Hanna Renaldi's Blog: EMBA-Global Application Essay Tips & Deadlines

The Global EMBA has 2 program options: EMBA-Global Americas & Europe which combines the strengths of Columbia University and London Business School; and EMBA-Global Asia, with Columbia University, London Business School, and Hong Kong University Business School.

Of course, all EMBA applications are in part about “fit.” The Global EMBA is too – just more so. This adcom really focuses on fit, because the program is so intense. And the concept of “global leader” is a critical part of that fit. How to demonstrate it will be unique to each applicant; ensure that your essays reflect your own mindset and vision of global leadership. In addition, the culture of the programs features a high degree of entrepreneurial energy, so entrepreneurship-related qualities like fresh thinking and initiative will also enhance fit.

These adcoms also look for applicants who truly understand and will make productive use of this distinctive educational opportunity, which comprises multiple campuses and schools, each with its own distinct focus and areas of excellence.

The three essay questions vary in approach, requiring you to present yourself effectively from different angles to create a holistic picture. There’s a classic goals essay, a “story” (behavioral) essay, and an open statement. The challenge is to employ a consistent individual voice while adapting it to the various essay types.

Essay Questions:

Essay 1.

For EMBA Global-Americas & Europe: Why do you wish to participate in the EMBA-Global programme? What do you hope to experience and how will participation in this programme help you to achieve your objectives? (maximum 500 words)

For EMBA Global-Asia: Why do you wish to participate in the EMBA-Global Asia programme? What do you hope to experience and how will participation in this programme help you to achieve your objectives? (maximum 500 words)

Here’s that goals question. First a note about the nuance of the question: notice the words “wish,” “hope,” “experience,” and “participate/participation.” These words imply an immersive, personal, community-minded, collaborative orientation. In the essay (and indeed throughout the application), show how you fit with this culture and these values.

Structure: I’ve found that it’s intuitive and logical to start the essay by discussing your goals – the objectives noted at the very end of the question. And indicate what motivates them. You can then naturally move into what you hope to experience from the program, because your professional goals create your needs for the program. This part can (indeed should) include a personal component as well. To address participation, discuss elements beyond the classroom where you will learn and contribute, such as clubs, social interactions, etc.

Essay 2. Please describe a situation either work or personal where you faced a particular challenge. What was the outcome and what did you learn from the experience about your own strengths and personal development needs? (maximum 500 words)

This is the “story” essay I referred to in the introduction. Approach it as you would relate an interesting experience to a friend or acquaintance – straightforward narration with some expression of your feelings and/or thoughts at key points in the narrative. I suggest selecting a topic that’s relatively recent. Make it a situation with some significant stakes, and one that yielded meaningful insight, growth, and change.

Structure: Jump right into the story. Avoid preambles that give away the ending! This approach grips the reader and frees up space for detail, which will keep the reader engaged and let her get to know you more through the story. As you walk through what happened, highlight your actions and weave in those thoughts and feelings. Conclude with a short paragraph reflecting on what you learned about your strengths and development needs.

Personal statement: Please tell us about yourself and your background. How do you embody the characteristics of a future global leader? The objective of this statement is to get a sense who you are, rather than what you have achieved professionally. (maximum 500 words)

First, think. Selecting content is not easy when faced with such an open question. There is no one formula that will work for everyone. Some people might most effectively focus on aspects of their cultural milieu and its formative influence on their values and perspective. Others might focus on pivotal experiences during university, others yet on influential role model(s) or relationships. Many people will appropriately discuss more than one topic.

The adcom knows that the every leader on the world stage will uniquely manifest the qualities that make him/her a “global leader.” So rather than trying to fit your experiences to the concept of global leader, work from the other direction: start with your experiences and elucidate how they will help you develop into a unique global leader.

If you would like professional guidance with your EMBA-Global application, check out Accepted’s MBA essay editing and MBA admissions consulting or our MBA Application Packages, which include advising, editing, interview coaching, and a resume edit for the EMBA-Global application.

EMBA Global-Asia Deadlines:

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, within these deadline dates:

EMBA Global-Americas & Europe Deadlines:

***Disclaimer: Information is subject to change. Please check with individual programs to verify the essay questions, instructions and deadlines.***

Cindy Tokumitsu has advised hundreds of successful applicants, helping them gain acceptance to top MBA and EMBA programs in her 15+ years with Accepted. She would love to help you too. Want Cindy to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• Excellent Executive MBA Admissions Advice, a podcast episode
• 3 Tips for Writing a Winning EMBA Essay
• EMBA Interview Tips You Need to Get Accepted