This analysis examines the essay prompts for the Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management's MBA program for the 2024-2025 admissions season. Detailed analyses for other leading MBA programs and general essay tips are also available to help you craft your admissions essays.
 

Essay 1: "Intentionality is a key aspect of what makes our graduates successful Kellogg leaders. Help us understand your journey by articulating your motivations for pursuing an MBA, the specific goals you aim to achieve, and why you believe now is the right moment. Moreover, share why you feel Kellogg is best suited to serve as a catalyst for your career aspirations and what you will contribute to our community of lifelong learners during your time here. (450 words)"
 

Kellogg asks candidates to explain their motivations for pursuing an MBA and their specific career goals, emphasizing the importance of Intentionality. Applicants should outline their immediate post-MBA career objectives and long-term aspirations, explaining how an MBA from Kellogg will help bridge the gap between their current skill set and future goals. For example, if your goal is to transition from a technical role to a strategic management position, detail how Kellogg's curriculum, with courses like "Strategic Management" or "Leadership in Organizations," will equip you with the necessary skills.
 

Applicants should also discuss what they will contribute to Kellogg. This could include involvement in clubs, organizing events, or other activities that enhance the Kellogg community. For instance, if you have a background in consumer goods, consider how you might manage a related conference or bring in industry speakers to share insights with fellow students. Demonstrating a balance between personal growth and community contribution is crucial.
 

Additionally, it is essential to show a strong understanding of Kellogg's unique offerings. Research the school's curriculum, special programs, and extracurricular activities. Engage with alums or current students to gain insights and reflect these in your essay. For example, if you're interested in entrepreneurship, mention the Zell Fellows Program and how it aligns with your career goals.
 

Essay 2: "Kellogg leaders are primed to tackle challenges everywhere, from the boardroom to their neighborhoods. Describe a specific professional experience where you had to make a difficult decision. Reflecting on this experience, identify the values that guided your decision-making process and how it impacted your leadership style. (450 words)"
 

This prompt asks candidates to recount a leadership experience involving a difficult decision. Choose an example highlighting your ability to lead and the values guiding your decision. For instance, if you led a project that required balancing client expectations with internal capabilities, describe the challenges, your decision-making process, and the outcome.
 

A structured approach can be effective, such as the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Start by outlining the situation and the stakeholders involved. Then, describe the task—what you needed to accomplish and your challenges. Detail your actions and rationale behind them, emphasizing the values that guided your decisions. Conclude with the results, highlighting the positive outcomes and the impact on your leadership style.
 

Reflect on how this experience has shaped your leadership approach and prepared you to contribute to the Kellogg community. For example, discuss how managing a diverse team has enhanced your ability to foster collaboration and drive results, qualities you would bring to Kellogg.
 

Video Essays: Kellogg's video essays provide an opportunity to showcase your personality and experiences. The video component includes three questions designed to reveal the person behind the application.
 

-Submission Deadline: Video essays are due 96 hours after the application deadline.
-Technical Requirements: An internet-connected computer with a webcam and microphone.
-Duration: Approximately 20-25 minutes, including setup.
-Access: Available through the Application Status Page after submitting your application and payment.
 

These video essays allow the admissions committee to understand your personality and communication skills. Review our admissions tip on video essays to be authentic and prepared.
 

Additional Information: "Whether you want to explain gaps in work experience, your choice of recommenders, inconsistent or questionable academic performance, or something else, you can use this section to briefly tell us anything we need to know about your application. (280 words)"
 

This section is to address any potential red flags in your application. Be concise and straightforward, acknowledging the issue without making excuses. Provide context where necessary and highlight other strengths that may compensate for the weakness. For example, if you have a gap in your work experience, explain why and how you used that time productively.
 

By thoughtfully addressing these areas, you can present a well-rounded and compelling application to the Kellogg School of Management.