nyu mba essay sample

• NYU Stern School of Business Essay Tips and Examples

June 2, 2023

Jeremy Shinewald

NYU Stern 2023–2024 Essay Tips

Short Answer: Professional Aspirations 

What are your short-term career goals (150 word maximum, double-spaced, 12-point font).

With this rather no-nonsense query about your motivation to earn an MBA and expectations as to where you will go with it after graduation, NYU Stern simply wants you to spell out what you have in mind as you approach this phase of your life and career. With just 150 words, you do not have any space to waste here, so focus on presenting your answer as directly and thoroughly as possible. Keep in mind that the rest of your application needs to provide evidence that your stated goals align with your existing skills and interests, especially once they have been augmented by an MBA education. This will show that your professed objectives are achievable and thereby lend credibility to your statement. The school does not ask specifically about past experiences or what about its program in particular makes it the best one for you, though brief mentions of either would be acceptable if they are particularly important to conveying your main points. 

Essay 1: Change: _________ it 

In today’s global business environment, the only constant is change. using nyu stern’s brand call to action, we want to know how you view change. change: _____ it. fill in the blank with a word of your choice. why does this word resonate with you how will you embrace your own personal tagline while at stern (350 word maximum, double-spaced, 12-point font), change: dare it. change: dream it. change: drive it. change: empower it. change: manifest it. change: [any word of your choice] it..

If your first instinct when you read this prompt is to immediately start brainstorming catchy, cool-sounding slogans and trying to find something that will “wow” the admissions committee, you need to pump the brakes. To craft the most effective response to this unique essay prompt, you will most likely need to work backward. The slogan is obviously the centerpiece of this essay, but you must be able to persuade the school that it is truly meaningful for you personally and is the basis of something you expect to do at the school and/or how you anticipate engaging with the NYU Stern community. So if you do not choose an authentic idea (word) that will position you to write compellingly and convincingly on these two points, you will have probably wasted your time, not to mention this interesting opportunity to share more about yourself with the admissions committee.

Start by thinking at length about what change really means to you personally and professionally. How has it played a role in your life and career to date? What is your reaction to change? How do you tend to navigate it? Do you enjoy creating change, or do you resist it? Why? Let your mind really roll with these kinds of questions so that you uncover as many options as possible, and rest assured that there is no “right” answer that the admissions committee is expecting you to guess. Choosing a word that is genuinely important to you and reflective of your attitude with respect to change is what will make your essay powerful and memorable—not a word you are hoping no one else will use or that forces the admission reader to reach for the dictionary because it is so obscure. And keep in mind that you do not necessarily have to frame change as something that should always be indiscriminately pursued merely for change’s sake. For example, something like “regulate change” could be an appropriate and even compelling choice if the candidate has strong personal reasons for this mind-set and can clearly express how it could be an additive or useful one at Stern.

Again, in asking how you expect to “embrace your . . . tagline while at Stern,” the admissions committee wants to know how you envision yourself participating in, and perhaps influencing or contributing to, the school’s greater community. For you to offer your strongest possible ideas on this point, you really need to know the school well, because if what you describe or propose is just not possible at Stern or does not align with its values and culture, this will definitely not be a point in your favor. As you do your research, look for specific niches and opportunities that correspond not only with your proposed slogan but also with your personality, strengths, knowledge, and/or experience. Read student blogs, peruse discussion boards, catch up on the past year or more of press releases from the school, spend some time on Stern’s YouTube channel —these are all good places to start (or better, continue!) educating yourself about what life at the school is really like, beyond the course work.  

Also, for a thorough exploration of NYU Stern’s academic offerings, defining characteristics, crucial statistics, social life, community/environment, and other key facets of the program, consider downloading your free copy of the mbaMission Insider’s Guide to the Leonard N. Stern School of Business at New York University .

Essay 2: Personal Expression (a.k.a. “Pick Six”)

Describe yourself to the admissions committee and to your future classmates using six images and corresponding captions. your uploaded pdf should contain all of the following elements:, a brief introduction or overview of your “pick six” (no more than 3 sentences). six images that help illustrate who you are. a one-sentence caption for each of the six images that helps explain why they were selected and are significant to you., note: your visuals may include photos, infographics, drawings, or any other images that best describe you. your document must be uploaded as a single pdf. the essay cannot be sent in physical form or be linked to a website..

We imagine that the initial reaction most candidates have to pretty much any prompt that does not request a traditional essay is momentary panic (though, to be fair, that is likely many applicants’ reaction to traditional essays as well), but let us reassure you a bit before we delve more deeply into how best to approach this one. One could argue that in many ways, this essay prompt is merely asking you to do something we assume you are already doing every day and have possibly been doing for years—curate an impression of yourself for others by sharing certain images and other media that resonate with you. Is that not what people regularly do via Twitter, Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, and any number of other social media venues by posting photos, memes, infographics, cartoons, and the like, typically along with a related comment? When you think of the task NYU Stern has presented you with this framework in mind, do you feel a little more confident about mastering it? We hope so.

In this case, rather than passing along just anything you think is funny or interesting or documenting your latest adventure or meal, you are communicating directly with a very singular audience, within a certain context, and with a very specific goal in mind. So start by carefully considering what you want the admissions committee to know about you—with the goal of sharing as many different aspects of your life and personality as possible—and what it will already be able to learn through your other essays and the rest of your application (resume, recommendations/EQ endorsement, transcript, etc.). You want the admissions “reader” to take away something new from each image they see.

