Skema MiF – Essays Tips and Deadlines for 2024-25

Skema MiF – Essay Writing Tips 

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

From showcasing your personal and professional journey to highlighting your fit with Skema’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.

Question 1: In your opinion, what are the key challenges facing your generation?

1. Identify Relevant Global Challenges: Begin by identifying the most pressing challenges that you believe your generation faces. These could include economic instability, climate change, technological disruption, or social inequality. Make sure the challenges you choose are relevant to the finance industry or have broader implications for global business, reflecting Skema’s emphasis on addressing real-world problems.

Example: One of the key challenges facing our generation is navigating the rapid technological disruption in the financial sector. As fintech and AI transform traditional banking, there is a pressing need for professionals who can adapt to and manage these changes while ensuring ethical standards are maintained.

2. Discuss the Impact of These Challenges: Analyze how these challenges impact not only the finance industry but also society as a whole. This demonstrates your understanding of the broader implications of these issues and your ability to think critically about the future.

Example: The rise of fintech is creating both opportunities and risks, such as the potential for increased financial inclusion alongside concerns about data privacy and cybersecurity. Addressing these challenges will require a balance between innovation and regulation, as well as a deep understanding of both technology and finance.

3. Connect to Skema’s Values and Offerings: Conclude by connecting these challenges to Skema’s values and how the MiF program will equip you to address them. Highlight specific aspects of the program that align with your interest in tackling these challenges, such as courses in fintech or sustainable finance.

Example: Skema’s focus on innovation and its comprehensive fintech curriculum make it the ideal place for me to develop the skills needed to address these challenges. By leveraging Skema’s resources, I aim to contribute to the evolution of a more inclusive and secure financial system.

Question 2: Please comment on an important learning experience you have been through. It could be a moment of success or one of failure.

1. Choose a Significant Experience: Start by selecting a specific learning experience that had a significant impact on your personal or professional development. Whether it’s a success or failure, make sure the experience is relevant to your journey in finance and showcases qualities that Skema values, such as resilience, innovation, or leadership.

Example: During my internship at a financial services firm, I was tasked with leading a project to optimize the firm’s portfolio management process. Although the project initially faced setbacks due to unexpected market volatility, it ultimately taught me valuable lessons in risk management and adaptability.

2. Reflect on the Lessons Learned: Discuss the key lessons you learned from this experience. Reflect on how this learning experience shaped your approach to problem-solving, decision-making, or teamwork. Show that you can draw meaningful insights from both successes and failures, which is crucial for success in the finance industry.

Example: This experience taught me the importance of thorough risk assessment and the need to remain flexible in the face of uncertainty. It reinforced my belief that failure can be a powerful teacher, providing insights that are often missed in success.

3. Connect to Skema’s Program and Your Future Goals: Conclude by explaining how the lessons from this experience will help you succeed in the Skema MiF program and in your future career. Highlight how Skema’s curriculum and environment will allow you to build on this learning experience and further develop your skills.

Example: The lessons I learned from managing this project will be invaluable as I pursue the MiF program at Skema, where I plan to deepen my expertise in risk management and financial analysis. I am confident that Skema’s practical approach to learning will enable me to apply these insights in real-world financial challenges.

Things to Avoid in Your Skema Essays

1. Overlooking Skema’s Focus on Globalization and Multiculturalism: Skema places a strong emphasis on international exposure and multicultural understanding. Avoid writing essays that do not reflect an awareness of Skema’s global campus network and its diverse student body. Failing to mention how you plan to engage with or benefit from this global environment can weaken your application.

2. Ignoring the School’s Commitment to Innovation and Technology: Skema is known for integrating technology and innovation into its curriculum, particularly in finance. Avoid essays that do not acknowledge the importance of fintech, digital transformation, or innovation in the finance industry. Demonstrating an interest in these areas is crucial for aligning with Skema’s forward-thinking approach.

3. Failing to Address the Practical Learning Opportunities at Skema: Skema emphasizes practical learning through internships, projects, and case studies. Avoid essays that focus solely on theoretical knowledge without discussing how you plan to take advantage of these hands-on learning opportunities. The admissions committee wants to see that you are eager to apply your skills in real-world settings.

4. Underestimating the Importance of Ethical and Sustainable Finance: Skema has a strong focus on ethical practices and sustainability in finance. Avoid writing essays that do not reflect an understanding of or commitment to these values. Highlighting your alignment with Skema’s emphasis on responsible finance can strengthen your application.

5. Neglecting the School’s Entrepreneurial Spirit: Skema encourages an entrepreneurial mindset among its students. Avoid essays that do not demonstrate a willingness to innovate, take risks, or pursue entrepreneurial ventures. Whether you plan to start your own business or drive innovation within an organization, showing an entrepreneurial spirit is important.

6. Not Reflecting on How Skema’s Network Will Support Your Goals: Skema offers a robust alumni network and industry connections. Avoid essays that do not mention how you plan to leverage this network for career advancement. The admissions committee looks for candidates who are proactive in building and utilizing professional networks to achieve their goals.