usc marshall sample essays

MBA Admissions
ISB Admissions
MBA Application Tips
MBA Essay Tips
Business Schools

2024-2025 USC Marshall MBA Essay Tips and Analysis

Admit expert.

August 31, 2024

The USC Marshall MBA program is known for its emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and global leadership. For the 2025 admissions cycle, applicants are tasked with presenting their career goals and personal qualities through a series of essay prompts. These prompts offer candidates the chance to demonstrate their unique perspectives, professional aspirations, and readiness for the Marshall community. This article provides a detailed analysis, strategic tips, and a winning framework for approaching each of the USC Marshall MBA essay prompts, helping you craft a compelling and memorable application.

USC Marshall MBA Essay Analysis and Tips

USC Marshall MBA Essay Prompts

Essay #1 (Required) – What is your specific, immediate short-term career goal upon completion of your MBA? Please include an intended position, function, and industry in your response. (word limit: 100)
Essay #2 (Required) – Please draft a letter that begins with “Dear Admissions Committee” This letter is meant to be your personal statement that provides the Admissions Committee with an understanding of your candidacy for Marshall beyond what is evident in other parts of your application. This essay is purposely open-ended. You are free to express yourself in whatever way you see fit. Our goal is to have an appreciation for and an understanding of each candidate in ways that are not captured by test scores, grades, and resumes. (word limit: 600)
Essay #3 (Optional) Please provide any additional information you would like the admissions committee to consider. (word limit: 250)

Essay #1: Career Goals

What is your specific, immediate short-term career goal upon completion of your MBA? Please include an intended position, function, and industry in your response. (word limit: 100)

What admissions committee seeks

The first essay prompt asks, “What is your specific, immediate short-term career goal upon completion of your MBA? Please include an intended position, function, and industry in your response.” This prompt is designed to gauge your clarity of purpose and alignment with the Marshall MBA program’s objectives. The admissions committee is looking for:

Specificity : They want to see a clear and concise articulation of your career aspirations, including the exact position, function, and industry you aim to enter post-MBA.
Realism : Your goals should be achievable and reflect a logical progression from your previous experiences to your future ambitions.
Alignment with the MBA program : The committee seeks to understand how the USC Marshall MBA will help you achieve these goals, indicating that you have thought critically about your decision to pursue this degree.

How to write this essay

To effectively craft your response, consider the following steps:

Be concise : With a strict word limit of 100 words, every word counts. Focus on the essentials of your career goal without unnecessary elaboration.
Use clear language : Avoid jargon and complex terminology. Instead, use straightforward language that clearly communicates your intended career path.
Connect your past and future : Briefly mention how your previous experiences have shaped your career aspirations and how the MBA will facilitate your transition into the desired role.
Revise for clarity : After drafting, ensure that your response is free of ambiguity and directly answers the prompt.

Essay #2: Personal Statement

Please draft a letter that begins with “Dear Admissions Committee” This letter is meant to be your personal statement that provides the Admissions Committee with an understanding of your candidacy for Marshall beyond what is evident in other parts of your application. This essay is purposely open-ended. You are free to express yourself in whatever way you see fit. Our goal is to have an appreciation for and an understanding of each candidate in ways that are not captured by test scores, grades, and resumes. (word limit: 600)

The second prompt invites you to draft a letter beginning with “Dear Admissions Committee.” This personal statement allows you to showcase aspects of your candidacy that are not evident in other parts of your application. The admissions committee is looking for:

Authenticity : They want to understand who you are beyond your academic and professional achievements. This is your chance to share personal stories, values, and motivations.
Depth of character : The committee seeks insights into your personality, interests, and how you will contribute to the USC Marshall community.
Cultural fit : They are interested in how well you understand and align with the values and culture of USC Marshall, including your potential contributions to the Trojan Family.

When drafting your personal statement, consider the following guidelines:

Start with a strong opening : Engage the reader from the beginning. A compelling anecdote or a thought-provoking statement can set the tone for your letter.
Be reflective : Use this opportunity to discuss significant experiences that have shaped your perspective and aspirations. Consider including challenges you’ve overcome or unique aspects of your background.
Connect your narrative to USC Marshall : Highlight specific aspects of the Marshall program that resonate with you. Mention any faculty members, clubs, or initiatives that align with your interests and goals.
Maintain a conversational tone : While this is a formal letter, it should feel personal and relatable. Avoid overly complex language and focus on conveying your genuine voice.
Edit and proofread : Given the 600-word limit, ensure you remain focused and concise. Edit for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy.

Essay #3: Additional Information

Please provide any additional information you would like the admissions committee to consider. (word limit: 250)

The optional essay prompt asks, “Please provide any additional information you would like the admissions committee to consider.” This essay is an opportunity for you to address any gaps in your application or share relevant information that may enhance your candidacy. The committee is looking for:

Contextual information : If there are any aspects of your application that require clarification (e.g., gaps in employment, lower grades), this is the place to explain them.
Additional accomplishments or experiences : If you have noteworthy achievements or experiences that were not covered in other parts of your application, this is your chance to highlight them.

To effectively utilize this optional essay, consider the following:

Be purposeful : Only include information that adds value to your application. Avoid repeating what is already covered in your resume or other essays.
Stay within the word limit : With a limit of 250 words, be succinct and focused. Clearly articulate your points without unnecessary elaboration.
Maintain a positive tone : If addressing challenges, frame them in a way that emphasizes your growth and resilience.
Conclude with a strong statement : End your essay on a positive note, reinforcing your enthusiasm for the USC Marshall MBA and your readiness to contribute to the program.

Final Thoughts

Crafting strong USC Marshall MBA essays is key to presenting a well-rounded and impactful application. By clearly articulating your short-term career goals and using the open-ended personal statement to reveal your personality, values, and motivations, you can create a powerful narrative that resonates with the admissions committee. Thoughtful, authentic responses will not only showcase your fit for the program but also highlight your potential as a future business leader. With careful preparation and strategic focus, you can submit essays that stand out and strengthen your candidacy.

Do you want to get into your dream business school?

Take the first step towards your MBA dream and schedule a free 1 on 1 application strategy call with us.

A Comprehensive Overview of ISB PGPYL

The Indian School of Business (ISB) has launched the Post Graduate Programme in Management for Young Leaders (PGPYL), a 20-month, full-time, residential MBA-equivalent program. Aimed at fresh graduates and early career professionals with 0 to 24 months of work experience, this program is designed to fast-track ambitious young individuals toward

Kenan Flagler MBA Essay Analysis and Tips

2024-2025 UNC Kenan Flagler MBA Essay Tips and Analysis

The UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA program is known for developing future business leaders with a strong commitment to making a positive impact. For the 2025 admissions, the essay prompts are designed to help applicants showcase their career goals, leadership potential, and unique qualities. This article offers an in-depth analysis, actionable tips,

2024-2025 Kelley MBA Essay Tips and Analysis

The Indiana Kelley MBA program is renowned for its focus on experiential learning and leadership development, attracting candidates with diverse backgrounds and ambitions. For the 2025 admissions, the essay prompts give applicants a chance to showcase their professional goals, personal reflections, and unique qualities. Crafting standout essays is crucial for

We are here to assist you!

Want to get in touch with us sooner?

Send us a mail [email protected]

USC Marshall MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Crafting compelling USC Marshall MBA essays is crucial for your application.

Posted March 1, 2024

Featuring Matt P.

Planning Your MBA Application

Starting friday, september 6.

12:00 AM UTC · 45 minutes

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on USC Marshall MBA essays. In this article, we will provide you with an overview of the application process, the role of essays, and share expert tips along with examples to help you craft compelling essays that stand out . Whether you are a prospective applicant or just curious about the USC Marshall MBA program, this guide is for you.

USC Marshall Application and the Role of Essays

When applying to the USC Marshall School of Business, one of the key components of your application is the essays. The essays play a crucial role in showcasing your personality, experiences, and aspirations to the admissions committee. Through these essays, the committee gets a deeper understanding of who you are beyond your academic and professional achievements.

As you sit down to write your essays, it's important to remember that this is your chance to make a lasting impression on the admissions committee. Take the time to reflect on your experiences and think about how they have shaped you as a person. What unique perspectives and insights do you bring to the table? How have your past experiences prepared you for success at USC Marshall?

One of the essay prompts asks you to describe a time when you faced a significant challenge and how you overcame it. This prompt provides an opportunity for you to showcase your resilience and problem-solving skills . Think about a time when you encountered a difficult situation, whether it was in your personal or professional life. How did you navigate through it? What strategies did you employ to overcome the challenge? Reflecting on these questions will help you craft a compelling essay that demonstrates your ability to overcome obstacles.

Another essay prompt asks you to discuss your short-term and long-term goals and how USC Marshall can help you achieve them. This is your chance to show the admissions committee that you have a clear vision for your future and that USC Marshall is an integral part of your plan. Research the various resources and opportunities that USC Marshall offers, such as internships, networking events, and alumni connections. How do these align with your goals? How will they contribute to your personal and professional growth?

Furthermore, it's important to remember that the essays are not just about showcasing your accomplishments; they are also an opportunity to reveal your values and passions . What drives you? What are you most passionate about? How do these passions align with the values and mission of USC Marshall? By delving into these questions, you can create an essay that not only highlights your achievements but also demonstrates your alignment with the values of the USC Marshall community.

In conclusion, the essays are a vital component of your USC Marshall application. They provide the admissions committee with a deeper understanding of who you are as an individual and what you can bring to the USC Marshall community. Take the time to reflect on your experiences, goals, and values, and use the essays as an opportunity to showcase your unique qualities. By crafting thoughtful and compelling essays, you can increase your chances of being admitted to USC Marshall and embarking on a transformative educational journey.

USC Marshall Essay Prompts (2023-2024)

For the 2023-2024 application cycle, USC Marshall has provided the following essay prompts:

"Describe why you are interested in pursuing an MBA at USC Marshall, and how will the USC Marshall MBA program help you achieve your short-term and long-term career goals?"
"Describe a time when you went beyond what was defined, established, or expected. Explain the impact this had and discuss the lessons you learned."
"Select one of these two topics: (A) A significant challenge you faced and the steps you took to address it. (B) An opportunity you identified and the actions you took to seize it. Describe the results and what you learned from the experience."
"Please provide any additional information that will enhance our understanding of your candidacy for the program."

Choosing to pursue an MBA is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. When contemplating why you are interested in pursuing an MBA at USC Marshall, it is essential to reflect on your career aspirations and how the program can help you achieve them. USC Marshall's MBA program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, equipping students with the skills necessary to excel in the business world.

By pursuing an MBA at USC Marshall, you will have access to a vast network of alumni and industry professionals who can provide valuable insights and connections. The program's emphasis on experiential learning through internships, consulting projects, and global immersion experiences will allow you to gain real-world experience and develop a global perspective.

Furthermore, USC Marshall's strong focus on entrepreneurship and innovation provides a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs. The Lloyd Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies offers resources and support to help students launch their own ventures and turn their ideas into successful businesses.

As you consider your short-term and long-term career goals, it is important to articulate how the USC Marshall MBA program aligns with your aspirations. Whether you aim to advance in your current industry or transition into a new field, USC Marshall's diverse faculty and industry connections can provide the guidance and mentorship necessary to achieve your goals.

The second essay prompt asks you to describe a time when you went beyond what was defined, established, or expected. This prompt provides an opportunity to showcase your initiative, creativity, and ability to think outside the box. Reflect on a situation where you took the initiative to challenge the status quo and make a significant impact.

Perhaps you were working on a team project and identified a more efficient process that improved productivity and saved time. Or maybe you took the lead on a community service initiative and exceeded the initial goals, positively impacting the lives of those involved. Whatever the scenario, be sure to highlight the lessons you learned from this experience and how it has shaped your approach to future challenges.

For the third essay prompt, you have the option to choose between two topics: a significant challenge you faced and the steps you took to address it, or an opportunity you identified and the actions you took to seize it. Whichever topic you choose, make sure to provide a detailed account of the situation, the actions you took, and the results you achieved.

If you decide to discuss a significant challenge, consider discussing how you overcame adversity, demonstrated resilience, and learned valuable lessons along the way. On the other hand, if you choose to explore an opportunity you identified, discuss how your proactive approach and strategic thinking led to positive outcomes. Reflect on the lessons you learned from this experience and how it has contributed to your personal and professional growth.

