Columbia MBA application requires four to five essay responses. Below is a compilation of MBA sample essays for Columbia MBA 2023 application cycle.
Columbia MBA Deadlines
2024 intake
13 September, 2023 (Jan & Aug 2024 Intake)
3 January 2024 (Aug 2024 Intake)
03 Apr 2024 (Aug 2024 Intake)
Columbia MBA Short Answer Question:
What is your immediate post-MBA professional goal?
MBA Sample Essay:
My immediate post-MBA professional goal is to secure a position as a management consultant at a top-tier consulting firm. I am particularly interested in working at a firm that has a strong focus on strategy and business transformation, as I believe that these areas are where I can make the greatest impact and utilize my skills and expertise to the fullest extent. I am drawn to a career in management consulting because I believe that it offers a unique opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients and industries and to be a part of a team that is dedicated to solving complex business challenges and driving positive change. I am excited to have the opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in the industry, and I am confident that the skills and knowledge I will gain as an MBA student will prepare me to be a valuable contributor to a consulting team. Overall, I believe that a career in management consulting will provide me with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the business world and to continue learning and growing as a professional. I am excited to pursue this career path and to use my skills and expertise to drive positive change for my clients and organizations.
MBA Sample Essays:
Essay 1 Columbia MBA: Through your resume and recommendation, we have a clear sense of your professional path to date. What are your career goals over the next three to five years and what is your long-term dream job?
As a current marketing manager at a Fortune 500 company, my short-term career goals over the next three to five years include continuing to advance within my current organization and expanding my skills and responsibilities. I am particularly interested in exploring new areas of marketing, such as digital and social media marketing, and want to take on more leadership roles within the company. In the long term, my dream job is to become a Chief Marketing Officer at a multinational corporation. I am also committed to staying up-to-date with the latest marketing trends and technologies and believe that an MBA will provide me with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this role. To achieve these goals, I am seeking an MBA from a top-tier business school like [Name of School]. I believe that the program's focus on experiential learning and real-world case studies will provide me with the practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in my career. Additionally, the program's strong alumni network and access to industry leaders will be invaluable in helping me to achieve my long-term career goals.
Essay 2 Columbia MBA:
Why do you feel Columbia Business School is a good fit for you academically, culturally, and professionally?
MBA Essay sample:
There are several reasons why I feel that Columbia Business School would be an ideal fit for me in terms of academics, culture, and professional development. Specifically, I am particularly attracted to the school's emphasis on experiential learning and the use of real-world case studies as part of its curriculum. I believe that this approach will provide me with the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in my career. I am also attracted to the school's diverse course offerings and the opportunity to customize my MBA through the elective curriculum. Culturally, I appreciate the school's diverse and international community. As someone who has lived and worked in several different countries, I value the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with individuals from different backgrounds and cultures. I also believe that the school's location in the heart of New York City, one of the world's leading financial and business hubs, will provide endless opportunities for networking and professional development. I believe that the connections and mentorship opportunities offered by the school will be invaluable in helping me to achieve my long-term career goals. I am also drawn to the school's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, values that align with my own personal and professional goals. I am confident that the school's rigorous and immersive MBA program will provide me with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in my career.
Essay 3 Columbia MBA:
Tell us about your favorite book, movie, or song and why it resonates with you.
MBA Essay Sample:
My favorite book is "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho. What I love about this book is that it encourages the reader to follow their dreams and pursue their passions no matter what obstacles may come their way. It also emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the power of positive thinking. These are lessons that I try to apply in my own life, and reading "The Alchemist" always serves as a reminder to stay true to myself and never give up on my dreams. Another reason that this book resonates with me is because it explores themes of self-discovery and personal growth. Santiago's journey is not just about achieving his external goals, but also about learning more about himself and his own capabilities. This is something that I believe is important for everyone, and reading "The Alchemist" helps me to reflect on my own personal growth and development. Overall, "The Alchemist" is a powerful and inspiring story that has had a lasting impact on me and continues to resonate with me to this day.
Deferred Enrollment Program Columbia MBA:
Essay Question 1
Why are you interested in obtaining a Columbia MBA in the future?
MBA Essay Sample:
As a dedicated and ambitious professional, I have always been driven to excel in my career and make a meaningful impact in the business world. Over the past several years, I have gained valuable experience in my field, but I have also come to realize that there is always more to learn and ways to improve. The prestige and reputation of Columbia Business School make it a top choice for those seeking to further their education and career prospects. The world-class faculty, diverse student body, and rigorous curriculum all offer unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth. The various experiential learning programs, such as the Value Investing Program and the Global Business Experience, provide hands-on opportunities to apply what is learned in the classroom to real business challenges. This practical approach is exactly what I am seeking in an MBA program, as it will allow me to immediately apply my newfound knowledge and skills to my career. Furthermore, the strong alumni network and wide range of partnerships with leading companies make Columbia an ideal place to build my professional network and secure the right opportunities for my future. Overall, I am confident that a Columbia MBA will provide me with the knowledge, skills, and network needed to take my career to the next level and make a meaningful impact in the business world. I am excited about the opportunities and challenges that the program will bring, and I am eager to be a part of the Columbia community."
Question 2 Deferred Enrollment Program Columbia Essay
Who is a leader you admire, and why?
MBA Essay Sample:
One leader that I admire is Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft. I have long been impressed by Nadella's ability to navigate the constantly evolving technology industry and drive innovation at a company as large and established as Microsoft. He has actively worked to foster a culture of diversity and inclusivity at Microsoft, recognizing that these values are essential to the company's success. He has also been vocal about the importance of empathy in leadership, believing that it helps leaders understand and connect with their teams and customers. In addition to his focus on empathy and inclusivity, Nadella is also known for his strategic vision and ability to adapt to change. Under his leadership, Microsoft has made significant shifts in its business model, including the transition to a cloud-first, mobile-first focus and the acquisition of LinkedIn. Overall, I admire Nadella's ability to lead with empathy and adaptability, and I believe these qualities make him a valuable role model for any leader.
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