendation Letter
Based on the Letters of Recommendation Guide, here are five tailored do’s and don’ts for writing recommendation letters for candidates applying to a Master’s in Management (MiM) program:
Do’s:
1. Choose a Recommender Who Knows You Well:
– Do: Select a recommender who has worked closely with you and can provide specific examples of your management skills, leadership potential, and professional achievements. This person should be able to speak to your capabilities and character in a detailed and nuanced manner.
– Reason: Admissions committees value depth and specificity in recommendations over the recommender’s title or prestige .
2. Highlight Relevant Skills:
– Do: Ensure the recommender highlights skills relevant to an MiM program, such as leadership, strategic thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. Examples of how you managed projects, led teams, or solved complex problems should be included.
– Reason: Relevant skills demonstrate your preparedness for the rigorous demands of a management program .
3. Provide Specific Examples:
– Do: Encourage your recommender to provide detailed examples of your accomplishments. Anecdotes that illustrate your leadership in action or your ability to strategize effectively add credibility to the letter.
– Reason: Specific examples make the recommendation more credible and compelling, showing concrete evidence of your potential .
4. Meet with Your Recommender:
– Do: Arrange a meeting with your recommender to discuss your achievements, career goals, and reasons for pursuing an MiM. Provide them with a résumé and a list of your key accomplishments to help them write a comprehensive letter.
– Reason: This ensures that your recommender has all the necessary information to write a strong, personalized recommendation .
5. Ensure Timely Submission:
– Do: Set a personal deadline for your recommender that is well ahead of the application deadline. Follow up periodically to ensure they are on track.
– Reason: This helps avoid last-minute issues and ensures that your application is complete on time .
Don’ts:
1. Don’t Write Your Own Recommendation:
– Don’t: Never write your own recommendation letter, even if asked to do so by a recommender. Politely decline and offer to provide detailed information instead.
– Reason: Self-written letters lack objectivity and can be easily spotted by admissions committees, potentially harming your application .
2. Don’t Choose Recommenders Based on Title Alone:
– Don’t: Avoid selecting recommenders solely based on their impressive titles if they do not know you well. A generic letter from a high-ranking official is less effective than a detailed letter from someone who knows your work intimately.
– Reason: Admissions committees value insight and detail over prestige. A superficial letter can undermine your application .
3. Don’t Ignore the Instructions:
– Don’t: Ensure your recommenders follow the specific instructions and format required by each school. Avoid generic letters that do not address the school’s particular questions or criteria.
– Reason: Different programs may have unique requirements, and adherence to these shows attention to detail and respect for the application process .
4. Don’t Overuse Superlatives:
– Don’t: Instruct your recommender to avoid excessive use of superlatives without backing them up with specific examples. Phrases like “the best” or “outstanding” should be supported by detailed evidence.
– Reason: Over-the-top praise can seem insincere unless substantiated with concrete examples. Balanced, realistic assessments are more credible .
5. Don’t Choose Recommenders Who Are Unfamiliar with Your Recent Work:
– Don’t: Avoid selecting recommenders who have not worked with you in the past few years, unless absolutely necessary. Their insight may be outdated or less relevant.
– Reason: Current supervisors or colleagues are better positioned to speak about your recent achievements and current potential .
These do’s and don’ts will help ensure that the recommendation letters for candidates applying to a Master’s in Management program are strong, detailed, and effective in supporting their application.
Free Sample Template - for you to use
Free Recommendation letter template specifically tailored for candidates applying to a Master’s in Management (MiM) program, with a distinct structure and instructions to highlight relevant skills.
Admissions Committee
[Master’s in Management Program Name]
[University Name]
[University Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Date:
Subject: Recommendation letter for —-“
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am delighted to recommend [Candidate’s Name] for the [Master’s in Management program] at [University Name]. I have been [Candidate’s Name]’s [supervisor/manager/colleague] at [Company Name] for [duration], and during this time, I have closely observed [his/her/their] professional growth and achievements.
Key strenghts and Competencies
[Candidate’s Name] has demonstrated a strong aptitude for management, particularly in the areas of [relevant skills, e.g., leadership, strategic thinking, team collaboration]. In [specific project/task], [he/she/they] [specific action taken], resulting in [quantifiable result/outcome]. This project exemplifies [his/her/their] ability to manage complex initiatives and drive significant results.
Initiative and Problem-Solving
A notable example of [Candidate’s Name]’s initiative was during [specific situation]. [He/She/They] identified a critical issue in [context] and took proactive steps to [specific action taken], which led to [positive outcome]. This instance highlights [his/her/their] problem-solving capabilities and proactive approach.
Leadership and Team Dynamics
[Candidate’s Name] excels in leading teams and fostering a collaborative environment. During [specific team project], [he/she/they] [specific actions taken to lead the team], ensuring that all team members were aligned and motivated. The project’s success, marked by [specific achievements], is a testament to [his/her/their] effective leadership and team management skills.
Areas of improvement and Growth
[Candidate’s Name] is highly adaptable and continuously seeks to improve. After receiving feedback on [specific area for improvement], [he/she/they] [specific actions taken to improve], resulting in [positive development]. This commitment to personal and professional growth is a key attribute that will serve [him/her/them] well in the [Master’s in Management program].
Overall Recommendation
In conclusion, [Candidate’s Name] is an outstanding candidate for the [Master’s in Management program] at [University Name]. [His/Her/Their] combination of management skills, leadership qualities, and dedication to continuous improvement make [him/her/them] well-suited for your program. I am confident that [he/she/they] will make significant contributions and excel in this academically rigorous and dynamic environment.
Sincerely,
[Recommender’s Name]
[Recommender’s Title]
[Company Name]
This template is structured to highlight the candidate’s management expertise, leadership abilities, and dedication to continuous improvement, making it suitable for applications to a Master’s in Management program.