Lastly, the fourth essay prompt gives you the opportunity to provide any additional information that will enhance the understanding of your candidacy for the program. This is your chance to highlight any unique experiences, skills, or accomplishments that may not be captured in other parts of your application.

Consider discussing any leadership roles you have held, community involvement, or significant projects you have worked on. Additionally, if there are any extenuating circumstances or challenges you have faced that have impacted your academic or professional journey, this is the space to provide context and explain how you have overcome them.

Remember, the goal of this essay is to provide the admissions committee with a comprehensive understanding of your candidacy and what you can bring to the USC Marshall MBA program.

Free trial!

From 135 top coaches

Access a library of videos, templates, and examples curated by Leland’s top coaches.

Example essays.

Example Resumes

Application Prep

Video Courses

List of Expert Tips for Each Marshall Essay Prompt

Now, let's dive into some expert tips for each of the essay prompts:

Start by showcasing your passion for the USC Marshall MBA program and its unique offerings.
Connect your short-term and long-term career goals to what USC Marshall can provide.
Be specific in your aspirations and explain how USC Marshall aligns with them.
Choose a situation where you took the initiative to go beyond expectations.
Discuss the impact of your actions and the valuable lessons you learned.
Showcase your problem-solving skills and willingness to take calculated risks.
Select the topic that resonates with your experiences.
Clearly describe the challenge or opportunity and its significance.
Highlight the actions you took and the results achieved.
Reflect on the lessons learned and personal growth.
Use this essay to provide any additional information that enhances your candidacy.
Highlight relevant achievements, experiences, or circumstances.
Show how these aspects add value to your application.

MBA Essay Tips: How to Write Compelling Essays

Here are some general tips to help you craft compelling essays for your USC Marshall MBA application:

Start early to allow ample time for brainstorming, drafting, and revisions.
Understand the essay prompts thoroughly and answer them directly.
Show, don't just tell, by providing specific examples and anecdotes.
Be authentic and let your true voice shine through your writing.
Use a logical structure and ensure coherence throughout your essays.
Edit and proofread meticulously to eliminate any errors or typos.
Seek feedback from mentors, friends, or professionals to gain different perspectives.

USC Marshall Essay Examples From Success Admits — With Analysis

To further illustrate the application of the aforementioned tips, let's explore some successful USC Marshall essay examples:

Example 1 - Essay 1: [Provide Example Essay with Analysis]

Example 2 - Essay 2: [Provide Example Essay with Analysis]

Example 3 - Essay 3: [Provide Example Essay with Analysis]

Example 4 - Essay 4: [Provide Example Essay with Analysis]

USC Marshall Essay FAQs

To address any lingering questions you may have, we've compiled a list of commonly asked questions regarding USC Marshall MBA essays:

"How long should each essay be?" - Each essay should be around 500-700 words.
"Can I exceed the word limit?" - It's advisable to stick to the specified word limit for each essay.
"Should I use bullet points or paragraphs?" - Use paragraphs to maintain a cohesive narrative in your essays.
"Are there any specific formatting requirements?" - Follow the application instructions for formatting guidelines.

In conclusion, the USC Marshall MBA essays are an integral part of the application process. By carefully crafting your essays using our expert tips and analyzing successful examples, you can submit a compelling application that showcases your unique qualities and aspirations. Good luck with your USC Marshall MBA journey!

Browse hundreds of expert coaches

Leland coaches have helped thousands of people achieve their goals. A dedicated mentor can make all the difference.

Browse Related Articles

March 1, 2024

UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Get ready to ace your UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA application with this comprehensive essay guide.

March 2, 2024

Georgetown McDonough MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Looking to ace your Georgetown McDonough MBA essays? Our comprehensive guide provides an overview, valuable tips, and real examples to help you craft compelling and impactful essays that will set you apart from the competition.

UW Foster MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Learn everything you need to know about writing impactful UW Foster MBA essays with our comprehensive guide.

Berkeley Haas MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Looking to ace your Berkeley Haas MBA application essays? Our comprehensive guide provides an overview of the essay prompts, valuable tips, and real examples to help you craft compelling and impactful responses.

UVA Darden MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Crafting compelling UVA Darden MBA essays can be a game-changer for your application.

Duke Fuqua MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Discover everything you need to know about crafting standout MBA essays for Duke Fuqua.

Dartmouth Tuck MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Learn how to craft compelling essays for your Dartmouth Tuck MBA application with this comprehensive guide.

Michigan Ross MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Uncover the essential insights and expert tips for crafting compelling Michigan Ross MBA essays with this comprehensive guide.

Yale SOM MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Looking to ace your Yale SOM MBA essays? Our comprehensive guide provides an overview of the application process, valuable tips, and real examples to help you craft compelling and standout essays that can secure your spot at Yale School of Management..

CMU Tepper MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Looking to ace your CMU Tepper MBA application essays? Our comprehensive guide offers an overview, valuable tips, and real examples to help you craft compelling and impactful responses.

UT Austin McCombs MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Looking to ace your UT Austin McCombs MBA application? Our comprehensive guide provides an overview, valuable tips, and real examples to help you craft compelling essays that stand out.

Indiana University Kelley MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Crafting compelling essays for your Indiana University Kelley MBA application? Our comprehensive guide provides an overview, valuable tips, and real essay examples to help you stand out and secure your spot in this prestigious program.

Menlo Coaching
Top MBA Programs
Admissions Essays
Apply to Work With Us

USC Marshall MBA Essays: Tips for 2024-2025

At Menlo Coaching, we noticed that most MBA essays will fall into one of a number of categories: personal essays, career goals essays, behavioral essays, etc. Read ahead for our expert guide on approaching these essays for USC Marshall School of Business.

Career Goals Essay

Essay #1 (Required) – What are your short-term and long-term career goals, and how will an MBA from USC Marshall help you achieve those goals? Short-term career goals should be those you want to achieve within 3-5 years post-MBA, whereas long-term goals may span a decade or more and encompass broader professional aspirations. (Upload file, 400 words maximum)

Teamwork Essay

Essay #2 (Required) – In the USC Marshall MBA Program, teamwork is essential to success. Please share an example of a time when you collaborated effectively with others to achieve a personal or professional goal. (Upload file, 400 words maximum)

Optional Essay

Essay #3 (Optional) – We realize that each person is more than a list of facts or pre-defined categories, and we’d like to recognize each individual’s unique qualities and experiences. Please use this space to share any additional information about yourself that cannot be found elsewhere in your application and that you would like the Admissions Committee to consider when reviewing your candidacy for the MBA program. (Upload file, 500 words maximum)

Applying to USC Marshall School of Business

USC Marshall is a prestigious business school with renowned faculty and a focus on academic success. USC wants to admit students who are intelligent, determined, and prepared to undertake a rigorous curriculum. Further, USC has a strong networking community especially in Los Angeles, known as the “Trojan family.” Thus, Marshall MBA graduates will have some aid in the community when trying to enter the job market. Applicants should pay attention to the specific requirements and expectations set out by USC’s admissions committee when writing USC MBA essays. Through these MBA essays, applicants have a chance to demonstrate their skills, accomplishments, and personal interests.

Marshall’s Career Goals Essay

The USC Marshall career goals essay provides applicants with a place to let the USC admissions committee know how the MBA program you want to attend will help you achieve your professional goals, including an intended position, function, and industry. This USC MBA essay is a great place to explain why USC is truly the best fit for you.

It is vital for USC applicants to have a solid plan for their post-MBA career aspirations. First and foremost, this is because USC wants its graduates to succeed. However, there are a few selfish motivations for the career goals essay, including the fact that USC wants to have an impressive employment report and produce graduates who will become donors someday. Further, the USC Marshall admissions committee wants to ensure that applicants have a career plan that plays on their past experiences and thus ensures success. They also want applicants with the foresight to develop an alternate career plan in case their first choice does not work out.

Other things to keep in mind for this essay is the necessity to have a career goal that is both ambitious and practical. Applicants should have meaningful goals that fit with what is offered at USC’s MBA program. Along this vein, networking is extremely important when preparing to write your career goals essay. The more you know about the program and how it can help you achieve your personal goals, the better.

Once you’ve completed your application, the optional UNC MBA essay gives you an additional opportunity to provide the AdCom with any additional information or clarity that you feel would enhance your application.

One trap that MBA applicants fall into is using the additional space provided by this essay to write on a whole new topic. However, this is not always the best idea.

You should only make use of this essay if you what you write will provide context to an element of your application to improve your candidacy—you don’t want to jeopardize your chances by adding unnecessary noise to your application.

Applicants to USC Marshall should pay close attention to the specific expectations for each type of USC MBA essay. USC Marshall also has an additional USC MBA essay option where applicants can provide any other information they would like the admissions committee to consider. Although it may be tempting to look up sample essays and draw from these formats, it is most important to let your personal background guide the construction of your USC MBA essays.

Menlo Coaching can help you throughout your MBA essay writing process, offering one-on-one MBA application support and exclusive materials.

USC Marshall MBA Program Overview
MBA Essay Tips From 3 Top Admissions Consultants
How to Get Into MBA Programs at Top Business Schools

Looking for Last-Minute Essay Help?

MBA Deadlines are fast approaching…

Did you know that Menlo Coaching can help you with your MBA essays on an hourly basis?

Our five-hour package starts at $2,500, and you can work with our MBA admissions consultants on anything you like, including:

✓ Essay and Resume Edits

✓ Recommender Support

✓ Application Form Reviews

✓ Interview Preparation

Which program are you applying to?

Accepted Admissions Blog

Everything you need to know to get Accepted

September 8, 2022

USC Marshall MBA Application Essay Tips & Deadlines [2022 – 2023]

Along with academic excellence, the USC Marshall MBA program is characterized by a powerful global network with special emphasis on the Pacific Rim, a close-knit and passionate community, and a strong regional presence. Your essays should show how you will both fit in and contribute to this dynamic environment, and the questions provide interesting opportunities to do so. Taken together, the questions indicate that the adcom wants to see both a clear, practical career focus and to understand the person behind those goals – that means they care about your perspective, your values, and your ability to synthesize and prioritize.

USC Marshall 2022-2023 MBA application essays

Marshall mba essay question #1.

What is your specific, immediate short-term career goal upon completion of your MBA? Please include an intended position, function, and industry in your response. (100 word maximum)

The question specifies the information to include in the essay. Although only 100 words, it is deemed an “essay” by the adcom, and that means you should do more than provide facts. An essay moves – it goes somewhere, it has a starting point and ending point. And you will have room for a little more than the bare facts, so compose your answer in a way that includes some motivation or vision for your short-term career goal; clarify what animates it. It may be just a sentence, even a phrase, but it can make all the difference. It will make this short piece of writing an essay – and will engage the reader.

Marshall MBA essay question #2

Please draft a letter that begins with “Dear Admissions Committee” (word limit: 600) . This letter is meant to be your personal statement that provides the Admissions Committee with an understanding of your candidacy for Marshall beyond what is evident in other parts of your application. This essay is purposely open-ended. You are free to express yourself in whatever way you see fit. Our goal is to have an appreciation for and an understanding of each candidate in ways that are not captured by test scores, grades, and resumes.

This essay question invites you to reveal and share something of yourself – and in doing so, you will necessarily reveal your perspective, what you value. After all, in deciding what to discuss and how to present it , you already, literally, are making a statement about these things!

As the question indicates, there is no one formula for making this essay great. The good news is, there are many ways to do so – as many ways potentially as there are applicants.

First, consider making most of the essay about non-work subjects – it’s a “personal statement.” There well may be work-related aspects that warrant discussing, but it should not be about the work issues as much as what they show about you as a person. And it’s fine not to discuss work at all if you’ve got other good things to talk about!

Possible topics to consider are formative experiences, cultural influences, interests and passions (community, religious, sports, artistic, hobbies, political….), etc. I’ve seen essays of this type work that discuss two or three things, or even just one – but more than three and you risk creating a “too much stuff” blur. Be thoughtful and selective and, to a certain extent, strategic – by this last point I mean show the adcom new, relevant, and interesting aspects of you; I don’t mean trying too hard to impress the adcom by striving for topics that are superficially dramatic or exotic. Have the confidence to dig into your real life even if it may seem mundane – I recently edited a great basketball essay that vividly portrayed the applicant’s deep insight, humanity, individuality, and resourcefulness. I have no doubt the adcom that reads it will be moved and unable to put it down. That leads to my last point: don’t just relate facts; have something to say about them – show a point of view, vision, insight.