Your images do not need to be sequential, nor do they need to always include you. Consider photos of meaningful locations and people (or animals, even) in your life as well as inanimate objects, such as a musical instrument, a pair of running shoes, a home-cooked meal, or a blooming flower. As long as the subject of the image is reflective of who you are as an individual—and remember that you will have the accompanying sentence for each image to clarify this connection, as needed—then you will be on the right track. Keep in mind also that not all of your images need to be actual photos, either. They can include drawings, paintings, charts, tables, emojis, and so on. And finally, although getting accepted to your target business school and earning an MBA are serious goals and undertakings, this does not mean that all your images for this essay submission need to be serious in nature, especially if your personality is naturally more lighthearted and humorous. Costumes and comical arrangements, if used judiciously, can be valid options if, again, the resulting final image is truly reflective of your character and/or life.  

Your one-sentence captions are clearly an opportunity to enhance the meaning of each image you are submitting. In some cases, you might use the caption to provide a direct explanation of who or what is depicted in the image, chart, artistic expression, etc. You could also use the sentences to create a narrative link between multiple images, perhaps as a way of profoundly illustrating a particularly meaningful aspect of your life or personality. Another option would be to use the caption sentence to explain your state of mind in relation to the image or to express an associated viewpoint, value, or philosophy. As you write your short explanations, keep in mind that these statements must adhere to the school’s one-sentence rule, and be sure to not simply reiterate whatever is already obvious in/from the photo but to use the additional content to enhance the admissions reader’s understanding of you.  

This prompt from NYU Stern offers a lot of leeway, but take care not to get carried away with overly elaborate or complicated images. This is not an art contest or a battle of wits but an opportunity to express and portray yourself to the admissions committee. Each time you consider an image to include, come back to the central question of  Does this truly capture who I am?  If so, then proceed, but if not, stop and reconsider your options. An increasingly complex series of images that lacks the proper heart and meaning will not elicit the response you want!

Essay 3: Additional Information (optional)

Please provide any additional information that you would like to bring to the attention of the admissions committee. this may include current or past gaps in employment, further explanation of your undergraduate record or self-reported academic transcript(s), plans to retake the gmat, gre, executive assessment, ielts or toefl, or any other relevant information. (500 word maximum, double-spaced, 12-point font).

NYU Stern’s optional essay prompt is broader than most in that it does not demand that you discuss  only  problem areas in your candidacy, though the examples it offers within the prompt seem to imply a preference for these topics. Ultimately, this is your opportunity to address any lingering questions that an admissions officer might have about your profile— if you feel you need to . We caution you against simply trying to fill this space because you fear that not doing so would somehow count against you. And of course, however tempted you might be, this is not the place to reuse a strong essay you wrote for another school or to offer a few anecdotes you were unable to use in your other submissions. But if you are inclined to use this essay to emphasize or explain something that if omitted would render your application incomplete, write a very brief piece on this key aspect of your profile. For more guidance, download our free mbaMission Optional Essays Guide , in which we offer detailed advice on when and how to take advantage of the optional essay, with multiple examples, to help you mitigate any problem areas in your application.

The Next Step: Mastering Your NYU Stern Interview

Many MBA candidates find admissions interviews stressful and intimidating, but mastering this important element of the application process is definitely possible—the key is informed preparation. To help you reach this high level of preparation, we offer our free  Interview Guides . Claim your complimentary copy of the  NYU Stern Interview Guide   today!

2023-2024 Business School Essays MBA Essay Tips New York University (Stern)

Tags: business school essay MBA application essays NYU Stern optional essay Pick Six

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2023–2024 MBA Essay Tips

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• Yale University (School of Management)

2023-2024 NYU Stern MBA Essay Tips and Example Essays

Jun 19, 2023

• Who is Stern Looking for?
• How should I answer the essay question?
• Get into NYU Stern

UPDATE : This article was originally posted on August 14, 2020. It has been updated with new information and tips below. 

Located at the center of a major business hub and offering specialized 1-year programs in tech and fashion, NYU Stern is at the top of the list for a growing number of both US-based and international MBA applicants. 

However, with impressive recruiting statistics and its new Change: Studio program, the competition to join Stern’s elite MBA is more difficult than ever. 

That’s why we’ve prepared this guide to help you use your Stern essays to stand out. We’ve rounded up our best tips and links to NYU Stern MBA sample essays to ensure you give your Haas application your best shot. 

1. Who is Stern Looking for?

(Photo courtesy of @nyustern on Instagram)

“We look for people who share our values, and understand who we are and what we are about. EQ is something we have always looked for. We want people who want to be part of the NYC landscape, our urban advantage. We look for those with an understanding of what good business can do for society, not just looking at the bottom line.” Rabia Ahmed , Executive Director of Strategic Marketing and Admissions at NYU Stern School of Business

Every year, NYU Stern reviews thousands of applicants from outstanding professionals in order to determine who to admit to its class of around 320 full-time MBA students. With a strong emphasis on international and gender diversity, there is no “typical” NYU Stern student, yet the average student admitted to the Class of 2024 did have a 733 average GMAT score, 162V/163Q GRE score, and 5.0 years of full-time work experience .

