Wharton Scholar Deferred MBA Sample Essays & Recommendation Letters

Wharton Scholar Deferred MBA Winning Sample Essay 

ESSAY 1

My professional journey, from earning a dual degree in Industrial Engineering and Management at IIT Kharagpur to joining JP Morgan Chase, has fueled my passion for the intersection of technology and finance. My immediate goal is to excel in software development and machine learning in fintech, while my long-term vision is to transition into a Product Manager role and ultimately launch a fintech startup focused on decentralizing finance.

The Wharton MBA is pivotal to these goals. Wharton’s emphasis on finance and innovation, along with its cutting-edge courses like **“Fintech: Foundations and Applications of Financial Technology”** and **“Technology Strategy,”** will deepen my understanding of financial systems and equip me with strategic management skills. The **Entrepreneurship & Innovation major** will provide the essential toolkit to navigate the challenges of launching a startup, from ideation to scaling.

Wharton’s collaborative environment and industry connections are equally crucial. Engaging with the **Wharton FinTech Club** will allow me to immerse myself in the latest trends, while the **Wharton Scale School** and **Wharton Ventures** will offer hands-on startup experience. These platforms will enable me to refine my entrepreneurial ideas and gain insights from industry leaders and peers.

Additionally, Wharton’s global reach will broaden my perspective. The **Global Modular Courses** and **International Business Development** programs will expose me to diverse markets and cultures, essential for building a global fintech company that addresses financial inclusivity worldwide.

Moreover, I am excited to learn from Wharton’s esteemed faculty, including **Professors David Musto** and **Kartik Hosanagar**, whose research aligns with my interests in finance and technology. Their guidance will be instrumental in refining my approach to fintech innovation.

In essence, the Wharton MBA will equip me with the knowledge, network, and global exposure necessary to achieve my professional goals and make a meaningful impact in fintech. I am confident that Wharton’s resources and community will empower me to turn my vision into reality.

ESSAY 2

My diverse background in technology, finance, and leadership positions me to contribute significantly to the Wharton community. At IIT Kharagpur, I honed a unique skill set in software development and financial systems, which I further developed through internships at JP Morgan Chase and Siemens.

At Wharton, I plan to leverage my experience to contribute to the **Wharton FinTech Club** by sharing insights on practical challenges and opportunities in financial technology. Collaborating on fintech projects with peers will enable us to push the boundaries of innovation in this dynamic field.

My leadership experience, particularly as a Steering Committee Member for **Kshitij 2022**, India’s largest techno-management fest, has taught me the value of adaptability and strategic planning. Leading the team through the transition to a virtual event during the COVID-19 pandemic, I developed skills in crisis management and effective communication. I look forward to bringing this experience to Wharton by participating in and leading student initiatives, ensuring impactful and successful events.

Additionally, my commitment to fostering inclusive environments will drive my engagement with **Wharton’s diversity and inclusion initiatives**. My volunteer work with the **National Service Scheme** and mentorship roles have instilled in me a strong desire to support and uplift others. At Wharton, I will actively mentor peers and contribute to creating a supportive and inclusive community.

By sharing my technical expertise, leadership experience, and commitment to community building, I aim to make meaningful contributions that enhance the Wharton experience for all.

ESSAY 3

Since my previous application, I have experienced significant growth both professionally and personally. I accepted a pre-placement offer from JP Morgan Chase and have focused on deepening my expertise in fintech and machine learning. Working in the Payments division, I have developed financial applications and gained a deeper understanding of financial systems, reinforcing my commitment to a fintech career.

In addition to my professional growth, I enhanced my leadership skills by leading the virtual transition of **Kshitij 2022**. This experience taught me resilience, adaptability, and strategic thinking—qualities essential for my future endeavors.

I also pursued further education in blockchain technology and product management to stay at the forefront of industry trends. These efforts have expanded my knowledge and prepared me to contribute more effectively to Wharton.

I am now more determined than ever to join Wharton, where I can continue to grow, contribute, and achieve my professional goals.

OPTIONAL ESSAY

The journey to this point in my career has been shaped by resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to learning and growth. However, one personal challenge that has significantly influenced my perspective is my struggle with stammering. Growing up, stammering affected my confidence, especially in public speaking and social interactions. Yet, this challenge became a source of strength, teaching me patience, empathy, and the importance of effective communication.

During my time at IIT Kharagpur, I joined the **Toastmasters Club** to work on my communication skills. This experience was transformative, as it not only helped me improve my speech but also boosted my confidence in public speaking. I began to see stammering not as a limitation but as an opportunity to develop resilience and empathy. Over time, I took on leadership roles, such as leading **Kshitij 2022,** where clear communication was crucial. These experiences taught me that challenges can be powerful catalysts for growth.

At Wharton, I plan to share my journey with the community, especially with those who face similar challenges. I aim to be an advocate for those struggling with communication barriers, helping them find their voice in an environment that values diversity and inclusion. By participating in and leading initiatives focused on personal development and communication, I hope to contribute to a supportive environment where every student can thrive, regardless of their challenges.

Moreover, my experience with stammering has instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to fostering inclusive spaces. This perspective will drive my engagement with Wharton’s diversity and inclusion initiatives. I am particularly interested in contributing to the **Wharton Communication Program**, where I can share my experiences and mentor others who may face similar hurdles.

In conclusion, my journey with stammering has shaped who I am today—resilient, empathetic, and committed to personal growth. I look forward to bringing these qualities to the Wharton community, where I can contribute to a culture of inclusivity and support, helping others overcome their own challenges and achieve their full potential