UCLA, which is based in Los Angeles, has a large alumni network that spans the whole southern California region. California's economy is broad, encompassing businesses such as real estate, health care, technology, and media and entertainment, of course. Anderson's MBA class is intimate and small. As a result, your UCLA MBA application should reflect your personality. Before beginning the UCLA series of essays, review Anderson's values:
Share Success, Think Fearlessly, Drive Change
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UCLA Anderson Essay #1
How have recent events influenced the impact you would like to make in your community, career, or both? (250 words maximum)
We welcome reflection on any events that influenced you in your personal or professional lives, or in society in general, and look forward to learning about specific ways you want to leave your mark.
A lot of change has occurred in recent years in terms of social norms. Increased diversity, equality, and inclusion in institutions ranging from companies to social movements. In addition, the global health problem has not abated. A change in your goals could have been caused by any of these occurrences.
Consider the impact you hope to have in the world in light of Anderson's ideals. The core ideals are "Share Success, Think Without Fear, and Drive Change." When thinking about the rest of your life, how do you see yourself incorporating these principles? The UCLA MBA application essay you are writing should reflect both your professional and personal interests. Consider both your work and your coworkers.
If you're having trouble deciding how to organize this essay, think about telling one or two key stories about yourself. Keep in mind that UCLA is looking for what sets you apart from other applicants. Anderson is curious to know more about your principles and beliefs as well. Reflect on the moments during the past year that caused you to pause and think.
Questions to stimulate thought: Have you had a rough patch in your life recently? Where do you come from? Do you have any experience living in a country other than your own? When was a time when you had to make a pivotal choice or when you felt like you were at a turning point in your career? Which of your accomplishments are you most pleased with? How long has it been since you participated in a collective project? Have there been any occurrences in the recent year that surprised, angered, or startled you?
Be both practical and aspirational in describing the change you hope to bring about in your organization or neighborhood. Give an overview of your plans for the near future, for example once you graduate. Then, explain your long-term goals and how you plan to achieve them. Your future steps should follow logically from your past experiences and your time at UCLA Anderson.
UCLA Anderson Optional Essay
Are there any extenuating circumstances in your profile about which the admissions committee should be aware? (250 words maximum)
To be clear, the essay prompts that are presented are completely voluntary. Unless there are special circumstances, your response is not required. Reasons for penning this piece include, but are not limited to, a lack of relevant work experience. Low test scores or no recommendation from an existing supervisor can also play a role.
Make this essay as easy to understand and read as you can. First, give a brief summary of the issue. In the following paragraphs, detail the positive developments that have taken place. Finally, explanations should be prioritized over excuses.
Showing that you have overcome obstacles is a key component of strong MBA application essays for UCLA. Therefore, the fact that your life has improved is a strong argument in your favor.
For Reapplicants
Applicants who have applied to the MBA program in the last two years are called "re-applicants." Those who have applied three years ago or more are called "new applicants." Reapplicants must add any new test scores, career changes, or other changes that have happened since their last application.
Reapplicants to UCLA Anderson may respond to one or both of the essay questions. However, reapplicants must present updates. These upgrades may also represent improvements to your application. As a result, consider what may have changed since your last application. Consider how you'd like to tell Anderson about it. These essays are perfect for describing a shift in your goals or perspectives. If your changes, on the other hand, are more quantitative, the application will suffice.
UCLA Anderson Application Deadlines for 2023:
Round 1: October 5, 2022
Round 2: January 4, 2023
Round 3: April 12, 2023
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