Beyond the impressive statistics, though, Stern is looking for candidates who want to make a positive impact on the world through their careers. That’s why, in addition to strong academic performance (demonstrated through test scores and university grades), Stern seeks candidates who possess the following qualities:

If this sounds like a community in which you’d be right at home, you’ll first have to prove you’ve got what it takes by successfully answering Stern’s challenging admissions essay questions. 

2. How should I answer the essay question?

2.1. Short Answer Tips

Short Answer: Professional Aspirations

(150 word maximum, double-spaced, 12-point font)

What are your short-term career goals?

Like many other schools, NYU Stern has taken clear steps each year to make their application increasingly streamlined. 

This is important to keep in mind because Stern has deliberately been very clear about what they want here: short-term goals only . 

TOP TIP: If you’re not sure what your goals are, check out this post designed to help you think through this critical component of your application!

When discussing your goals , clarity is king, so make sure you include a job title and industry in your description of your post-MBA aspiration. 

However, goals without context can be a little confusing to decipher or understand (or they can just seem a bit lackluster). For example, a recent client initially started his essay by saying: 

“ I want to become a Business Development Director at a Brazilian company. ”

While interesting, it’s better to give a little bit of context to help these goals come to life. Check out the final version of the same essay’s introduction:

“In the 1970s, the phrase “think global, act local” came into use, suggesting that for the world to change, one must be active locally. With this mindset, I focused my career on Brazilian multinational companies to start creating global change at home. I now seek to take the next step to become a “glocal” leader by becoming Business Development Director at a Brazilian company.”

After clearly stating your goal ( and your motivations for having this goal ), we suggest you briefly touch on how Stern can help you achieve these goals, if you have space. This should not be a “laundry list” of 10 classes you found on the NYU site, nor a section in which you repeat clichés about the school. 

Instead, you should thoughtfully consider how you must grow personally and professionally to reach your stated short-term goal and what elements of NYU Stern (classes, faculty, clubs, etc.) will help you reach them. 

Ending your essay with a killer conclusion sentence to leave your reader with a strong image of your profile is the perfect wrap-up. 

Need more guidance? 

Our MBA Resource Center has dozens of NYU Stern MBA essays that worked to get our clients admitted to help you plan out a winning NYU Stern essay. Our library also includes guides for all top global MBA programs, detailed essay brainstorms, interview tips and mocks, CV templates, and recommendation letter guides. Click to join ! 

2.2. Essay 1 Tips

Essay 1: Change: _________ it

In today’s global business environment, the only constant is change. Using NYU Stern’s brand call to action, we want to know how you view change. Change: _____ it. 

Fill in the blank with a word of your choice. Why does this word resonate with you? How will you embrace your own personal tagline while at Stern? (350 word maximum, double-spaced, 12-point font) Examples:

• Change: Dare it.
• Change: Dream it.
• Change: Drive it.
• Change: Empower it.
• Change: Manifest it.
• Change: [Any word of your choice.]

One of the biggest mistakes we see for these more creative essays is that applicants tend to think of the catch-phrase or motto as being more important than the rest of the content of the essay. Here, though it is instrumental that you fully answer the prompt, you want to make sure to be highly strategic in how you tackle this question.

In that sense, we recommend that you first consider the rest of your application. In the other two (very short!) essays, your CV, and your Letters of Recommendation, what will the Stern Admissions Committee learn about you? Thinking about your personal brand , have you covered everything about your profile that makes you truly unique?

We then recommend that you compile a list of stories that you weren’t able to share elsewhere and filter these stories for those that have an element of change and that are truly meaningful to you. 

For example, last year, we worked with a client who advocated tirelessly for transgender rights, even leading a movement to change a biased law that provided healthcare to this population. Not only does an example like this show an important achievement that was deeply meaningful to the applicant, but it also featured a strong element of change. 

NYU Stern highly values emotional intelligence , and this essay prompt can be a great way to demonstrate that you possess this trait. 

On the other hand, the second part of the question means that you also need to choose a story that you can tie your engagement with the NYU Stern Community . So, while getting into a great college might have been an important moment for you that changed your trajectory, it might not be the best story to connect with Stern. Of course, there are always exceptions, but make sure you can convincingly tie the story you choose to Stern. 

After choosing your example, start to brainstorm the word you’ll use to complete the prompt (if you don’t use one of the phrases the admissions committee gives). Here, don’t aim to find a word that the AdCom has never heard of, just to try to stand out. Instead, choose an example that goes to the core of the change that drove the example you’re presenting (and why this type of change was important to you). For example, if we use the story about transgender rights above, the candidate might choose to write something like “Change: Demand it” or “Change: Fight for it” or even “Change: Ensure it benefits all.” There are no right or wrong answers here, but the best phrases will show a thoughtful, direct connection to your story. 

Of course, this essay is not complete without sharing how you expect to embrace your tagline while at Stern. In this part of the essay, you want to brainstorm ways that you can participate in and contribute to the Stern community. 

This question requires you to complete extensive research on the school , so make sure you give yourself ample time to explore the website, talk to current students and alumni, attend a few webinars, check out Stern’s YouTube and Instagram accounts, and, if possible, visit campus. I would then suggest you think of 3-4 ways you can put your slogan into action. These can range from clubs to specific initiatives to how you plan to connect with others on campus through study groups and other activities. 