Marshall MBA essay question #3

Please provide any additional information you would like the admissions committee to consider. (250 word maximum)

This question allows you to both discuss points that will enhance your application and explain anything that needs explaining (e.g., gap in employment, choice of recommender, a dip in grades ). For the former, if you ask the adcom to read additional material, make sure that it truly illuminates and is germane to your candidacy – since you have the personal statement to work with, do not present material that could more appropriately be addressed there.

For expert guidance with your USC Marshall MBA application, check out Accepted’s MBA Application Packages , which include comprehensive guidance from an experienced admissions consultant. We’ve helped hundreds of applicants get accepted to top MBA programs and look forward to helping you too!

USC Marshall 2022-2023 MBA application deadlines

Round 1	October 15, 2022
Round 2	January 5, 2023
Round 3	March 1, 2023
Round 4	April 15, 2023
Round 5	Rolling Admissions*

*Applications received after April 15, 2023 will be considered on a space-available basis.

Source: USC Marshall website

Top MBA Program Essay Questions: How to Answer them right!

Related Resources:

Why MBA , a free guide
Life at USC Marshall as a Future Investment Banker , an MBA student interview
USC Marshall’s Kellee Scott: Don’t Be Rigid, Boring or Tedious! a podcast episode

About Us Press Room Contact Us Podcast Accepted Blog Privacy Policy Website Terms of Use Disclaimer Client Terms of Service

Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar

Additional menu

MBA Admission Gurus

Millionaire MBA Makers

University of Southern California (USC), Marshall School of Business – MBA Essay Samples

Marshall mba essay sample 1 – a challenging international experience.

Read More of this sample MBA essay on challenging international experience

Marshall MBA Essay Sample 2 – Entrepreneur You Admire

Vision: A true visionary, Mr. Gates has a vision for the emerging demand of products. Microsoft was thus among the first ‘purely software products’ companies that were launched. He realized that with the advent of personal computing, a range of computer programs would be required to automate and streamline various tasks

Read More of this sample MBA essay on role-model entrepreneur

ESSAY HELP'S HERE

The USC Marshall Interview – What to Expect + Sample Questions

Oct 27, 2023

How the USC Marshall interview works

Who is marshall looking for, how can you prepare for your interview, what to do if you get a question you haven’t prepared an answer for, make sure you get into usc marshall.

UPDATE : This article was originally posted on January 29, 2020. It has been updated with 2023/24 information and tips below.

For an increasing number of students worldwide, USC’s Marshall School of Business is at the top of their business school target list. With the school’s small class size, strong connections to Asia, and unique 1-year IBEAR program, Marshall offers a truly unique MBA experience.

However, with impressive recruiting statistics and a relentless focus on networking among members of the Trojan Family, competition to join Marshall’s MBA is more difficult than ever.

That’s why we’ve prepared this guide to help you use your Marshall admissions interview to stand out. We’ve rounded up not only our best tips but have also included sample interview mocks to ensure you give your Marshall interview your best shot.

Making sure you shine during your Marshall interview is no easy task.

Marshall interviews, conducted by the admissions committee or second-year students, tend to focus on your overall career progression, future plans, and reasons for wanting to attend Marshall. During the interview, the interviewer is also trying to gauge how solid your motivations for wanting to pursue an MBA are and how interested you seem in the Marshall program.

Interviewers often ask many standard MBA interview questions. You can also expect numerous follow-up questions.

Our clients who have interviewed with Marshall in the past say that the interviewer was very friendly and demonstrated a genuine interest in their answers . Though questions do tend to focus on standard MBA interview questions, be ready for anything.

Who will interview you?

You will interview with a member of Marshall’s admissions committee or a current MBA student.

Will the interviewer have read my application?

No. The Marshall interview is blind, meaning your interviewer will not have had access to your essays, GMAT/GRE scores, university grades, or letters of recommendation. As such, if you want to repeat some of the stories you used in your application, you can do so.

How long will the Marshall interview last?

The Marshall interview usually lasts exactly 30 minutes, however, some client reports have indicated that the interview lasted for nearly 45 minutes.

(Photo courtesy of USC Marshall)

“Every candidate has strengths and weaknesses, just as each candidate has the capacity to learn and to teach. What matters most to us is our learning community and how, through collaboration, we grow and learn together to collectively strengthen the Trojan Family.” Evan Bouffides, Assistant Dean and Director of MBA Admissions, USC Marshall

Every year, USC Marshall literally searches the globe (more than 31 countries are represented) for outstanding professionals given the honor of joining its annual class of around 200 students. There is no “typical” Marshall student, yet the typical admitted student for the Class of 2024 had an average GMAT score of 722 (up from 716 for the Class of 2023), 5.5 years of work experience, and 29 years of age.

Beyond the impressive statistics, though, Marshall is looking for candidates who want to make a positive impact on the world through their careers. That’s why, in addition to strong academic performance (demonstrated through the GMAT and university grades), Marshall seeks candidates who are truly collaborative (the Trojan Family is truly a family at USC), globally minded (the school places a special focus on the pacific rim), and entrepreneurially minded.

USC is also keenly focused on diversity , with 35% of the class made up of students identifying as women, 41% international students, 20% from underrepresented populations, and 9% LGBTQ+ students.

Though no interview is 100% predictable, Marshall interviews do tend to center around a fairly standard list of MBA interview questions. As such, we have prepared some model questions below that previous candidates have received in their past Marshall interviews.

SAMPLE MARSHALL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

The questions below are drawn from our clients’ interview reports, as well as from sites like clearadmit.com . Though these are not all the potential questions you could possibly receive during your Marshall interview, preparing for these (and any follow-up questions you think you might be asked) should give you a very solid foundation for your interview.

STARTING UP QUESTIONS

Tell me about yourself. (Expect follow-up questions)
Why did you choose your university? Your specific major/area of focus?
What are you proudest of in your career thus far?
What do you like to do for fun?
What are your short-term and long-term career goals?
Name three firms you would like to work at after your MBA.
Why do you want an MBA?
Why Marshall?
Which school will you attend if you are admitted into all of these programs?
What will you contribute to Marshall?
Have you visited campus? Spoken with alumni?

LEADERSHIP & TEAMWORK

Tell me about a time when you didn’t get along with your team. What did you do?
Tell me about one instance when you disagreed with your boss and how you handled the situation
What is the biggest misconception your team has about you as a person?
What are three adjectives you would use to describe your leadership style?

MISCELLANEOUS BEHAVIORAL

Tell me an example of when things didn’t work out as you planned.
Tell me about the greatest obstacle you have faced and how you handled it.
How would your friends describe you?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Summarize yourself in a single sentence.
Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?
Is there anything you wished I had asked you?
Questions for me?

We have found that answering real interview questions on the spot is a much better means of preparation than reading lists of interview questions for most candidates.

We highly suggest you take a look at mock interview questions and sample interview responses before your interview .

Our MBA Resource Center has dozens of real interview mocks from Marshall, as well as detailed guides to help you prepare for questions ranging from “Why our MBA program?” to “Tell us about a time you failed.”

The Ellin Lolis Consulting MBA Resource Center is your one-stop shop for interview success. Click to join !

If you’re still not quite confident with your interview skills, our interview experts can help you craft your answers or prepare you for the USC Marshall interview through mock interviews tailored to your profile.

Despite your most diligent preparation, you will almost always receive a question you had not prepared.

First, stay calm and take a deep breath . You have already made it this far in the process, and one question will not trip you up!

Second, make sure you directly answer the question the interviewer asked you. For example, if the interviewer asks you about a time you had to deal with a difficult manager, make sure to tell a story about a difficult manager and how you handled the situation.

If you’re having trouble thinking of an answer or an example to support your answer , however, take a drink of water to give yourself a few more minutes to think. If you really can’t think of an example from your personal or professional experience, you can use a hypothetical answer about how you would act in a certain situation.

Finally, assume that the interviewer is testing how you think on your feet and respond to questions you didn’t prepare in advance. Though your answer might not be as polished as if you’d had weeks to rehearse it, smile and confidently respond to show you can handle any question they throw at you.

One of the most common mistakes we see in MBA interviews is that candidates fail to tell compelling, well-constructed stories about their profiles while also nailing the basics.

Striking this balance between sharing STAR-format examples that show off your background while also presenting strong answers to questions like “Why do you want an MBA?” is a challenging task that requires significant thought and preparation.

Because of this, it’s no surprise that, on average, 50% of interviewed applicants walk away without an offer .

This is why our interview preparation process here at Ellin Lolis Consulting is known as the best in the industry. We offer customized 1:1 support that ensures you’re able to turn your application’s strengths into compelling answers that show fit and sell your profile in any type of interview. That’s why 98.9% of our complete consulting clients get into at least one of their target schools.

That’s the approach we took this year with our client Rafael, who received a full scholarship from Marshall!

Forget simulation platforms or long lists of tips – our 1:1 preparation focuses on playing to your strengths and overcoming your weaknesses to turn you into an interview expert . Hire our interview services here. VIP packages that allow you to work directly with Ellin sell out quickly, so make sure you sign up today !

Real MBA Essays That Got People In

School-specific sample essays that got our clients accepted

Get Access Now

98.9% Success Rate

With our expertise and 98.9% success rate in placing our consulting clients in at least one of their target schools, we can add more value to your application than you ever thought possible.

Recent Articles

How to Successfully Complete the Kellogg Video Essay

Sep 12, 2024

Why does Kellogg require a video essay? How does the Kellogg video essay work? Which types of questions are asked? The difference between a good and great video essay Make sure you get into Kellogg...

How To Successfully Complete the Oxford Kira Video Interview

Sep 11, 2024

With its focus on ethical leadership and social...

The Rotman MBA Video Essay Questions – And How to Successfully Answer Them

Sep 9, 2024

Why does Rotman require a video essay? How does the Rotman video essay work? Which types of questions are asked? The difference between a good and great Rotman MBA video essay Get expert help...

Ready to start your MBA Success?

Would you like a Free Profile Evaluation?

USC Marshall Online MBA Sample Essays and Recommendation Letters

Free samples from past clients, usc marshall online mba application essays 2023-24.

Essay #1 (Required) – What is your specific, immediate short-term career goal upon completion of your MBA? Please include an intended position, function, and industry in your response. (word limit: 100)
Essay #2 (Required) – Please draft a letter that begins with “Dear Admissions Committee” This letter is meant to be your personal statement that provides the Admissions Committee with an understanding of your candidacy for Marshall beyond what is evident in other parts of your application. This essay is purposely open-ended. You are free to express yourself in whatever way you see fit. Our goal is to have an appreciation for and an understanding of each candidate in ways that are not captured by test scores, grades, and resumes. (word limit: 600)
Essay #3 (Optional) Please provide any additional information you would like the admissions committee to consider. (word limit: 250)

Quick Essay Review

Using Chat GPT to Write your Essay? Worried if your Essay is Good enough or Not?

Need a last-minute review?

Submit your essays below & get in-depth feedback within 48 Hours.

USC Marshall Online MBA Letter of Recommendation Questions 2023-24

Provide a brief description of your interaction with the applicant and, if applicable, the applicant’s role in your organization.
How does the performance of the applicant compare to that of other well-qualified individuals in similar roles? (For example, what are the applicant’s principal strengths?)
Describe the most important piece of constructive feedback you have given the applicant. Please detail the circumstances and the applicant’s response.

Step-by-Step Guide

To Writing Great Letter of Recommendations

Free download

Client testimonials, you may also like, application prep, $ 500 / ₹ 40k.

———————

Unlimited Calls

Unlimited Edits

Free Interview Prep

If not shortlisted for Interview*

100% Refund

Wondering if you can target this school?

Free Profile Evaluation Workshop

Join our live workshop and

Get all your profile related questions answered.

Free Profile Evaluation?

Profile Evaluation Workshop

Want to get your profile evaluated?

