Writing a compelling introduction is one of the most important parts of crafting an outstanding MBA essay. The introduction leaves a first impression on the admissions committee and sets the stage for the rest of your response, so it requires careful thought and planning. Rather than jumping straight into the prompt, your intro should draw readers in and make them want to learn more about you and your reasons for pursuing an MBA. With that in mind, here are some key aspects to focus on when crafting your MBA essay introduction:
Grab Attention Right Away
The first few sentences are absolutely crucial, as they will determine whether or not an admissions officer keeps reading. You want to pique their curiosity right off the bat with an interesting statement, statistic, quote, or anecdote that relates to your background or motivation for business school. Avoid generic or predictable openings like “I am passionate about business” or stating what program you are applying to. Show a glimpse of your unique story or perspective to capture attention immediately.
For example, one applicant opened with “As the grandson of Cambodian immigrants who survived the Khmer Rouge genocide, I have always been inspired by the resilience of the human spirit against tremendous adversity.” This attention-grabbing lead provided context as to how his background shaped his drive for change. Another talked about facilitating discussions on disruptive technologies with global leaders at the World Economic Forum in a way that made the reader want to learn more about his experience and perspective.
Clearly State Your Goals and Fit for the Program
Without rambling, succinctly convey why you want an MBA and how the specific program aligns with helping you achieve your goals. Connect your background and what you hope to gain from the educational experience. Some things to address include your academic/career interests, possible post-MBA industry/function, relevant skills or accomplishments, and how the school’s resources and culture would support your development. You should make it clear why you—with your unique mix of experiences, skills and career aspirations—are a strong match for that particular program.
For instance, an applicant aiming for technology entrepreneurship mentioned past roles designing innovative mobile products and wanting to leverage the program’s startup incubation resources and network of venture capitalists. Another pursuing a career in sustainable business emphasized experience leading green initiatives and the school’s renowned focus on social/environmental impact. Both statements connected the dots between the applicants’ goals and strengths and how the programs would fit them.
Transition to Your Story
Once your goals and motivation are established, use a transitional statement to segue into sharing the story that brought you to this point in your journey. Something as simple as “It was through my background in X that I developed a passion for Y” can smoothly lead into giving context and depth around formative experiences, challenges you’ve overcome, or people/situations that shaped your interests and perspective.
Try to keep the introductory story concise yet compelling enough to make the reader want to learn more in the body of your essay. For example, one candidate wrote of escaping civil war as a child and experiencing poverty that fueled his drive to build economic opportunities in developing nations. Another discussed balancing cultural expectations with a nontraditional career path in finance after growing up as part of a small business-owning immigrant family. Both brief introductions effectively set up more detailed stories to come.
End on a Strong Note of Enthusiasm
Conclude by re-emphasizing your fit and enthusiasm for the program, leaving the reader wanting to continue learning about you as an applicant. Promise to expand on your story and goals in the body of the essay. Express your commitment to contributing unique value and benefiting fully from all the school has to offer. One applicant closed by saying “I look forward to sharing further how my background has prepared me to be an engaged and impactful member of the [name] MBA community.” Another ended on a passion note: “I am eager to leverage this prestigious program to make my vision of social change through business a reality.”
By crafting a compelling introduction focusing on grabbing attention, clearly conveying your goals and fit, providing context through your story, and ending strongly, you set yourself up to make the most positive first impression possible. With careful attention to structure and flow, your MBA essay intro can successfully introduce your distinct background and reasons for pursing an advanced business degree in a memorable way. Remember that a great application story is a journey, so guide readers smoothly along that path from your very first sentence.