Of course, end your essay with a killer conclusion statement that ties it all together and that aligns with your tagline! 

2.3. Essay 2 Tips

Describe yourself to the Admissions Committee and to your future classmates using six images and corresponding captions. Your uploaded PDF should contain all of the following elements:

• A brief introduction or overview of your “Pick Six” (no more than 3 sentences).
• Six images that help illustrate who you are.
• A one-sentence caption for each of the six images that helps explain why they were selected and are significant to you.

Note: Your visuals may include photos, infographics, drawings, or any other images that best describe you. Your document must be uploaded as a single PDF. The essay cannot be sent in physical form or be linked to a website.

For many years, MBA applications have focused on your CV and your goals to get a very concrete picture of what you bring to the table as an applicant. In recent years, however, we’ve seen a greater move towards questions that get to know the person behind the accomplishments . This is exactly the mission of this essay, which NYU Stern has retained as part of its application for the past several years. 

However, given the extremely open format of this essay, applicants often find themselves panicking when starting to craft their NYU Stern essays. We’re here to tell you that this essay can actually be a very enjoyable experience that highlights your creativity and unique life story! 

When starting out, we recommend that you first think back to your personal brand and the list of achievements and life experiences you compiled during this process. Now, thinking about the fact that you have already had the chance to highlight aspects of your career in the goals essay, what do you believe is still important to include in your application in order to convey the full picture of what you could contribute to the Stern community?

Though you might be tempted to target funny or quirky elements of your profile, we suggest you think more strategically about what NYU Stern is looking for in a candidate and how each image and caption you choose will work to demonstrate your fit with their program. 

For example, perhaps you have a long track record of giving back to the community and want to share a photo from one of your volunteer projects. Or, perhaps you conducted a project in a foreign country and want to share an image of a meeting or cultural event you attended while there and how this encounter shaped your mindset. 

You can also choose to include one or two “lighter” photos that demonstrate interests and hobbies you have actively pursued but make sure these add value. Showing off a meal you ate at a fancy restaurant (unless perhaps you’re like our client Martha and have a thriving food blog with 100k+ subscribers), won’t do much to prove you’re an interesting, dynamic, well-rounded addition to the NYU Stern class. 

After selecting the stories/images you want to use, it’s time to craft your captions. Though you may be tempted to quickly write a description of the photo, remember that the caption is where you are able to demonstrate what you want the admissions committee to learn about you . Since you are limited to a single sentence for each image, concision is key, but make sure that the sentence clearly articulates the experience/value/achievement you want to convey. 

For example, last year, our client Kelsey used a photograph of newspaper article on her handball team’s championship win. Her caption brought in what this meant to her in terms of developing her leadership style, stating: “My first ever leadership position has a huge space in my heart: being captain of my handball team taught me not only the power of commitment, discipline, and teamwork but also of having the sharp emotional intelligence to face my most challenging opponent – myself.”

This is an excellent caption, in our opinion, as it demonstrates a connection with NYU’s focus on emotional intelligence, demonstrates a relevant leadership insight, and includes the right measure of creativity by using a sports metaphor directly linked to her photo.

Top tip: though you can choose to use photographs for all 6 images, things like charts, PowerPoint slides, paintings, drawings, etc. are all fair game. 

2.4. Optional Essay Tips

Please provide any additional information that you would like to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee. This may include current or past gaps in employment, further explanation of your undergraduate record or self-reported academic transcript(s), plans to retake the GMAT, GRE, Executive Assessment, IELTS or TOEFL, or any other relevant information. (250 word maximum, double-spaced, 12-point font)

This is not a place for you to retell your life story or sum up your interest in Stern or need for an MBA. It is also not a place to copy and paste a strong essay you wrote for another school. Make sure you focus only on weak spots and also discuss what steps you have taken or took to rectify the weaknesses. 

Find additional tips and tricks to help you master the optional essay here . 

Looking for NYU Stern MBA essay examples? Check out our real sample essays that got our clients admitted here .

3. Get into NYU Stern

Landing a spot at NYU Stern is no easy task. You’ve spent years building a track record of professional success, dedicated yourself to getting a good GMAT score, and carefully developed your application strategy . 

Now is the time to make sure your accomplishments truly shine, and the only way to do so is to write a clear, compelling admissions essay. 

Ellin Lolis Consulting began with one mission: provide the best possible service to our clients and get them the best possible results . Serving our customers is at the core of our company, and we know that applying for an MBA can be a difficult, long process, but our goal is to take away as much of the stress as possible by acting as your ally in the process. 

So if you need much more than just a few comments on your essay but instead want focused help shaping how you present your life’s greatest hits to one of the world’s toughest critics , you can count on us. 

Our tailored approach was critical to helping our client Marilia secure a spot at NYU Stern with a full scholarship. 

Our editing service focuses on helping you determine how to present yourself in your NYU Stern essay while using appropriate, impact-driven language and adequate storytelling techniques. 

That’s why 98.9% of our clients secure admissions to at least one of their target schools . 

Get in touch and let our award-winning team of writers and storytellers help you make an unforgettable first impression. 

4. Deadlines

The deadlines for the 2023-2024 season are below. You can access the NYU Stern application here . 