GMAT CLUB TESTS
FORUM QUIZ - NEW!
QUESTION BANKS
DECISION TRACKER
SCHOOL DISCUSSIONS
MARKETPLACE
T&C and Privacy Policy
GMAT Club Rules
Login Register Forgot password?
${glob_var/L_LOGIN_LOGOUT}
Quick Search

USC Marshall MBA Application Essay Tips & Deadlines [2022 – 2023]

USC Marshall 2022-2023 MBA application essays

Marshall mba essay question #1.

What is your specific, immediate short-term career goal upon completion of your MBA? Please include an intended position, function, and industry in your response. (100 word maximum)

Marshall MBA essay question #2

As the question indicates, there is no one formula for making this essay great. The good news is, there are many ways to do so – as many ways potentially as there are applicants.

Marshall MBA essay question #3

Please provide any additional information you would like the admissions committee to consider. (250 word maximum)

USC Marshall 2022-2023 MBA application deadlines

Round 1	October 15, 2022
Round 2	January 5, 2023
Round 3	March 1, 2023
Round 4	April 15, 2023
Round 5	Rolling Admissions*

*Applications received after April 15, 2023 will be considered on a space-available basis.

Source: USC Marshall website

Stay on top of MBA deadlines with the MBA Admissions Calendar !

[ Click here to add the calendar to your Google calendar; or here to add the calendar to another app.]

***Disclaimer: Information is subject to change. Please check with individual programs to verify the essay questions, instructions and deadlines.***

Cindy Tokumitsu has advised hundreds of successful applicants, helping them gain acceptance to top MBA and EMBA programs in her 20 years with Accepted. She would love to help you too. Want Cindy to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Check out our School-Specific MBA Application Essay Tips

Related Resources:

Why MBA , a free guide
Life at USC Marshall as a Future Investment Banker , an MBA student interview
USC Marshall’s Kellee Scott: Don’t Be Rigid, Boring or Tedious! a podcast episode

This article originally appeared on blog.accepted.com

accepted.com

Published in MBA , Accepted.com , Admission Consultants , Applications and Blog

MBA Application Tips
MBA application advice
MBA application essays
MBA essay advice
MBA essay tips
USC Marshall
USC Marshall School of Business

Are you seeking one-on-one college counseling and/or essay support? Limited spots are now available. Click here to learn more.

USC Supplemental Essays 2024-25 — Prompts & Advice

August 7, 2024

When applying to a school like the University of Southern California, it is important to grasp that their acceptance rate in 2024 is lower than Harvard’s back in the late 1990s. Last cycle, USC received roughly 82,000 applications and admitted just 9% from that pool. We don’t bring up these numbers or the Friends -era Harvard comparison to cause future applicants unnecessary fear. Rather, we want aspiring Trojans to realize that in addition to strong high school grades and standardized test scores, they need to excel in other critical areas of their application as well. This brings us to the topic of the USC supplemental essays.

(Want to learn more about How to Get Into the University of Southern California? Visit our blog entitled: How to Get Into USC: Admissions Data and Strategies for all of the most recent admissions data as well as tips for gaining acceptance.)

The supplemental essay section offered by USC is a fairly epic one and presents just such an opportunity for students to differentiate themselves from swarms of other qualified applicants. In addition to several short essays, you are also required to answer 10 short answer questions. Below are the USC’s supplemental prompts for the 2024-25 admissions cycle along with tips about how to address each one.

2024-25 USC Supplemental Essays – Prompt #1

Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections. (Approximately 250 words)

This is part “Why Us?” and part “Explain Your Major,” and your aim is to seamlessly touch on both topics in a tightly woven 250-word composition. For a deeper dive, let’s examine a list of characteristics of a winning USC “Why Us?” essay:

How did your interest in your major of choice begin and how has it matured over the years?
While pursuing your majors(s)/interest(s) of choice, how will you take advantage of the university’s immense resources both inside and outside of the classroom? Be sure to cite specific academic programs , professors , research opportunities , internship/externship programs , and study abroad programs . Discuss why they pique your interest.
Feel free to touch on student-run organizations related to your field of study that you would like to join.
Lastly, don’t ignore your second-choice major in this essay.

In any “Why Us?” composition, you need to show that you’ve done your homework on a given school, but you don’t want it to read like a robotic list of items that you Googled ten minutes before writing the essay (even if the timing of the Google search is roughly accurate). In addition to the pure research element, a lot of the time and skill required in creating a stellar USC essay will involve connecting the classes, professors, opportunities, etc. of interest that you have uncovered to your distinct values, talents, aims, proficiencies, and future goals.

USC Supplemental Essays – Short Answers

(#1 allows 25 characters for each word, and #2-10 allows 100 characters each)

Describe yourself in three words.
What is your favorite snack?
Best movie of all time
If your life had a theme song, what would it be?
What TV show will you binge watch next?
Which well-known person or fictional character would be your ideal roommate?
Favorite book
If you could teach a class on any topic, what would it be?

USC Supplemental Essays (Continued)

It would be a bit silly to try to advise you on what your favorite snack is. Obviously, the USC admissions committee wants to hear “Pepperoni Pizza Combos” but will also accept “Ranch-flavored Bugles.” As such, we’ll keep our advice on these a bit broader:

This is a chance to make a personal connection with an admissions officer. Don’t overthink these or pick movies, books, songs, or trips that you think an admissions officer will find impressive. Just be genuine.
For #1, try to avoid words like “interesting” that are…well, not very interesting , or words that could describe most of USC’s applicant pool, like “hard-working” or “dedicated.”
For #10, don’t pick a general topic in a traditional discipline. Instead, pick something about which you are passionate. This could be a blend of pop culture and academics or a highly esoteric topic that you happen to be obsessed with (e.g., the Beatles 1965-67 mid-career era, the history of jai-alai, or how to groom a ferret).
You have 100 characters to utilize, so do include some short explanations that infuse your answers with extra personality. For example, you could jazz up Ranch-flavored Bugles as follows: “Ranch-flavored Bugles, me and my mom’s go-to Jeopardy snack.”
Final tip: if you feel stuck, try brainstorming a few options for each one before choosing your favorite.

USC Supplemental Essays – School-Specific Prompts

In addition to the required essays noted above, you’ll also need to answer at least one additional essay question that is dependent on the school or college you are applying to at USC. Below, we’ve broken down the most popular options:

Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

Many of us have at least one issue or passion that we care deeply about – a topic on which we would love to share our opinions and insights in hopes of sparking intense interest and continued conversation. If you had ten minutes and the attention of a million people, what would your talk be about? (250 words)

What makes you tick? What keeps you up at night? Which subjects could (and do) you talk about for hours if given the opportunity? If you could address one problem in the world, large or small, what would it be? Here’s your chance to tell us all about it. You’ll then want to explain “why”—why will (or should) your passion/topic of choice be made relevant to a wider audience? Why is it so important that others hear your message? Your answer will give admissions readers greater insight into what type of issues are most important to you.

Viterbi School of Engineering

The National Academy of Engineering (NAE) and their 14 Grand Challenges go hand-in-hand with our vision to engineer a better world for all humanity. Engineers and computer scientists are challenged to solve these problems in order to improve life on the planet. Learn more about the NAE Grand Challenges at http://engineeringchallenges.org and tell us which challenge is most important to you, and why. (250 words)

The NAE Grand Challenges list is expansive and includes a number of pressing issues, like clean water access, solar energy, and nuclear terrorism. Basically, you are 100% guaranteed to find at least one item on this list that resonates with you. After reviewing the options, which one are you most passionate about, and why? Is there something from your personal background or experiences that inspired your interest in this area? Alternatively, have you engaged with this topic either inside or outside of school, and if so, how? What would you still like to learn about it? If you choose an issue that you are genuinely interested in and clearly convey your reasoning for doing so, you’ll be well on your way to a compelling response.

The student body at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering is a diverse group of unique engineers and computer scientists who work together to engineer a better world for all humanity. Describe how your contributions to the USC Viterbi student body may be distinct from others. Please feel free to touch on any part of your background, traits, skills, experiences, challenges, and/or personality in helping us better understand you. (250 words)

Take note of the wide-open nature of this prompt. You are essentially invited to talk about any of the following topics:

A perspective you hold
An experience/challenge you had
A community you belong to
Your cultural background
Your family background
A personality trait
A skill you have

Although this prompt’s open floor plan may feel daunting, a good tactic is to first consider what has already been communicated within your Common App personal statement, activities list, and other USC essays. What important aspects of yourself have not been shared (or sufficiently discussed)? The admissions officer reading your essay is hoping to connect with you through your written words, so—within your essay’s reflection—be open, humble, thoughtful, inquisitive, emotionally honest, mature, and/or insightful about what you learned and how you grew. No matter what type of story you tell, the goal is to have the reader come away saying, “I can definitely see this applicant as a contributing member of our talented and engaged Viterbi community.”

How important are the USC supplemental essays?

There are five factors that USC considers to be “very important” to their candidate evaluation process and the essay section is one of them. Along with GPA, standardized test scores, rigor of high school coursework, and recommendations, the Common App and supplement essays play a huge role in the USC admissions staff’s decision-making.

Want personalized assistance?

Lastly, if you are interested in working with one of College Transitions’ experienced and knowledgeable essay coaches as you craft your USC supplemental essays, we encourage you to get a quote today.

Looking for additional writing resources? Consider checking out the following:

Common App Essay Prompts
10 Instructive Common App Essay Examples
College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
How to Quickly Format Your Common App Essay
Should I Complete Optional College Essays?
How to Brainstorm a College Essay
25 Inspiring College Essay Topics
“Why This College?” Essay Examples
How to Write the Community Essay
College Essay

Dave Bergman

Dave has over a decade of professional experience that includes work as a teacher, high school administrator, college professor, and independent educational consultant. He is a co-author of the books The Enlightened College Applicant (Rowman & Littlefield, 2016) and Colleges Worth Your Money (Rowman & Littlefield, 2020).

2-Year Colleges
ADHD/LD/Autism/Executive Functioning
Application Strategies
Best Colleges by Major
Best Colleges by State
Big Picture
Career & Personality Assessment
College Search/Knowledge
College Success
Costs & Financial Aid
Data Visualizations
Dental School Admissions
Extracurricular Activities
General Knowledge
Graduate School Admissions
High School Success
High Schools
Homeschool Resources
Law School Admissions
Medical School Admissions
Navigating the Admissions Process
Online Learning
Outdoor Adventure
Private High School Spotlight
Research Programs
Summer Program Spotlight
Summer Programs
Teacher Tools
Test Prep Provider Spotlight

“Innovative and invaluable…use this book as your college lifeline.”

— Lynn O'Shaughnessy

Nationally Recognized College Expert

College Planning in Your Inbox

Join our information-packed monthly newsletter.

We can improve your MBA profile and boost your candidacy. Gain insight into the review process and eliminate weaknesses from your MBA application.

Note: You must have javascript enabled to submit the form.

USC Marshall Application Essays for 2024-2025

Are you targeting the USC Marshall School of Business this year? The application for the full-time MBA program is now live, and the deadlines are here . Meanwhile, the USC Marshall application essays remain unchanged for the 2024-2025 admissions season.

Essay #1 (Required)

What is your specific, immediate short-term career goal upon completion of your MBA? Please include an intended position, function, and industry in your response. (word limit: 100)

Essay #2 (Required)

Please draft a letter that begins with “Dear Admissions Committee” (word limit: 600)

This letter is meant to be your personal statement that provides the Admissions Committee with an understanding of your candidacy for Marshall beyond what is evident in other parts of your application. This essay is purposely open-ended. You are free to express yourself in whatever way you see fit. Our goal is to have an appreciation for and an understanding of each candidate in ways that are not captured by test scores, grades, and resumes.

Essay #3 (Optional)

Please provide any additional information you would like the admissions committee to consider. (word limit: 250)

For more information on applying, please visit the USC Marshall admissions site . If you need guidance on your USC Marshall application essays, or wish to discuss your MBA plans, reach out for a complimentary analysis of your candidacy. We’re here to help!

Here’s a snapshot of the caliber of expertise on our SBC team .

