Columbia Business School’s MBA application includes a video essay as the second part of their essay requirements. This video essay asks candidates to introduce themselves and respond to a short prompt in a 2-3 minute video format. While a video response differs notably from a traditional written essay, Columbia continues to seek out diverse, authentic, and compelling perspectives through this unique medium.
The Purpose of the Video Essay
The video essay aims to give admissions reviewers a more well-rounded sense of who applicants are beyond just what can be conveyed on paper. Rather than merely seeing words on a page, reviewers can observe an applicant’s communication skills, personality, and presence through a video. How candidates carry themselves, speak to the camera with confidence and clarity, and engage the viewer can reveal important soft skills and character traits not detectable through static essays alone.
Columbia also wants to push applicants out of their comfort zones and see how they handle an unfamiliar medium. Successfully completing a video response under time constraints demonstrates adaptability, comfort with public speaking, and ability to think on one’s feet—all valuable skills in business school and beyond. While daunting for some, the video essay format levels the playing field by putting all candidates in a similar novel situation rather than advantage those with extensive writing experience.
Developing a Strong Video Essay Response
To stand out in their video essay, candidates should thoughtfully address all prompts while showcasing their authentic personality. Here are some best practices to consider when crafting an impactful 2-3 minute video response:
Carefully read the short prompt provided and customize your response specifically to it rather than giving a generic introduction. Address the themes or questions posed rather than just talking about yourself.
Keep an engaging, conversational tone by directing your remarks to the reviewer as if speaking with them directly rather than just reciting a memorized script. Smile, maintain eye contact with the camera, and use hand gestures naturally.
Limit background noise and distractions by filming in a quiet, well-lit space free from interruptions. Test your recording setup beforehand and ensure your face, hands, and any materials you reference are clearly visible.
Have a short outline prepared of key points to cover within the time limit but don’t read from prepared notes. Speak extemporaneously for a natural flow. Practice and time yourself to stay within 2-3 minutes.
Highlight 2-3 of your most defining and relevant experiences, accomplishments, or attributes that show your fit and motivation for business school. Provide concrete examples and stories to bring these to life rather than vague statements.
Display confidence through poised body language, well-paced speech, and steady eye contact even if you get nervous. Taking a few deep breaths before hitting record can help reduce anxiety.
End with a concise reiteration of why you’re excited about Columbia’s program and how you hope to contribute uniquely as a student. Thank the reviewer for their consideration and leave them with a positive impression.
Some potential prompts candidates may encounter and could tailor their response to include:
Introduce yourself and tell us about experiences that have shaped who you are today
Discuss your career goals and how Columbia’s program will help you achieve them
How have you demonstrated leadership skills in the past? What leadership roles are you seeking in business school?
What unique perspectives or strengths would you contribute to Columbia’s classroom and campus discussions?
What is one challenge you’ve faced and overcome in your personal or professional life?
Authenticity, confidence, and genuine responses are key – reviewers want to get a true sense of candidates as individuals beyond just their resumes or written essays. With practice and by addressing all elements of the prompt, applicants can craft compelling video introductions that showcase their best qualities and reasons for a place in Columbia’s incoming class.