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MBA Essays: NYU STERN Sample Essays & Writing Tips

MBA & Beyond Team

22/12/2023 | 9:09 pm

Welcome to our guide on NYU Stern MBA Essays! Applying for an MBA at NYU Stern is a significant step towards advancing your career, and your essays are key to making a compelling case for admission. In this concise yet informative guide, we’ll provide you with sample essays and essential tips to help you craft standout essays tailored specifically for NYU Stern’s application process. Let’s dive in and explore how you can effectively showcase your unique qualities and aspirations to secure your spot in this prestigious program.

ESSAY 1: PROFESSIONAL ASPIRATIONS

Embarking on an MBA is a significant step in your career, and NYU Stern wants to hear all about your plans. So, what are your short-term career goals? This question may seem straightforward, but it’s your golden ticket to show the admissions committee why NYU Stern is the ideal launchpad for your dreams.

KEY ELEMENTS TO INCLUDE for NYU STERN MBA ESSAYS

• Specificity is Key: Be clear about your desired role and the industry you aim to enter post-MBA. Numbers and facts play a big role here. For instance, if you’re eyeing a role in management consulting, mention the kind of projects or sectors you want to delve into.
• Link to Stern: Why NYU? Maybe it’s their top-ranked Finance program or their impressive network in the tech industry. Whatever it is, make it clear how Stern aligns with your goals.
• Short and Sweet: With a 150-word limit, precision is your friend. Every word should drive home why you’re a perfect fit for Stern and why Stern is perfect for you.

EXPERT TIP:

Did you know that NYU Stern’s MBA program has a robust offering in areas like Fintech and Luxury & Retail? Tailoring your goals to these unique strengths can showcase your fit and research.

ESSAY 2: PERSONAL EXPRESSION (PICK SIX)

This one’s my personal favorite – the “Pick Six” essay. Think of it as a blank canvas to paint a vivid picture of who you are beyond your resume. You get to choose six images that represent your passions, life experiences, and dreams. But remember, it’s not just about the pictures; the captions are where you bring your story to life.

CRAFTING YOUR PICK SIX:

• Diverse Imagery: Mix it up! Your images could range from a snapshot of a volunteering experience to a prized personal achievement. This is your chance to showcase the breadth of your personality.
• Meaningful Captions: Each caption is a chance to give context to the image. What’s the story behind that picture of you crossing the marathon finish line? Use these snippets to give depth to your narrative.
• Reflect Your Values: Are you passionate about sustainability or women’s leadership? Let your images reflect these values. Remember, authenticity is key.

WHAT MAKES A GREAT PICK SIX?

Let’s look at an example. Imagine you choose a photo of a bustling street market in Bangkok. A simple caption like, “Exploring global markets, understanding diverse consumer behaviors – a step towards my dream of a career in international marketing,” ties your personal experience to your professional aspirations.

ESSAY 3: BEHAVIORAL ESSAY – EMBRACING CHANGE

“Change: _____ it.” This intriguing prompt from NYU Stern’s MBA application is not just about your take on change; it’s a window into how you adapt, innovate, and lead in a dynamic world. Let’s decode it together!

UNPACKING THE PROMPT:

• Personalizing ‘Change’: This is where you fill in the blank with a word that embodies your approach to change. Are you someone who ‘drives’ change or ’embraces’ it? Your choice of word is a powerful indicator of your mindset.
• Illustrating with Examples: Use real-life instances to show how you’ve lived this mantra. Did you lead a project that required swift adaptation? Or perhaps you initiated a change that had a significant impact?
• Word Limit Wisdom: With a 350-word limit, your narrative needs to be crisp and engaging. Focus on one or two compelling examples rather than trying to cover too much ground.

WHY THIS MATTERS:

NYU Stern values candidates who can thrive in an ever-changing global landscape. This essay is your chance to prove that you’re not just prepared for change – you’re ready to be a catalyst for it.

OPTIONAL ESSAY: PROVIDING ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This section of the application might seem optional, but it’s a hidden gem for those who use it wisely. Here’s where you can address any part of your profile that needs more context – maybe a gap in your resume, a unique life circumstance, or additional insight into your academic record.

WHEN TO USE THE OPTIONAL ESSAY:

• Clarifying Gaps: If there’s a gap in your employment or education, explain it. But remember, this isn’t about making excuses; it’s about providing clarity.
• Academic Anomalies: Had a rough semester? Use this space to give context but also to show how you’ve grown from the experience.
• Extra Achievements: Got something impressive that didn’t fit into other essays? This is your place to shine.

CRAFTING YOUR RESPONSE:

• Be Direct: Get to the point quickly. The admissions committee appreciates brevity and directness.
• Stay Positive: Focus on the lessons learned or skills gained, even from challenging experiences.
• Word Limit: With a maximum of 250 words, every sentence must add value to your overall narrative.

WRITING TIPS AND BEST PRACTICES

Crafting an essay for an MBA application, especially for a prestigious institution like NYU Stern, isn’t just about answering questions. It’s about telling a story – your unique story. Here are some essential tips to make your essays stand out:

STRUCTURE AND CLARITY:

• Opening Strong: Your first sentence sets the tone. Make it engaging and indicative of what’s to come.
• Clear Structure: Organize your thoughts. Use headings or bullet points if necessary to enhance readability.
• Conciseness is Key: Be succinct. Respect word limits and don’t wander off-topic.

