Congratulations to some, Don't lose hope to others..

It is always mixed emotions for us when decisions go out.  Kellogg and Booth released their Round 1 decisions this week, and while we are thrilled to have represented so many successful candidates at both these schools this year, our hearts go out to the folks that weren't accepted.

Congratulations to those who have been accepted, and to those who have been waitlisted or denied, don't lose hope, there's still a few schools (and other rounds) to go.

And for those waiting for Wharton, HBS, and other schools next week, sit tight and good luck :-)  Our fingers are crossed for you too!

Yes, working through the holidays! :)

We receive at least 2 or 3 emails a day from readers asking if we will be reviewing essays through the holidays - yes, we will be, and we will be honoring all of our turnaround times as well.

Good luck with the writing!

Chicago Booth Powerpoint Essay - Slide Presentation

For some reason, this essay question is a PITA (pain-in-the-a) for all candidates.  Most don't have powerpoint skills, and the ones who do (consultants?) are never happy with what they end up with.  So, here are some tips to help you out: 

• Lots of pictures.  The whole point of being given the allowance to send in a PDF or PPT is that you can be creative and include pictures of you doing things, instead of writing about it. We strongly recommend including at least 5 - 8 pictures in the deck. 

• Creative art / cartoons:  Candidates often complain about not having enough pictures that are presentable.  Then mock it up!  Use a creative illustrator and create some art that can showcase the fun side of you. 

• Required: Fun!  This essay is supposed to be mostly addressed to your future classmates.  Please reserve your professional accomplishments for your written essays, and use this one to show your fun side.  If you don't have a fun side (ahem), at least display your personal attributes - pictures of your family, of you growing up, doing silly things, etc.  Good way to show that you can laugh at yourself!

• Themes: If you are completely out of ideas, use a theme that defines you for each page.  E.g., "Family Man", "Adventurer", "Researcher", "Athlete", etc. 

• Tell a story!  The easiest thing to understand is a chronological story, from when you grew up to where you are now.  An easy format that has been leveraged nicely by many candidates. 

• Other ideas: "day in my life", flash card format, letter format, etc. 

Good luck!


(Update on 12/16: Congratulations to everyone who has been accepted into Booth in Round 1!   We are so thrilled to have worked with some of you) ;)

Hello Round 2 Early birds!

The Round 2 essays are rolling in fast and furious - kudos to you earlybirds!  For those who are still a few drafts away from a final version, worry not!  We are working through the holidays this year, as every year, and will be accepting essays for review throughout the holiday season.

Good luck with the writing!