The MBA reapplicant essay is a crucial opportunity for candidates to reflect upon their previous application, address weaknesses, and showcase personal and professional growth. However, it is equally important to avoid certain mistakes that can undermine the effectiveness of your reapplication. In this blog, we will discuss common mistakes to avoid when writing the MBA reapplicant essay, ensuring that your essay presents a strong case for admission and increases your chances of success.
What is an MBA Reapplicant essay?
An MBA reapplicant essay is an additional essay required by business schools for candidates who have previously applied to their MBA program and were not admitted. It is an opportunity for reapplicants to reflect upon their previous application, address any weaknesses or shortcomings, and provide an updated perspective on their candidacy.
The MBA reapplicant essay aims to demonstrate personal and professional growth since the last application, showcase improvements made based on feedback received (if applicable), and reaffirm the candidate’s commitment and suitability for the MBA program. It allows reapplicants to present a stronger case for admission by addressing any weaknesses, highlighting achievements and experiences since the previous application, and providing an updated perspective on their goals and aspirations.
The MBA reapplicant essay typically asks candidates to reflect on the following points:
- Reflection on previous application: Reapplicants are often asked to honestly assess their previous application, acknowledging any weaknesses or shortcomings. This includes evaluating their profile, essays, recommendations, and interview performance.
- Demonstrating growth and improvement: Reapplicants should focus on showcasing personal and professional growth since the last application. This can include highlighting achievements, acquiring new skills, taking on additional responsibilities, and showcasing leadership experiences.
- Addressing feedback received (if applicable): Some business schools provide feedback to rejected candidates upon request. If feedback was received, the reapplicant essay is an opportunity to demonstrate how the candidate has incorporated the feedback and made significant improvements based on the recommendations provided.
- Updated career goals: Reapplicants should reflect on how their career goals have evolved or gained clarity since the previous application. They should explain how an MBA from the particular school will help them achieve their goals and contribute to their chosen industry or field.
- Demonstrating fit and interest: It is crucial for reapplicants to conduct thorough research on the MBA program they are reapplying to. The essay should reflect their understanding of the program’s values, culture, curriculum, and resources. They should emphasize specific aspects of the program that align with their goals and aspirations, showcasing their fit and interest in the school.
Overall, the MBA reapplicant essay allows candidates to reflect upon their previous application, demonstrate growth and improvement, address weaknesses, and reaffirm their commitment and suitability for the MBA program. It is a chance to present a stronger case for admission and showcase how the candidate has taken steps to enhance their candidacy since their previous application.
Mistakes to avoid in Reapplicant essay
Neglecting Self-Reflection and Growth:
One of the biggest mistakes in the MBA reapplicant essay is failing to demonstrate self-reflection and growth since the previous application. Admissions committees want to see how you have addressed weaknesses and improved as a candidate. Avoid simply reiterating your previous application or focusing on the same experiences. Instead, emphasize new achievements, skills acquired, leadership roles, and experiences that demonstrate personal and professional growth.
Ignoring Feedback and Not Incorporating Changes:
If you received feedback from the admissions committee in your previous application, addressing it in your reapplicant essay is crucial. Failing to acknowledge the feedback or not incorporating the suggested changes can signal a lack of self-awareness and a failure to learn from past mistakes. Use the feedback as a guide for improvement and clearly outline your steps to address the identified weaknesses.
Lack of Clarity and Cohesion:
Another common mistake is presenting an essay that needs more clarity and cohesion. Your reapplicant essay should have a clear structure, with a well-defined introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each paragraph should contribute to the overall theme and message of the essay. Avoid rambling or including unrelated information. Instead, focus on a few key points and present them in a concise and organized manner.
Overemphasizing the Negative:
While addressing weaknesses or shortcomings from your previous application is essential, avoid dwelling too much on the negative aspects. The reapplicant essay should showcase your growth and improvement rather than being a list of past failures. Strike a balance between acknowledging weaknesses and highlighting the steps taken to overcome them. Focus on the positive aspects of your development, achievements, and experiences that demonstrate your readiness for an MBA program.
Lack of Research and Fit:
Business schools want to admit candidates who are genuinely interested in their program and can contribute to its community. Failing to conduct thorough research on the MBA program and not showcasing your fit can be a significant mistake. Your reapplicant essay should reflect your understanding of the program’s values, curriculum, faculty, and resources. Explain how the program aligns with your goals, and emphasize specific opportunities or aspects that make it the ideal fit for your aspirations.
Superficiality and Generalizations:
Another common mistake is being too superficial or generic in your reapplicant essay. Admissions committees are looking for unique and authentic perspectives. Avoid using generic statements or clichés that could apply to any applicant. Instead, provide specific examples, anecdotes, and details that highlight your individuality, achievements, and experiences. Be genuine and allow your personality to shine through your writing.
Lack of Proofreading and Editing:
Submitting an MBA reapplicant essay filled with grammatical errors, typos, or structural issues can significantly weaken your application. Take the time to proofread your essay meticulously and ensure it is error-free. Additionally, pay attention to the overall flow and coherence of your writing. Consider seeking feedback from trusted individuals, such as mentors or friends, to gain additional perspectives and identify any areas that require improvement.
Failing to Demonstrate Determination and Future Plans:
The reapplicant essay should showcase your determination and commitment to pursuing an MBA. Failing to communicate your motivation and future plans can be a missed opportunity. Clearly articulate your goals and how an MBA from the specific program you are applying to will help you achieve those goals. Show the admissions committee that you clearly understand how the program’s resources, curriculum, and network will contribute to your professional growth and success. Demonstrate your passion for your chosen field and how the MBA will be a catalyst for your long-term aspirations.
Ignoring the Importance of Authenticity:
One of the most critical aspects of the reapplicant essay is authenticity. Avoid fabricating achievements, exaggerating experiences, or presenting a false narrative. Admissions committees are adept at recognizing inauthenticity and insincerity. Be honest about your journey, strengths, weaknesses, and the lessons you have learned. Your genuine self-reflection and authenticity will resonate with the admissions committee and strengthen your candidacy.
Procrastinating and Rushing the Writing Process:
Writing a compelling reapplicant essay requires time and thoughtful reflection. Procrastinating or rushing the writing process can lead to a subpar essay that fails to convey your growth and readiness for an MBA program effectively. Start early, allowing ample time for brainstorming, drafting, editing, and revising. This will ensure that your essay is polished and well-crafted, leaving a positive impression on the admissions committee.
Not Seeking External Feedback:
One of the most valuable resources when writing your reapplicant essay is the feedback and insights of others. Don’t rely solely on your own perspective. Seek feedback from trusted individuals, such as mentors, friends, or professionals who can provide objective insights and help you identify areas for improvement. Their feedback can help you refine your essay, strengthen your arguments, and ensure that your message is clear and impactful.
Conclusion:
Avoiding these common mistakes in the MBA reapplicant essay is essential for presenting a strong case for admission. By demonstrating self-reflection, incorporating feedback, showcasing personal and professional growth, highlighting fit with the program, and maintaining authenticity, you can increase your chances of success. Take the time to craft a well-written and compelling essay that clearly communicates your readiness, determination, and commitment to pursuing an MBA. With careful preparation, research, and attention to detail, you can maximize the impact of your reapplicant essay and position yourself for admission to your dream MBA program.