SHOWCASING PERSONALITY:

• Authentic Voice: Write like you speak (within the bounds of formal language). Let your personality shine through.
• Unique Insights: What makes you, you? Maybe it’s your multicultural background or an unconventional career path.

BACKING WITH DATA:

• Quantify Achievements: Use numbers to give weight to your accomplishments. Increased sales by 30%? Say it!
• Facts from Trusted Sources: Cite NYU Stern’s official website or reputable publications for any external data.

COMMON PITFALLS TO AVOID:

• Repetition: Don’t rehash your resume. The essay is an opportunity to show more than what’s on paper.
• Overcomplicating: Simplicity is powerful. Avoid jargon or overly complex language.
• Negativity: Even when discussing challenges, focus on growth and learning, not on blame or regret.

FINAL THOUGHTS AND CONCLUSION

Crafting standout NYU Stern MBA essays is a journey of self-discovery and articulation. By staying true to yourself “NYU Stern MBA Essays,” you can effectively convey your unique qualities and aspirations to the admissions committee. With dedication and the insights shared in this guide, you’re well-equipped to make a compelling case for your admission to NYU Stern’s prestigious MBA program. Now, go forth and let your words pave the way to your future success!

LEAVING A LASTING IMPRESSION:

• Reflective Tone: Conclude with a reflective note on what attending NYU Stern means to you and your future.
• Future Orientation: Talk about how you envision contributing to the Stern community and beyond.

ENCOURAGEMENT AND MOTIVATION:

• You’ve Got This! Writing essays can be daunting, but view it as an opportunity to introspect and articulate your journey and dreams.
• Seek Feedback: Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback from mentors or peers. Fresh perspectives can be invaluable.

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NYU Stern MBA Essay Examples

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Yale MBA Essay Samples

We asked the NYU experts on our Stacy Blackman Consulting team, “What does NYU Stern Admissions look for?” They advised, “Excellence across academics, professional including depth of work experience and interpersonal: humility, leadership, and communication.”

SBC has several former NYU MBA Admissions Officer on our team. We know the nuances of applying to NYU Stern successfully. If you’d like to speak with one of our Principals about your candidacy, please request a free analysis here.

In the meantime, please see sample NYU Stern MBA application essays here from past successful Stern admits.

At the end of the Vietnam War, my parents, like most Vietnamese refugees, fled to America to escape communism. Similar to the political climate today, there was hostility towards the influx of immigrants. There are stories about how the Vietnamese started bringing egg rolls to their new neighbors in hopes of building a bridge between cultures. In my family, food has always been a unifying force. In a culture that is emotionally reserved, food is how my family expresses love and how we connect when words aren’t enough. Food greatly influences how I view the world, and its ability to bring understanding and acceptance is why I want to devote myself to that space.

Although I have always had an affinity for food, I never considered opportunities in that sector. After graduating with a business degree, I pursued finance at X. My responsibilities include performing analysis and finding innovative solutions to cut costs. Although I have a significant impact on X’s fiscal health, I became fascinated with finding ways to increase revenue rather than decreasing expenses. When I was chosen for the X Program, we built a new customer platform, and I saw how changing the design and user experience of the website shifted consumer interaction. I became interested in consumer motivation and how that leads to purchase decisions. Earning an MBA would allow me to pivot into marketing and pursue a brand management career.

After business school, I plan to work as an Associate Brand Manager for a CPG company in the sustainable food space because loving food is preserving it. I would love to work for Beyond Meat or Impossible Foods or bigger corporations transitioning to sustainable alternatives like XXX or YYY. The experience I will gain can eventually transfer and benefit smaller businesses. Long-term, I hope to start my own company specializing in marketing for sustainable restaurants. I want to change the way people eat and think about their food, and marketing sustainability as sexy will be my way of impacting the world.

Visiting Stern, I connected with so many diverse applicants willing to share their advice and experiences, which speaks to the people Stern attracts and the sense of community NYU instills. At Women’s Weekend, I met two panelists that pivoted from finance to marketing and gushed about the caliber of Stern’s marketing professors like AAA BBB who is a thought leader within the industry. I’m excited to join clubs at Stern like the “Social Entrepreneurship in Sustainable Food Business” and “Marketing Association” and continue to build on current organizations I work with like X. Living in X, I know Stern’s location presents endless opportunities, and my experience will be heightened by accessibility to the prominent speakers and businesses that come through NYU’s doors. The combination of Stern’s unique emphasis on EQ and community, fearless embracement of change, leadership in marketing research, and the connectedness of being in the most influential city in the world is why Stern is my school of choice.

“America is living in spin.” After watching the movie “Thank You for Smoking,” I knew what I wanted to do with my life: not become a lobbyist, but be the brains behind influencing consumers. Following graduation I joined Prophet to gain first-hand experience in understanding consumers.

At Prophet I have held four positions and worked with the world’s biggest CPG firms. I have learned about the research that develops marketing strategies, the need for dynamic approaches to compete, and the importance of relationships in forwarding initiatives. While I have learned so much, I desire to be closer to the products. I crave the ownership and execution that comes with brand management and am seeking a new challenge to push me beyond my comfort zone of analytics and recommendations. My ultimate desire is to be the CMO for a CPG company such as Unilever or L’Oréal. To attain this leadership position I hope to join the company following graduation as an assistant brand manager. An MBA is a prerequisite to this transition, and I am ready to shift my career. I have gained a thorough understanding of the CPG industry from Prophet, now I must broaden my business acumen, strengthen my global perspective, and hone my marketing and leadership skills to drive my career forward.

