Note: The 1-1 interview is required for the Executive MBA program application.
Prompt: At Texas McCombs, we do things a little differently. We embrace those who take the initiative and forge new paths. What ambitious goal or change do you aim to achieve with an MBA, and why is Texas McCombs your ideal launch pad? (250 words maximum)
In this essay, you will tell them about a short-term and/or long-term post-MBA goal that you have set for yourself that goes beyond more money or a better career for yourself. You should describe a mission goal. In other words, how do you hope to positively impact your organization, your industry, and/or your community?
McCombs tells you directly that this goal should be something you are willing to start yourself (“take initiative and forge new paths”).
Because this is the Executive MBA, McCombs typically prefers to see how this goal will realistically fit with your professional career and a current or future role, either in the short-term (while you are in the EMBA program) or in the long-term (5, 10, and/or 15 years).
The focus of this essay will be primarily on explaining your mission goal, and less on the Why McCombs component.
I suggest that you add something that proves how well you have gotten to know the school. I am not suggesting that you just list the elements of the EMBA program back to the Admissions Committee but that you do focus on how you will benefit from the program in the pursuit of your professional goals. You are showing that you understand the value of the Texas EMBA.
Below are some possibilities to explore in answering Why McCombs. Because roughly 100 words will not allow you discuss them all, select 1-2 that are most important to you. Again, don't just tell them what parts of the EMBA program are most valuable to you, tell them why those elements will help you further your individual goals.
Which of the above best connects with your mission goal? Again, focus on 1-2.
Prompt: Here, you are what's next. At this pivotal crossroads where you’re deciding your future path, the Texas McCombs MBA experience will equip you with the tools and mindset to make “what’s next” happen in your career.
Please share unique qualities you possess that highlight your potential to shake up the status quo in your professional life. (250 words maximum)
"Use this prompt to showcase your self-awareness and leadership potential. Highlight experiences or qualities that set you apart and indicate your capacity for innovation in your field." - McCombs Admissions Blog
In this essay, you are describing yourself and your unique qualities. The qualities that McCombs seek are those that show you are willing to use your MBA to actively "shake up" your professional life. In other words, you do not have a passive attitude towards your own future career, and you are not expecting the MBA to magically improve your career without action on your own part.
I believe that McCombs is also asking what you will be contributing as a future student to the McCombs community. So, the emphasis is on unique. What are you bringing that is different than other executive MBA students in the class?
Prompt: The University of Texas at Austin’s motto, "What starts here changes the world," embodies a spirit of impact and transformation.
What fuels your drive to lead change and make your mark in the world? (250 words maximum)
This essay should be connected to your mission goal. What is the story behind your mission? What fuels your drive?
McCombs is not only trying to find out more about why you feel driven to pursue a particular goal, but also what is most important to you. They are looking to better understand your personality and which aspects of your background are driving you to make your mark.
"You can discuss your identity, upbringing, core values, formative experiences, obstacles you’ve overcome, special talents/interests, etc." - McCombs Admissions Blog
In case it is not obvious, they are seeking people who are hungry for success, not people who are checking off a career box.
Prompt: Please provide any additional information you believe is important or address any areas of concern that you believe will be beneficial to MBA Admissions in considering your application (e.g. gaps in work experience, choice of recommender, academic performance, or extenuating personal circumstances). If living outside of the metro area that the program is held in, please provide an explanation regarding your plans to commute or relocate to the program location. (250 words)
Use to address:
Use this essay to turn a potential weakness into a strength. Tell the Admissions Committee what happened and why it happened. Be honest in your self-evaluation. Most importantly, tell them what you have learned from the negative experience, and how this learning has influenced future actions.
All Executive MBA applicants are required to complete both the Video Assessment and the MBA Interview.
Given all applicants will complete the Video Assessment, MBA candidates will have increased accessibility to the application process and the opportunity to share their story with us in their own voice. Through the Video Assessment, the Admissions Committee will have a chance to experience the “real” you, beyond a resume, test scores, and transcripts.
Applicants will be asked to use the video assessment tool to record responses to 4 questions, with each response lasting no more than 180 seconds each. Detailed instructions will be provided with the video assessment invitation so you know what to expect.
The video assessment will help the admissions committee evaluate your career goals and the competencies that are crucial for the fit and success of our students within the program and their future careers.
McCombs provides the following additional information:
I provide you with practice questions, and you will practice the Three Minute Response.