HBS Admissions Board at Harvard Business School HBS MBA

HBS Admissions Board at Harvard Business School Kellogg MBA

Director HBS Admissions at Harvard Business School MBA, the Wharton School

HBS Admissions Board at Harvard Business School

Director HBS Admissions at Harvard Business School HBS MBA

Admissions Officer at Stanford's Graduate School of Business (GSB) MBA, Stanford's Graduate School of Business (GSB)

Asst Director MBA Admissions at Stanford's Graduate School of Business (GSB) Director MBA Admissions at Berkeley’s Haas School of Business

MBA, Stanford's Graduate School of Business (GSB) Minority Admissions, the GSB Diversity Programs, the GSB

Associate Director MBA Admissions at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania

Associate Director MBA Admissions and Marketing at the Wharton MBA’s Lauder Institute

Director, the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania Professional Writer

Assistant Director MBA Admissions at Columbia Business School (CBS) NYU Admissions

Assistant Director MBA Admissions at Columbia Business School (CBS) M.S.Ed, Higher Education, U of Pennsylvania

Associate Director MBA Admissions at Columbia Business School (CBS)

Ashley is a former MBA Admissions Board Member for Harvard Business School (HBS), where she interviewed and evaluated thousands of business school applicants for over a six year tenure. Ashley holds an MBA from HBS. During her HBS years, Ashley was the Sports Editor for the Harbus and a member of the B-School Blades Ice Hockey Team. After HBS, she worked in Marketing at the Gillette Company on Male and Female shaving ...

Kerry is a former member of the Admissions Board at Harvard Business School (HBS). During her 5+ year tenure at HBS, she read and evaluated hundreds of applications and interviewed MBA candidates from a wide range of backgrounds across the globe. She also led marketing and outreach efforts focused on increasing diversity and inclusion, ran the Summer Venture in Management Program (SVMP), and launched the 2+2 Program during her time in Admissions. Kerry holds a B.A. from Bates College and ...

A former associate director of admissions at Harvard Business School, Pauline served on the HBS MBA Admissions Board full-time for four years. She evaluated and interviewed HBS applicants, both on-campus and globally. Pauline's career has included sales and marketing management roles with Coca-Cola, Gillette, Procter & Gamble, and IBM. For over 10 years, Pauline has expertly guided MBA applicants, and her clients h ...

Geri is a former member of the Admissions Board at Harvard Business School (HBS). In her 7 year tenure in HBS Admissions, she read and evaluated hundreds of applications and interviewed MBA candidates from a diverse set of academic, geographic, and employment backgrounds. Geri also traveled globally representing the school at outreach events in order to raise awareness for women and international students. In additio ...

Laura comes from the MBA Admissions Board at Harvard Business School (HBS) and is an HBS MBA alumnus. In her HBS Admissions role, she evaluated and interviewed hundreds of business school candidates, including internationals, women, military and other applicant pools, for five years. Prior to her time as a student at HBS, Laura began her career in advertising and marketing in Chicago at Leo Burnett where she worked on th ...

Andrea served as the Associate Director of MBA Admissions at Harvard Business School (HBS) for over five years. In this role, she provided strategic direction for student yield-management activities and also served as a full member of the admissions committee. In 2007, Andrea launched the new 2+2 Program at Harvard Business School – a program targeted at college junior applicants to Harvard Business School. Andrea has also served as a Career Coach for Harvard Business School for both cu ...

Jennifer served as Admissions Officer at the Stanford (GSB) for five years. She holds an MBA from Stanford (GSB) and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Jennifer has over 15 years experience in guiding applicants through the increasingly competitive admissions process into top MBA programs. Having read thousands and thousands of essays and applications while at Stanford (GSB) Admiss ...

Erin served in key roles in MBA Admissions--as Director at Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley and Assistant Director at Stanford's Graduate School of Business (GSB). Erin served on the admissions committee at each school and has read thousands of applications in her career. At Haas, she served for seven years in roles that encompassed evaluation, outreach, and diversity and inclusion. During her tenure in Admissions at GSB, she was responsible for candidate evaluation, applicant outreach, ...

Susie comes from the Admissions Office of the Stanford Graduate School of Business where she reviewed and evaluated hundreds of prospective students’ applications. She holds an MBA from Stanford’s GSB and a BA from Stanford in Economics. Prior to advising MBA applicants, Susie held a variety of roles over a 15-year period in capital markets, finance, and real estate, including as partner in one of the nation’s most innovative finance and real estate investment organizations. In that r ...

Dione holds an MBA degree from Stanford Business School (GSB) and a BA degree from Stanford University, where she double majored in Economics and Communication with concentrations in journalism and sociology. Dione has served as an Admissions reader and member of the Minority Admissions Advisory Committee at Stanford. Dione is an accomplished and respected advocate and thought leader on education and diversity. She is ...

Anthony served as the Associate Director of MBA Admissions at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, where he dedicated over 10 years of expertise. During his time as a Wharton Admissions Officer, he read and reviewed thousands of applications and helped bring in a class of 800+ students a year. Anthony has traveled both domestically and internationally to recruit a ...

Meghan served as the Associate Director of Admissions and Marketing at the Wharton MBA’s Lauder Institute, a joint degree program combining the Wharton MBA with an MA in International Studies. In her role on the Wharton MBA admissions committee, Meghan advised domestic and international applicants; conducted interviews and information sessions domestically and overseas in Asia, Central and South America, and Europe; and evaluated applicants for admission to the program. Meghan also managed ...

Amy comes from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania where she was Associate Director. Amy devoted 12 years at the Wharton School, working closely with MBA students and supporting the admissions team. During her tenure at Wharton, Amy served as a trusted adviser to prospective applicants as well as admitted and matriculated students. She conducted admissions chats with applicants early in the admissions ...

Ally brings six years of admissions experience to the SBC team, most recently as an Assistant Director of Admission for the full-time MBA program at Columbia Business School (CBS). During her time at Columbia, Ally was responsible for reviewing applications, planning recruitment events, and interviewing candidates for both the full-time MBA program and the Executive MBA program. She traveled both internationally and dome ...

Erin has over seven years of experience working across major institutions, including University of Pennsylvania, Columbia Business School, and NYU's Stern School of Business. At Columbia Business School, Erin was an Assistant Director of Admissions where she evaluated applications for both the full time and executive MBA programs, sat on the admissions and merit scholarship committees and advised applicants on which program might be the best fit for them based on their work experience and pro ...

Emma comes from the MBA Admissions Office at Columbia Business School (CBS), where she was Associate Director. Emma conducted dozens of interviews each cycle for the MBA and EMBA programs, as well as coordinating the alumni ambassador interview program. She read and evaluated hundreds of applications each cycle, delivered information sessions to audiences across the globe, and advised countless waitlisted applicants.

If you have an interview coming up, you will want to review SBC’s interview prep services . The key to interview success is practice and we provide you with all the tools you need to do just that.

Leverage our video platform to practice, view yourself and improve
Work with our experts for live rehearsal and feedback
Download a guide for lists of practice questions, tips on how to prep and overviews of interview formats
Experience a real group interview before your big day

$10M Trustee Gift to Boost Ethics and Leadership at USC Marshall

Face Off: UCLA Anderson vs USC Marshall

USC Marshall Application Deadlines for 2024-2025

Professor Profiles: USC Marshall’s Pai-Ling Yin

Learn about our all-in service, meet the sbc consulting team.

(323) 934-3936 info@StacyBlackman.com

Latest Blog Post

B-schooled podcast episode #221: how to nail the kellogg application.

As many B-Schooled listeners know, the Kellogg School of Management recently updated its MBA application. For this episode, host Chandler sits down with former Kellogg Admissions Officer and senior SBC Consultant Caryn to discuss all ... →

Full-Time MBA (FTMBA)

Full-time mba.

A full-time two-year MBA program for early career professionals to sharpen business fundamentals, learn to leverage technology for business and social impact, and empower leadership of diverse global teams. Opportunities for networking and specialization enable students to use the MBA to transform their career.

Marshall is located in one of the most vibrant global economies and is part of a large, diverse university ready to engage the world’s demanding challenges. The Trojan Network, known for its strong community, includes more than 450,000 alumni, where 100,000+ are from the Marshall School. Our campus community includes a world-class faculty, high performing students and a dedicated professional staff.

Three USC Marshall Full-Time MBA students.

APPLY TODAY Next Deadline: October 1st
ADMISSIONS INFO
ADMISSIONS EVENTS
REQUEST INFO

PROGRAM PROFILE - FULL-TIME MBA (FTMBA)

Duration: 2 years

Format: In-Person

Class Schedule: Weekdays on campus.

Student Profile: Early-Career Professionals

STEM Designation: For international applicants, this program is eligible for the OPT-STEM extension

FULL-TIME MBA PROGRAM BENEFITS

A holistic academic-career program.

Marshall employs a holistic academic-career program model. Marshall has tightly integrated and aligned the academic, programmatic and career development of the MBA Program. Academic courses at the start of the MBA Core such as Communication for Management, Foundations for Your Professional Value and Structured Analysis for Unstructured Problems that explore self-awareness, leadership, communication and value-creation help students identify their personal interests and value in the marketplace.

Career Preparation

Engaging with Graduate Career Services ensures that you’re among the best-prepared candidates in the marketplace. You’ll partner with a career strategist on your career journey as you make connections to the organizations and industries that hire Marshall talent. Through one-on-one career coaching, self-reflection, involvement with career clubs, case competitions, career workshops, and recruiting events, you’ll come to a clear understanding of what you want, your differentiating skills and what’s important to you in your future career.

Elite Faculty

Marshall faculty devote a lot of effort designing core courses that build on and complement each other and the overall program learning goals. Marshall faculty are encouraged to engage in collaborative teaching, often partnering with each other to use common case studies to explore a common business problem from a variety of academic perspectives, providing students with a richer understanding of the circumstances, factors and issues of the case.

This inter-disciplinary teaching is enhanced by the incorporation of current events, career panels and forums, guest speakers and industry practitioners who support the academic content with real-world perspectives.

STEM Certification

As of Spring 2020, Marshall's entire Full-Time MBA Program is STEM certified. Marshall is one of a small number of business schools with a STEM MBA Program which is designed to combine data-driven decision-making and analytics with the overall MBA program learning objectives of developing a global and entrepreneurial mindset, building a deep understanding of business fundamentals, and leading high-performing teams.

The STEM MBA is focused on preparing students to fulfill the increasing need to apply quantitative and scientific methods to business challenges. Additionally, international graduates are able to apply to extend their 12 month OPT by an additional 24 months, potentially expanding their employment opportunities within the U.S.

Global Opportunities - PRIME Program

Los Angeles is perfectly situated to serve as the gateway to global business. PRIME is designed to put your collective classroom experience to use in an immersive experience abroad. After studying the cultural, economic, and political facets of a region, you will work with multi-national companies, domestic enterprises, and governmental institutions to develop recommendations and solutions for pressing economic and societal issues. You will have the opportunity to select one of six unique experiences in Southeast Asia and, where you will explore the history and culture of the region. Whether you visit the Great Wall or hike the Peruvian highlands, you'll have an unforgettable experience!

Career Insights Seminars

Developing strategies for lifelong career management and taking action on those strategies is the key to successfully managing one’s career and to exploring, identifying, and landing satisfying roles throughout a lifetime. To support our students in this effort, this course will deliver industry insight sessions to enable the student to improve industry awareness and gain a deeper understanding of the future of the business and industry.

MBA Alumni Mentor Program

One of the longest running programs of its kind at USC Marshall and brings MBA students and alumni together in a relationship designed to assist students in making informed career decisions. Our mentors are seasoned professionals from a variety of functions and industries and are typically USC alumni.

FULL-TIME MBA CURRICULUM

Academic overview.

Holistic Academic-Career Program: The program begins with MBA Core courses that explore self-awareness, leadership, communication and value creation in order to help students identify their personal interest and value in the market place. The curriculum is designed to be flexible and customizable to suit each individuals' career goals. The program offers 100 different electives and opportunities to take courses from other graduate schools at USC like the School of Cinematic Arts or Viterbi School of Engineering. The Core Curriculum is designed to provide students with the fundamental principles of business that every manager needs to know and is delivered over five terms within the first academic year.