While an MBA is a prerequisite to my goals, I am seeking more than an MBA. I specifically want the Stern MBA as it uniquely provides academic rigor and a collaborative culture, all while being at the center of the bustling, cutting-edge environment that is New York City.

I first learned about Stern through Brenda Smith (Stern MBA ’99 alum) whom I consider both a mentor and an inspiration. Brenda is the type of leader that I hope to be: devoted to her team, engaged with her clients, and constantly seeking growth. In discussing my desire to obtain my MBA, Brenda shone light on her experience, opening my eyes to the natural fit that Stern would be for me. Brenda stressed Stern’s strong mix of both analytical and interpersonal learnings that guided the development of her leadership style; this instantly piqued my interest, and as I have researched further, I have become increasingly excited about Stern’s Leadership Development Initiative. I look forward to taking Leadership Models and practicing these classroom learnings in Leadership Simulations to refine my approach. I plan to apply these models in extracurricular pursuits such as leading the Graduate Marketing Association, which would allow me to continue refining the leadership tactics that will serve my pursuit of CMO.

Having spoken with Stern recruiters at the Forte Forum and the MBA Women’s Joint Discussion, I was energized as they spoke about the diversity of opportunity available at Stern. MBA fairs were yet another moment where I recognized that Stern would be the best fit for me. I value that Stern invests in a diverse set of specializations; I would like to specialize in Marketing, Product Management, and Global Business as I believe this unique combination would prepare me to one day run a multi-national consumer goods organization. My online research also opened my eyes to Stern’s distinctive course set, which illustrates to me that studying marketing at Stern is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity. Unique classes like Luke William’s Creativity will train me to apply distinctive messaging to my branding endeavors, allowing me to thrive within brand management. In addition to the diversity of academic experience, Stern offers countless opportunities outside the classroom, which too will broaden my business acumen. Located in the world’s business hub, I want to capitalize on Stern’s unique connection to New York companies – the opportunity to intern at firms such as L’Oréal during the academic year would provide me with the insider knowledge needed to thrive at these corporations in the future. As strong as Stern’s connection is to NYC, my research also indicated that Stern’s networks expand far beyond New York; I want to take advantage of Stern’s HEC exchange program where I can experience foreign luxury branding and expand my international perspective.

Each opportunity that Stern provides is a stepping stone of development toward my ultimate goal of CMO, and I am ready for this next step. As I’ve taken the time to research, I have come to the resolute decision that Stern is unlike other MBAs – providing unique specializations, thorough leadership development, and year-round connections to the world’s leading businesses. Stern is the best MBA program for me, and is undoubtedly my top choice.

When I began researching my MBA, the first place I looked was the NYU Stern website. I was immediately drawn to the flexible first-year curriculum, the ability to choose preferred courses from the menu core, and the extensive options under the Marketing specialty. I talked with David Dune (‘16) regarding the Firm & Markets core and believe this will be especially helpful for the various pricing projects I’ll face in brand management. I also spoke with Karen Riley (’15), founder of Stern’s Hospitality Club, and learned that Professor Serdai’s Luxury Marketing presents many issues and challenges that apply to hospitality industries – my industry goal after graduation. Learning from her experience as an architect, and how to provide a space that provides both comfort and relaxation to consumers, will aid me in applying this knowledge to a hotel or airline company.

At the Forte Foundation in Dallas, I spoke with Laura Berk, Admissions Coordinator, regarding the Stern Career Development Center. As the hospitality industry does not recruit heavily on campuses, Laura helped ease my concerns, informing me that close to 50% of students work with career services to secure positions outside of on-campus events. Lastly, I spoke with Jamie Smith (’14) and he emphasized the connection among students and the collaborative nature of the Stern campus.

Ultimately, through my conversations with current students, alumni and staff, I know that Stern’s strong curriculum, combined with its collaborative environment and career management support, will be the perfect program to reach my career goals.

Sports have always been an integral part of my life. At the age of four I began playing soccer, and captivated by the skill and teamwork the game required, I progressed up the ranks through high school where I traveled the country playing for a nationally ranked team. My affinity for soccer helped me learn that sports matter beyond wins and losses, teaching me accountability, determination and resilience. Sports even helped in a broader context when my four cousins moved in with us after a family tragedy. Initially full of grief, we bonded over soccer after my dad installed a net in our backyard. I always knew I wanted to make sports an important component of my life, and this interest led me to the Notre Dame where I studied Sport Management and held internships with the Chicago Bears and sports marketing agency, Octagon.

After graduation, working at Comcast as an Account Executive, I learned how to effectively communicate with clients, problem solve, and develop and maintain relationships. Next, to build upon what I learned at Comcast I accepted an offer from entertainment marketing firm, Talented, where I took on increased responsibility and learned to fuse client objectives with communications principles. Here, I quickly earned a promotion to manage the company’s relationships with brand and agency partners, and grow those relationships to increase billings and exposure.

