Why "Safe" Choices Lead to Dings: 3 Common Mistakes That Kill MBA Applications

Over the years, I've reviewed thousands of MBA applications – including many that weren't successful. The candidates who get dinged aren't necessarily less qualified – often, they're the ones who played it too safe.

Here are the three "safe" choices to steer clear of:

1. Picking the "right" career goals

"Post-MBA, I want to be an MBB consultant."

I can't count how many times I've seen this exact career goal – hundreds, maybe? Top MBA programs see it thousands of times each round. Recently, I spoke with a candidate who had an incredible background in an emerging field, yet she told me she wanted to pursue consulting "because... that's what MBAs do."

This approach isn't going to cut it. There's absolutely nothing wrong with consulting if it genuinely aligns with your interests and career trajectory. However, if MBB isn't a real passion, your candidacy may hit a wall. Admissions committees can tell when you're faking it.

2. Hiding your "weird" or unconventional background

I once reviewed an essay from a former semi-pro athlete who spent every paragraph explaining his "analytical skills" from his current consulting role. He never mentioned sports – not even once!

I think that this was a massive missed opportunity. Your unconventional background isn't a weakness to overcome; it could be your true competitive advantage.

Before my MBA, I came from the entertainment industry. Initially, I thought this would be a liability. Instead, I discovered that understanding audiences and storytelling was exactly what I needed as a product marketer. The skills that made me different were the ones that made me valuable.

Own what makes you different.

3. Writing what you think schools want to hear

Avoid generic statements like these:

• "I want to learn from diverse perspectives"
• "The case method will transform my thinking"
• "Your alumni network is unparalleled"

Yawn – top MBA programs already know this. You're wasting precious word count!

Instead, try something specific: "I've already talked to Professor Mollick about my AI startup idea. His framework for evaluating emerging tech is exactly what I need."

One approach shows that you can use Google or ChatGPT – congrats. The other demonstrates genuine engagement with and interest in the program.

Playing it safe is actually risky

When 400 aspiring consultants apply to a program like Booth, will the admissions committee remember the 401st cookie-cutter application? Probably not.

However, when you dig deep and share your authentic passions, unique background, self-awareness, and genuine intentions, you can create something memorable. You give the admissions committee something to discuss, debate, and remember.

That's how you get in.

The most successful MBA applications aren't the safest ones – they're the most authentic ones. Stop trying to be what you think the admissions committee wants, and start being who you actually are!

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