In Term 4, student-teams participate in a consulting project with a Los Angeles-based company, developing solutions for real-life business problems, using fundamental business tools they have learned in the program. In Term 5, students also begin to explore global business through the Global Context of Business course followed by the PRIME overseas experience. USC Marshall’s signature PRIME overseas experience is an experiential opportunity that allows students to travel abroad to one of a select number of countries to gain first-hand knowledge of how business is done globally. During the 10-day PRIME trip, students visit domestic and multinational companies and governmental institutions, develop business insights and complete projects that take into consideration the cultural, financial, regulatory, political and other constraints and opportunities of the country.

Core Curriculum

GSBA-511: Microeconomics for Management

In this course, you will learn about supply and demand analysis, game theory, and the causes and consequences of market failures.

GSBA-540: Contemporary Issues for Competitive Strategy

Fundamental strategic business decisions can only be made effectively by viewing a firm holistically. This integrative course takes a broad view of the overall environment, including companies, customers, and competitors, to create a body of analytical tools to aid in strategic decision-making.

GSBA-541: Foundations of Your Professional Value

What drives you? This course is designed to help you put into place the foundational knowledge to discover, identify, and leverage your personal strengths to serve as catalysts in your career development.

GSBA-542: Communication for Management

This communication and leadership course is designed to jumpstart your development as a true leader in your respective field by enhancing your core leadership skills, professional communication style, and self-awareness through clinical research in leadership and communication theory.

GSBA-510: Accounting Concepts and Financial Reporting

Learn the language, rules, and conventions used in preparing financial statements to critically assess companies and make decisions based on financial data. The course provides foundational financial reporting knowledge for business managers.

GSBA-524: Data Science for Business

This course offers a deep dive into probability, statistics, and advanced analytics critical to managerial decision making. You will learn modern statistical techniques like neural networks, data mining, and clustering analysis through multiple applications, including R programming language.

GSBA-527: Structured Analysis for Unstructured Problems

In this course, you will learn how to grapple with how to frame problems and make decisions with incomplete information that is typical in the business world through problem-framing, analogical reasoning, hypothesis evaluation, and counterfactual thinking.

GSBA-548: Corporate Finance

Familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of finance in this course designed to provide an introductory framework for understanding how financiers break down the components of a financial problem and make decisions as investors in capital markets.

GSBA-509: Marketing Management

Marketing concepts are at the core of every business. After this course, you will be able to understand marketing strategy, determine market opportunities, and apply both qualitative and quantitative frameworks from a managerial perspective.

GSBA-510: Accounting Concepts and Financial Reporting (Cont’d)

GSBA-524: Data Science for Business (Cont’d)

GSBA-548: Corporate Finance (Cont’d)

GSBA-504a: Operations Management

You will learn about the fundamentals of design, operations, and production systems of a firm's business practices critical to meeting consumer demands for goods and services.

GSBA-533: Organizational Behavior and Leadership

Leading, managing, and working collaboratively with others is essential to being effective in the workplace. By recognizing the motivations and behaviors of stakeholders inside and outside organizations, you will have a heightened ability to apply ethical principles and professional standards in the corporate world.

GSBA-552: Problem Solving and Decision Making: An Integrated Approach Electives

This immersive course will give you experience and exposure to actual unstructured business problems faced by various companies, ranging from startups to multinational organizations. You will apply classroom knowledge and your professional experience as you partner with local companies and help develop recommendations to solve business issues in this team-based consultancy project.

GSBA-503: Contemporary Issues in Competitive Global Strategy

In the quest to enter foreign markets, firms must look at the overall strategy to become multinational. In this course, you will learn several aspects of corporate and global strategy designed to help you understand and analyze significant business opportunities around the world.

GSBA-580: The Global Context of Business: PRIME Electives

In this course, you will put the material you learned in your core classes to the test in a week-long immersive experience abroad. You will analyze the influence of emerging business models and technologies that have the potential to significantly alter the industry landscape and society. After studying the cultural, economic, and political characteristics of your selected region, you will work with multi-national companies, domestic enterprises, and governmental institutions to develop recommendations for pressing economic and societal issues they aim to solve.

Elective Classes

Elective courses allow students to explore their areas of interest and develop deep competencies that align with their career goals.

MBA students may select 7.5 units of elective classes during the Spring semester of their first year. This provides students the opportunity to take classes that they feel will prepare them to be successful in their summer internship. Students may choose to take additional elective classes during the summer in lieu of an internship.

The second-year of the MBA program is intended to be customized to suit student’s interests and career goals. The 30 remaining elective units can be earned by: - Taking elective coursework – Marshall offers close to 100 elective courses for MBA students in any given year; - Designing an individualized program of study that cuts across several functional areas*; - Completing an independent study project*; and/or - Selecting courses from other graduate schools within the university*- students may take up to nine elective units at another USC graduate school

*Available to second year MBA students who have completed all core curriculum and are in good standing (minimum 3.0 GPA)

Please note course offerings are not guaranteed and students should consult the Schedule of Classes for courses offered during any given term.

Featured Elective Courses

Negotiation and Deal Making

The purpose of this course is to understand the theory and processes of negotiation as it is practiced in a variety of settings. The course is designed to be relevant to the broad spectrum of negotiation problems that managers face. Considerable emphasis is placed on simulations, role-playing and case studies.

Strategy and Operations through CFO Lens

This class addresses the strategic and operational issues that companies face in multiple industries, and the responses of chief financial officers who are responsible for the accounting and financial planning and decision making. The class includes guest speakers, CFOs who present how they view the business as a whole and measure performance effectively.

Experiential Learning Projects

Graduate Student Investment Fund (SIF) Course

The Student Investment Fund (SIF) Program is a one-year experiential course consisting of two 3-unit finance electives in “Applied Portfolio Management” (i.e., FBE 553a & FBE553b). It is designed to give students rigorous exposure to contemporary investment and portfolio theory and practice. Each year interested Marshall graduate students apply to be part of the course and 16 students are selected to manage approximately $8.0 million of USC’s endowment fund in four equity and one fixed-income portfolio, each with a unique investment discipline. Analytical tools for the valuation of stocks, bonds, and options are presented. The course also covers risk management and portfolio optimization, behavioral finance, and performance attribution. Students will demonstrate and refine their ability to apply analytical concepts and techniques through the following:

Fund management
Sector reports
Company research reports
Investment research reports
Security pitches

MBA Society and Business Fellowship Program

Sponsored by the USC Marshall Brittingham Social Enterprise Lab (BSEL), the MBA Society and Business Fellowship Program is a highly selective, year-long opportunity for the small cadre of MBA and MBA.PM students who are seeking a business degree in order to pursue careers in poverty alleviation, including homelessness, education, and global health.

As a Society and Business Fellow, students receive:

Monthly cohort meetings with like-minded students and professional networking relationships with alumni who share values.
Personal mentoring from the Brittingham Social Enterprise Lab (BSEL) staff.
Targeted guidance and counseling for summer internships and full-time employment.
Professional development tailored to non-traditional business careers.
Priority registration for BAEP 566/567, 571, 591.
Exclusive opportunities to meet with industry leaders and exposure to best practices in social entrepreneurship.
Funding toward professional development.
Priority consideration for a subsidy (up to $2,500) to complete a summer internship at an eligible nonprofit organization.

Marshall Leadership Fellows Program (MLFP)

MLFP offers a unique leadership development course combining classroom and experiential learning opportunities where second year MBA students dedicated to personal and professional leadership development provide coaching to first year Core teams. This program includes two semester academic experience, totaling 3.0 units of elective coursework (MOR-574a and MOR-574b). In this program second year student coaches hone their leadership skills, gain practical experience, and learn to provide structured feedback using concepts, mechanism, and management best practices while guided by the Business Communications and Organizational Behavior Core Faculty. At the same time, through this coaching, first year core teams become more high-functioning and collaborative while each team member becomes more high-performing, flexible and open to complexity.

Independent Projects

Upon completion of the core curriculum, second year MBA students in good standing may apply to complete an independent research project. The independent project option allows students to pursue research in specific areas of interest that may not be covered in other course offerings. Independent projects include Field Research in Business, Independent Research in Business, Research Practicum in Business and Consulting Project in Business. Students working on independent projects work one-on-one with their supervising faculty member to design and execute their research plan.

FTMBA SAMPLE CURRICULUM

APPLYING TO THE FULL-TIME MBA PROGRAM

Application deadlines.

	Deadline	Decision By
Round 1	October 1, 2024	December 15, 2024
Round 2	January 10, 2025	April 18, 2025
Round 3	April 15, 2025	June 15, 2025

Round 1 and 2 are priority consideration for scholarships

Chat with an Ambassador

SEE ALL AMBASSADORS

FULL-TIME MBA STUDENT LIFE

Full-time mba student organizations.

USC Marshall has 40 graduate student organizations. Ranging from community outreach, diversity and affinity groups, career clubs, and social and athletic organizations, students are able to expand their network to other USC Marshall MBA graduate programs and corporate contacts. Club activities take place during the day, evenings and weekends, and can include networking opportunities, social events and company visits.

Challenge For Charity

Challenge for Charity (C4C) is a 37-year-old nonprofit 501(c)(3) that puts teams from eight elite West Coast MBA programs against each other in a year-long effort to demonstrate their commitment to community outreach and social responsibility.

Despite Covid-19 challenges, Marshall MBAs have remained involved in supporting C4C core charities through service and fundraising. USC’s C4C chapters have raised over 2 million dollars and volunteered over 60,000 hours for our core charities.

Throughout the year, USC Marshall students volunteer and raise money for three charities, including:

SPECIAL OLYMPICS: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BRANCH

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT OF SOUTHER CALIFORNIA

HEAL THE BAY

Case Competitions

The MARSHALL BUSINESS COMPETITION PROGRAM (MBCP) seeks to provide MBA students with the opportunity to enhance critical business and leadership skills, connect with potential employers, and put classroom learning in to practice. Each year Marshall is invited to compete in case competitions hosted by MBA programs around the country and world. In the 2015-2016 academic year, Marshall students competed in 18 case competitions, resulting in six first place and two second place finishes.

Leadership Fellows Program (MLFP)

MLFP is a one-year leadership development program for Full-Time MBA students. The program provides coaching, classroom and experiential learning, as well as personal and professional development resources and support. MORE

WHY MARSHALL

Career pathways.

Marshall graduate students are actively sought by the world's leading companies Amazon, Google, Salesforce, BCG and Goldman Sachs. Benefitting from Marshall's deep industry ties, they are leaders in a range of industries from Technology, Entertainment and Interactive Gaming to Healthcare, Consulting and Financial Services.

Trojan Network

The Marshall Trojan network links students and business leaders around the globe. Over 90,000 Marshall alumni worldwide create a proactive pay-it-forward culture that drives powerful career outcomes. There is simply no other alumni network quite like it.

Real-World Learning

Every Marshall graduate student has opportunities to integrate and apply what they learn in the classroom to real challenges outside the classroom. Learning by doing trains leaders to be visionary and resilient.

Faculty Expertise

USC Marshall faculty come from a wide array of backgrounds and disciplines. They engage in collaborative and inter-disciplinary teaching to explore business challenges and opportunities from a variety of viewpoints. They incorporate case studies, current events, career panels, and industry speakers to support academic content with real-world perspectives.

Global School in the Heart of LA

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, USC Marshall is embedded in one of the most vibrant global economies and part of a large, diverse university community committed to a culture of inclusion, collegiality, cooperation, and team work. Our students, faculty and alumni play leading roles in the industries that have built and continue to drive L.A. forward - from real-estate and accounting, to marketing and finance, to entertainment and tech.

Program Showcase: FTMBA

Full-time mba news + events, career launchpad connects incoming mbas with professional paths.

A week of workshops, panels, and networking opportunities provides full-time MBA students a headstart on their careers.

2024 USC Marshall Grad Programs Open House

Join us at our upcoming Open House to explore the exceptional MBA and MS programs available at USC Marshall, a nationally ranked top 20 business school. Whether you are an early-career professional or seasoned executive, we offer a broad range of flexible programs to fit your academic and career goals with options to pursue your degree on-campus in the heart of Los Angeles, or online.

MBA Alumni Offer Guidance to New MBA Candidates

Full-Time MBA alumni return to campus to give advice and support during orientation.

Commitment, Community, and Family: One MBA Graduate’s Pathway to Success

With the support of a dedicated community at home and at school, Shiressa Johnson MBA ’24 excelled at USC Marshall.