Through my experiences, I have learned a great deal about sales and implementing marketing and public relations programs, but I now desire to move to the marketing and strategy side of business. I have long had an interest in the intersection of marketing and sport/entertainment, and have observed how brands can market their products utilizing these mediums to reach and connect with passionate fans, helping to transfer that passion into affinity for, and loyalty to the brands. I am interested in developing how companies create that brand preference and loyalty.

My long-term goal is to lead a sport/entertainment marketing firm, such as IMG, where I will guide Fortune 500 companies on a sport/entertainment marketing strategy, including how to best achieve marketing objectives, grow brands and develop their business. To make this transition, I need an MBA combined with a post-MBA brand management position with a company that has a stake in the ~$500 billion global sport/entertainment business, such as PepsiCo or AB InBev. There, I will learn to solve the marketing and business challenges faced by a major sports industry stakeholder. In this role I will also learn in depth about consumer product companies, improve my leadership skills, and expand my network. An MBA from Stern is the best means to achieve my goals.

I have taken a number of steps to ensure that Stern is the best program for me. After thoroughly researching online and visiting in April 2014, I gained an understanding of the people, curriculum and facilities that make Stern unique. A General Management MBA with specializations in Marketing, Management and Strategy would prepare me for a brand management position, based on my conversation with Graduate Marketing Association Co-President, Jamie Smith (’14). Jamie also introduced me to Professors Scott Galloway’s Brand Strategy and Al Lieberman’s Business of Sport Marketing classes, which are perfect starting points for me to learn about the strategic side of sports marketing. Speaking with Tom Brady (’14), who, like me, came from an account role with a fast-growing marketing agency, I learned about the Entertainment, Media & Technology Association, which has relationships with Verizon and the NBA. I intend on taking a leadership role in the EMTA, which would benefit my transition into sports-focused brand management. I learned about the strength of the Office of Career Development from Emma Smith (’15), who spent her summer at Miller Coors with a global marketing internship. She spoke of GMA’s outstanding relationships with PepsiCo, Unilever and others, and how the OCD helped her every step of the way.

Everyone I have encountered on my numerous visits and interactions gave me a positive feeling about Stern’s culture. Students mentioned participating in clubs such as the Stern Culture Club, and collaborating on school and career work. I walked away knowing that Stern’s curriculum is perfectly suited for my interests, and that I would also fit well into the active and collaborative culture which Stern breeds outside of the classroom. For all these reasons, after becoming intimately familiar with Stern and its opportunities, I can confidently say the Stern MBA program is the ideal school for me.

There are many career paths that fulfill my ultimate goal of making a positive difference in the lives of children—but two appeal to me most. The first is to climb the ranks of a child-focused nonprofit, such as March of Dimes or Ronald McDonald House, from Marketing Manager to CEO. Using the network developed at Stern, I will leverage my marketing background, social impact focus and acquired business acumen to obtain a summer internship, resulting in a Marketing Manager role upon graduation. Effectively bolstering year-round volunteer advocacy, growing grass roots initiatives and building event fundraising platforms, I will aspire to grow into the role of VP of Marketing and eventually CEO.

While I intend to follow this first path, I am excited to search out new solutions to social problems. Should I uncover an innovative and executable resolution to a youth issue, I would be eager to launch my own nonprofit or social enterprise—much like Jane Smith (’12) and John Jones (’12) have done with their development of a special vitamin to reduce calcium deficiency among Asian women.

I believe both paths clearly relate Stern’s mission, as on both I will use 21st century technology to solve age-old problems—such as how to increase fundraising and strengthen community ties. For example, social media are often underused tools for generating donations and maintaining steady communication with supporters. However, since neither tools nor challenges remain static, I will continue to seek out and apply evolving solutions to maximize results.

Also relating to Stern’s mission, as either a nonprofit manager or an entrepreneur, I will be challenged by the ambiguity and uncertain terms of operating a socially-driven business. In both roles, I will embrace a broad perspective of viewpoints in appealing to a wide base of donors or investors. As a nonprofit manager, I will appeal to employees’ commitment to the mission, leveraging passion as a higher currency, to motivate without monetary incentives. As an entrepreneur, I will be challenged to create a compelling and actionable vision to spark support from backers.

Working for an existing nonprofit appears to be the more fluid and clear career transition, as it has an existing framework. Here I will achieve and exceed established goals, and network with coworkers to climb the existing ladder. However, which path I take will be determined by where I can provide the greatest impact.

If I devise a new solution that provides greater significant change for children, I am likely to spring into action to fill that void. However, I would not establish a new organization for the sake of being entrepreneurial—rather, only if I had a unique approach to an unmet need. Also, to launch a new social venture, I will need the support of others already established in the nonprofit community. As my professional experience in this area is currently limited, I may need to first prove myself before branching out on my own. Ultimately, these two paths may not be mutually exclusive, but rather intertwined.

SBC’s star-studded consultant team is unparalleled. Our clients benefit from current intelligence that we receive from the former MBA Admissions Officers from Wharton, Columbia CBS and every elite business program in the US and Europe.  These MBA Admissions Officers have chosen to work exclusively with SBC.

Just two of the many superstars on the SBC team: Meet Anthony , who served as the Associate Director of MBA Admissions at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, where he dedicated over 10 years of expertise.

Meet Erin , who has over seven years of experience working across major institutions, including University of Pennsylvania, Columbia Business School, and NYU’s Stern School of Business.

Tap into this inside knowledge for your MBA applications by requesting a consultation .

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