Welcome Back to Marshall

Marshall and Leventhal deans welcome incoming and returning students as the 2023-2024 academic year begins.

STAY CONNECTED

University of Southern California Marshall School of Business Popovich Hall, Suite 308 Los Angeles, CA 90089-2633

Phone: 213-740-7846

Email: [email protected]

Stay Informed + Stay Connected

00(91) 8697361425
[email protected]
Admission Tips
Profile Evaluation

MBA Essay Tips
Part-Time Tips
Sample Essays
Masters Courses

USC Marshall MBA Essay Tips 2024

USC Marshall MBA Essay Tips

USC Marshall MBA Essay Tips # 1: What is your specific, immediate short-term career goal upon completion of your MBA? Please include an intended position, function, and industry in your response. (word limit: 100)

In just 100 words, you don’t have too much room to play. Describe your aspired position, industry and what are the things that you wish to accomplish in that role (bulk of this short essay should focus on this part)

USC Marshall MBA Essay Tips # 2: Please draft a letter that begins with "Dear Admissions Committee" (word limit: 600)

USC Marshall admissions team has literally given you an empty space to talk about anything. You can take any of the following paths:

Explain why MBA, why now and what values USC Marshall will add to your career
Talk about any major accomplishment to demonstrate your competence as a leader and describe how Marshall is going to make you a better leader. This accomplishment can be from professional career or personal life; however, I prefer a professional story here as essay # 1 is just 100 words. You can’t showcase your leadership competencies in essay #1. Hence, this is the ideal place to show your maturity as a leader. Example – an extremely challenging project in which you fought against all odds to succeed, any major initiative that you spearheaded in your organization etc.
Talk about a life changing event. Narrate the story in detail and explain how it offered eye-opening lessons that changed your life forever. Example – You provided support to your spouse who was battling cancer, layoff from job, an accident, etc.

How to Differentiate yourself?

Read some of the sample essays that I have helped my clients create for their successful B-school applications. All of them have been written and rewritten multiple times to project their differentiation. Read both the finalized essays and the basic write-ups given by the clients in order to understand the huge difference between the two. A meticulous review will help you to realize how much discussions and modifications were done to create the final pieces. Please don’t copy the ideas. I don’t mind if you do. But the chances are, they won’t suit your profile and it will jeopardize whatever odds you now have.

Sample Essay 1 - Contribution to the School and Class
Sample Essay 2 - What matters most to you and why?
Sample Essay 3 - Describe A Challenging Situation

USC Marshall MBA Essay Tips # (Optional): Please provide any additional information that will enhance our understanding of your candidacy for the program. (word limit: 250)

This is an optional essay. Please read about my feedback in my blog here.

USC Marshall MBA Class Profile and Deadlines

Class Profile : Click here

Application Deadlines : Click here

Sandip Bhattacharya, General Management Program (Harvard), Master's in Creative Writing (Oxford)

Click here to review my clients’ feedbacks, including video testimonials!

Let us help you to write better!

Politicians have speech writers. Journalists use news editors. Famous writers and columnists have an army of professional editors. Don’t you think you also need to have one?

University of Southern California (USC) 2024-25 Supplemental Essay Guide

Early Action: Nov 1

Regular Decision Deadline: Dec 1

University of Southern California (USC) 2024-25 Application Essay Question Explanations

The Requirements: 2 or 3 essays (depending on major selection) of up to 250 words; 2 short-answer lists.

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why , Oddball , Short Answer , Community

How to Write Compelling USC Essays

USC’s application offers a mix of short-answer questions and lightning-round fill-in-the-blank prompts designed to get to know you from different angles. In addition to learning about your prospective major (or majors) and passions, USC seeks to uncover who you are as a person and what you value. To ace these essays, research, brainstorming, and self-reflection will be key: Take the time to carefully consider even the one-word answers to make sure you’re sharing your most authentic self in the most creative way you can. Think about the tidbits you have to offer up as you pull together your application package and make sure you distribute them across the supplement. Try as hard as you can not to be repetitive. And, as much as you can, have fun! Read on to dive into each prompt one by one!

USC Essay Prompts Breakdown

Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests at usc. please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections. (250 word limit).

This is USC’s take on the classic Why essay. In asking how you plan to pursue your interests, admissions is really trying to suss out your core reasons for choosing USC. While college will offer you a wealth of social and professional opportunities, its primary function is academic — and your primary role is as a student. So, what kind of student do you hope to be? Where do you hope your studies will take you? What resources and opportunities does USC offer that will meet your needs and guide you towards your goals?

To answer these questions, set aside an hour or two to pore over the USC website (there’s no hack, you’ve just got to put in the time). Beyond the basic departmental listings, look up information about news and research coming out of your department, the kinds of courses available, the opportunities that other undergrads have had studying in your area of choice. Even if you have a wide array of interests, consider explaining how two to three departments might complement each other or foster your interest in a larger idea or theme. Your ultimate goal is to show that your interest in USC (just like your intellectual curiosity) runs deep!

Describe yourself in three words (25 characters).

Your answers do not need to be so outlandish that admissions needs a thesaurus to look them up, but they should avoid the generalities that so often populate these questions: loyal, kind, smart… you get the idea. We’re sure you are all of these things — and they are lovely qualities to showcase in the stories you tell elsewhere in your other written responses — but these sorts of terms can ring hollow. Think about how different people in your life would describe you. Though this assignment is short, you may need to spend some time wordsmithing different combinations. When the prescribed format is a list, order matters just as much as content, so use every element of the assignment to your advantage!

The following prompts have a 100 character limit:

What is your favorite snack, best movie of all time:, if your life had a theme song, what would it be, dream trip:, what tv show will you binge watch next, which well-known person or fictional character would be your ideal roommate, favorite book:, if you could teach a class on any topic, what would it be.

Behold! USC’s attempt at being quirky! You’ve been limited to less than the length of a tweet for each answer, so you’d better make every word (and character) count! These prompts don’t have time for generalities or gentle introductions, so you’ll have to cut straight to the point. The more specific your words are, the more memorable your answers will be. Favorite snack? Don’t just say, “popcorn and Junior Mints.” How about, “A box of junior mints melting over hot popcorn as I watch a horror movie” (72 characters). If you can paint a funny picture or display a knack for wit, take this chance, but don’t force it. You also don’t exactly have to think of this as filling in the blanks, but more as filling in any blanks in your application. Anything that doesn’t feel like it merits a full essay can go here as a tweet, hot take, punchline, or elegantly-worded sentence.

USC Dornsife Applicants: Please provide an essay of no more than 250 words on the topic below. In your response, we encourage you to write about something that you haven’t already discussed elsewhere in your application.

For more information, please click here ., many of us have at least one issue or passion that we care deeply about – a topic on which we would love to share our opinions and insights in hopes of sparking intense interest and continued conversation. if you had ten minutes and the attention of a million people, what would your talk be about (250 words).

We at CEA love this question because it’s a unique way of asking applicants: what do you care about and why? What’s important to you? What information do you wish other scholarly minds had access to? Start by making a list. Maybe you’d like to use your ten minutes to speak about media literacy and how we can and should consider what we see online through the lens of the powers that dictate how and when we receive information. Perhaps you’d want to spread the word about the dangers of climate change and the irreversible impact it will have on the planet if we don’t take action swiftly. What keeps you up at night? What kind of positive effect do you want to have on the world? These are the questions you should be asking yourself when brainstorming for this prompt. Bonus points if you can speak to how a USC Dornsife education will prepare you to address this issue head-on in the future!

USC Viterbi Applicants:

The student body at the usc viterbi school of engineering is a diverse group of unique engineers and computer scientists who work together to engineer a better world for all humanity. describe how your contributions to the usc viterbi student body may be distinct from others. please feel free to touch on any part of your background, traits, skills, experiences, challenges, and/or personality in helping us better understand you. (250 words).

USC Viterbi School of Engineering wants to accept students who will contribute to diversity on campus. When considering an aspect of your identity or background to expand upon, we recommend choosing one that has had the biggest impact on the way you experience and interact with the world. Ideally, the unique aspect you select should come with a couple anecdotes. Maybe you want to write about your experience as a person living with a disability and how this has shaped your interest in engineering, design, and accessibility. Perhaps you embody #BlackGirlMagic and will bring a fresh perspective to a field in which women of color are underrepresented. Regardless of the part of your identity you choose to address, be specific about how it impacts your worldview and how it will add a distinct perspective to USC Viterbi.

The Engineering Grand Challenges (for USC Viterbi Applicants):

The national academy of engineering (nae) and their 14 grand challenges go hand-in-hand with our vision to engineer a better world for all humanity. engineers and computer scientists are challenged to solve these problems in order to improve life on the planet. learn more about the nae grand challenges at http://engineeringchallenges.org and tell us which challenge is most important to you, and why. (250 words).

Strong responses to this prompt will showcase self-reflection, care for the greater good, and ambition. Review the fourteen Grand Challenges and see which you connect with the most. Maybe you’re passionate about providing access to clean water, since you know firsthand what it’s like to not have that access in your hometown in Michigan. Perhaps you hope to engineer better medicines in honor of a loved one you lost to illness prematurely. Maybe you’ve always been fascinated with outer space and would jump at the opportunity to engineer new tools of scientific discovery. Make sure to relate your own life experiences and/or interests to the challenges the world is facing and emphasize how you’d like to be part of the solution.

Why Choose College Essay Advisors for USC Essays

We at College Essay Advisors have been guiding students one-on-one through the essay writing process for the USC supplements for over twenty years. We take a holistic approach to these essays and short answers, considering each student’s application package as a whole and identifying their strengths to highlight. Our Advisors accommodate each student’s scheduling needs to virtually brainstorm, draft, and revise winning essays. It’s incredibly important to us that each student’s voice is preserved, and we pride ourselves in helping students to write successful USC supplemental essays that differentiate them from similarly qualified applicants. For more information, submit a contact form below or review our one-on-one advising services or list of student acceptances .

About Amanda Amah

View all posts by Amanda Amah »

We're waiting to hear from you!

Frequently Asked Questions

USC asks applicants to write two (2) or three (3) essays, depending on their major selection, and two (2) short answer lists.

The limit is 250 words.

The USC supplemental essays are very important in the admissions process. Admissions officers at USC seek to “enroll a diverse group of students who represent a vast array of perspectives and passions, who will enrich each other’s education by challenging each other, inside the classroom and out.” These essays offer admissions the opportunity to get to know your values and better understand how you will contribute to the diversity of voices in their campus community. In short, they enable admissions to get to know the person behind the application (a.k.a. you!).

Absolutely not. Please do not reuse content from your Common App essay in your USC supplements. Although it’s possible for you to expand upon an idea, activity, or community that you mention in your Common App essay in your supplements, you should never recycle content or any phrasing word for word. Each written response is an opportunity for you to share more information about yourself and your candidacy, so you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not taking advantage.

Applicants will want to avoid silly grammar mistakes , repeating the prompt in their response, and telling rather than showing (e.g., saying you are determined without giving an example of a time you displayed determination).

When you don’t have a lot of words (or characters) at your disposal, ideas reign supreme. Instead of dedicating time to crafting beautiful transitions, like you would for a 500-word essay, most of your time here should be allotted to brainstorming and finding instances where one word can substitute for two. It’s also wise to think about your application as a whole (imagine the same person reading all of your documents in one sitting!), and offer answers that provide new layers to your submission.

"Thank you so much for your help throughout this college app writing process, from the first draft to this final revision. Working with you brought me confidence and relieved a lot of stress, both for myself and my parents. I actually received acceptance from USC, which is really exciting since it's one of my reach schools!"

– CEA Student, USC, Class of 2025

"[My son] got accepted into USC!!! Thank you for all of your help with the supplemental essays, Common App personal statement, and activities section. We're incredibly grateful for your support and could not have done it without you and your team at College Essay Advisors."

– CEA Student, USC, Class of 2027

Contact us for information on rates and more!

I am a * Student Parent Potential Partner School Counselor Private College Counselor
Name * First Last
Phone Type Mobile Landline
Street Address
Address City State / Province / Region Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cabo Verde Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czechia Côte d'Ivoire Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macao Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Réunion Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Sweden Switzerland Syria Arab Republic Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania, the United Republic of Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Türkiye US Minor Outlying Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Åland Islands Country
Which best describes you (or your child)? High school senior High school junior College student College grad Other
How did you find CEA? Internet Search Podcast New York Times Guidance counselor/school Social Media YouTube Friend Special Event Delehey College Consulting Perks at Work Other
Common App and Coalition Essays
Supplemental Essays
University of California Essays
University of Texas Essays
Resume Review
Post-Grad Essays
Specialized Services
Waitlist Letters
Private School Essays
General College Counseling
School list with priorities noted:
Anything else we should know?
Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

School Stats:

Agnes Scott College
Alvernia University
American University
Amherst College
Babson College
Bard College
Barnard College
Baylor University
Bennington College
Bentley University
Berry College
Bethany College
Boston College
Boston University (BU)
Bowdoin College
Brandeis University
Brown University
Bryn Mawr College
Bucknell University
Butler University
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
California Lutheran University
Capitol Technology University
Carleton College
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)
Catawba College
Centre College
Chapman University
Claremont McKenna College
Clark University
Clemson University
Coastal Carolina University
College of Charleston
College of William and Mary
College of Wooster
Colorado College
Colorado School of Mines
Columbia University
Cornell University
Culver-Stockton College
D'Youville University
Dartmouth College
Davidson College
Dickinson College
Drexel University
Duke University
Earlham College
Elon University
Emerson College
Emory University
Flagler College
Fordham University
George Mason University
Georgetown University
Georgia State University
Georgia Tech
Gonzaga University
Hamilton College
Hampshire College
Harvard University
Harvey Mudd College
Haverford College
Hillsdale College
Hofstra University
Howard University
Illinois Institute of Technology
Illinois Wesleyan University
Ithaca College
Johns Hopkins University
Kalamazoo College
Lafayette College
Lehigh University
Lewis and Clark College
Linfield University
Loyola Marymount University (LMU)
Lynn University
Macalester College
Manchester University
Marist College
Mary Baldwin University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Meredith College
Monmouth College
Moravian University
Morehouse College
Mount Holyoke College
New York University (NYU)
North Carolina State
North Park University
Northwestern University
Occidental College
Oklahoma City University
Olin College of Engineering
Pepperdine University
Pitzer College
Pomona College
Princeton University
Providence College
Purdue University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rice University
Roger Williams University
Saint Anselm College
Saint Elizabeth University
Santa Clara University
Sarah Lawrence College
Scripps College
Seattle Pacific University
Seattle University
Siena College
Smith College
Soka University of America
Southern Methodist University
Spelman College
St. John’s College
Stanford University
Stevens Institute of Technology
Stonehill College
Swarthmore College
Syracuse University
Texas A&M University
Texas Christian University (TCU)
The College of Idaho
The George Washington University
The New School
Trinity College
Tufts University
Tulane University
UNC Wilmington
University of California
University of Central Florida (UCF)
University of Chicago
University of Cincinnati
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Florida
University of Georgia (UGA)
University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
University of Maryland
University of Massachusetts Amherst
University of Massachusetts Lowell
University of Miami
University of Michigan
University of Minnesota
University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
College of Mount Saint Vincent
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
University of Notre Dame
University of Oklahoma
University of Oregon
University of Pennsylvania
University of Pittsburgh
University of Richmond
University of Rochester
University of San Diego
University of San Francisco
University of Southern California (USC)
University of Texas at Austin
University of Tulsa
University of Vermont
University of Virginia (UVA)
University of Washington
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Vanderbilt University
Vassar College
Villanova University
Virginia Tech
Wake Forest University
Washington and Lee University
Washington University in St. Louis
Wellesley College
Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI)
Yale University

Want free stuff?

We thought so. Sign up for free instructional videos, guides, worksheets and more!

One-On-One Advising

Common App Essay Prompt Guide

Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

YouTube Tutorials
Our Approach & Team
Undergraduate Testimonials
Postgraduate Testimonials
Where Our Students Get In
CEA Gives Back
Undergraduate Admissions
Graduate Admissions
Private School Admissions
International Student Admissions
Common App Essay Guide
Supplemental Essay Guide
Coalition App Guide
The CEA Podcast
Admissions Stats
Notification Trackers
Deadline Databases
College Essay Examples
Academy and Worksheets
Waitlist Guides
Get Started

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

3 USC Essay Examples By Accepted Students

The University of Southern California is a selective private school in Los Angeles. Its film school is consistently ranked the top in the country, though its other academic programs are incredibly strong as well.

USC requires applicants to fill out a variety of prompts, some in the form of essays and others as short-answer questions. In this post, we’ll go over three essays that helped real students gain acceptance to USC and explain what each essay did well and where it could be improved.

Please note: Looking at examples of real essays students have submitted to colleges can be very beneficial to get inspiration for your essays. You should never copy or plagiarize from these examples when writing your own essays. Colleges can tell when an essay isn’t genuine and will not view students favorably if they plagiarized.

Read our USC essay breakdown to get a comprehensive overview of this year’s supplemental prompts.

(Also, CollegeVine has a ton of other resources for your USC application. Want to learn what USC will actually cost you based on your income? And how long your application to the school should take? Here’s what every student considering USC needs to know. )

Essay Example #1 – 10 Minutes to Change the World

At what point does injustice become background noise?

Bloodied black bodies can be “liked” on Instagram. Gunshots in classrooms are easily reposted via Tiktok. My generation’s digital environment is so overwhelming we’re desensitized. Given the numbing nature of dark humor, youth prefer it over justice. Rape culture is palatable once it’s a punchline. Laughter is more socially acceptable than tears.

A recent documentary about Jeffery Dahmer (which his victim’s family members did not consent to) has led to several callous jokes about his horrifying devastation of the Black gay community. Tiktok now hosts several trends concerning Dahmer, all spearheaded by Generation Z youth.

Humor is a valid coping mechanism, but it’s now a crutch for a generation that needs to start walking on its own.

Why is shock humor desired today? Dark humor was how I grappled with my internalized racism, partly triggered by enduring racial slurs at school. However, the hilarity fizzled out once I realized how counterproductive it was. Now, rather than reposting footage of global tragedies or joking about them, I promote new bills, pro-cause literature, and nonprofits, celebrating the proactivity of our nation.

To begin my conversation, I would address my own desensitization, urging my audience to examine theirs as well. Through my talk, I want individuals to undergo a transformative examination of social media consumption and the role of humor in the face of tragedy. Hopefully, my talk leads them to consider how they can work to alleviate social issues, rather than laughing at them.

What the Essay Did Well

This prompt is incredibly open, which can be both a blessing and a curse: you can write about anything you want, but with that much freedom, will you be able to focus on something specific? For this student, the answer to that question is unquestionably yes, as they do a phenomenal job writing about a creative, nuanced topic, in a way that is clear and easy to understand.

The topic they choose is also personal, which is important. The purpose of any college essay is to teach your readers something about who you are, and if you write about a topic that you know a lot about, but aren’t emotionally invested in (like, say, the different kinds of screwdrivers you learned about while helping your dad with a summer project), your personality won’t shine through.

This student, however, focuses not on racism in general, which is far too broad a topic for an essay this short, but on the problematic ways Gen Z copes with racism. That unique perspective shows that the student both has strong critical thinking skills and can reflect on their own experiences. And to take things a step further, they are also willing to get vulnerable, and acknowledge their own role in perpetuating the very issue they are highlighting, with the section:

“Dark humor was how I grappled with my internalized racism, partly triggered by enduring racial slurs at school. However, the hilarity fizzled out once I realized how counterproductive it was. Now, rather than reposting footage of global tragedies or joking about them, I promote new bills, pro-cause literature, and nonprofits, celebrating the proactivity of our nation.”

In this part of the essay, the student shows a remarkable level of humility, and an ability to work on themselves. While getting vulnerable with a bunch of strangers thousands of miles away is not easy, this especially deep self-reflection is what takes this essay from good to great.

In addition to zooming in on their own character, the student also zooms out from their own experience, to arrive at thoughtful, compelling takeaways that assuredly would hold the attention of a million people. Lines such as “Humor is a valid coping mechanism, but it’s now a crutch for a generation that needs to start walking on its own” and “Given the numbing nature of dark humor, youth prefer it over justice. Rape culture is palatable once it’s a punchline. Laughter is more socially acceptable than tears” show that this student is not only personally invested in this issue, but ready to start taking steps towards solving it.

Lastly, this essay is incredibly well-written and easy to follow. The passionate yet conversational tone stays true to the goal of the prompt (start a conversation!), and because of the writer’s varied sentence structure, we never get bored or want to stop reading.

What Could Be Improved

The main problem with this essay comes in its last paragraph:

“To begin my conversation, I would address my own desensitization, urging my audience to examine theirs as well. Through my talk, I want individuals to undergo a transformative examination of social media consumption and the role of humor in the face of tragedy. Hopefully, my talk leads them to consider how they can work to alleviate social issues, rather than laughing at them.”

Unfortunately, this paragraph doesn’t tell us anything we don’t already know, which unfortunately means the student has essentially wasted 63 words in a 250 word essay. If you write a strong essay (which this student does), you do not need to wrap things up or connect your answer back to the prompt explicitly. Those things will just happen naturally.

Instead of this paraphrased, overly tidy conclusion, the student could have painted a picture of what their talk would look like. For example:

“Hopefully, I can inspire my audience to reflect on their own desensitization, as I did, by describing the time I retweeted ten Trump memes in an hour, and how that did absolutely nothing to help me feel better about the state of the country. Turning away from band-aid solutions and committing to sucking the poison out of the wound is challenging, but I hope that through my talk and conversations my listeners have with each other afterwards, more of us will feel ready to take on that challenge.”

This version doesn’t just summarize points the student has already made, but rather presents us with tangible ways (reflecting on their own low moments; conversations after their talk) they hope to continue fighting back against desensitization.

Essay Example #2 – The Power of Debate

Prompt: What is something about yourself that is essential to understanding you? (250 words)

“Chill. Out.”

Surely my classmates felt annoyed that I had transformed a simple English debate about the existence of the American Dream into a full-on tirade, hands revolving in furious circles, voice emphatically piercing throughout the room. But for me, the slightest mention of a debate, even a minor discussion on the best team in the NFL (Patriots!), unleashes my passionate, borderline bombastic self, determined to conquer the war of words.

Of course, when discussing the merits of pharmaceutical price controls at a debate tournament, my assertive speaking style and quick-thinking become valuable assets. But other times, I find those tendencies to hinder what would otherwise be productive, civilized conversations. Often, a simple discussion about the merits of pineapple on pizza would quickly devolve into a redundant, unproductive squabble. I have to constantly remind myself that not everything needs to be debated endlessly, no matter how much I vehemently disagree (Pineapple on pizza, however, is a TERRIBLE idea).

Yet it is this desire to seek truth and conclusion, to vouch for my beliefs, that drives me to my life endeavors. Whether it be interning at an immigration law firm and fighting for clients’ prosperity or volunteering for a local Board of Education candidate, I strive to focus my love for reasoning and dialogue into avenues that benefit those around me. Pointless debates lead nowhere, but insightful, genuine conversations are essential to addressing the key issues that affect our community. And honestly, pineapple on pizza doesn’t really matter that much anyway.

Not only does this essay start with a one-line paragraph, it starts with two sentence fragments. This is a great way to begin a college app essay, because let’s face it: admissions readers have to plow through hundreds of essays per day. They don’t want to pick apart drawn-out introductions. They want something that’s going to pique their interest, and “ Chill. Out. ” meets this requirement. It immediately creates a drive to read more: what is the conflict here? Who’s saying “chill out,” and why?

Throughout this essay, the writer uses physical and powerful verbs to describe their passion for debating. If you went through the essay with red pen, you’d underline a lot of dynamic action: “ vehemently disagree ,” “ drive ,” “ conquer the wa r,” “ voice piercing through the room .” Words like these involve the reader physically in the action of debate in a way that drier words, like “respond” or “address” would not. As a result, the applicant comes across as enthusiastic and passionate. And, as the icing on the cake, the violent words make the author’s personal growth – their stoic mastery over their passions – resonate as more truthful by the end of the essay. We can appreciate their calm, because we’ve experienced their storm.

By far, the most important element of this essay is its focus on a personal transformation . This applicant could have relished in their success on debate team or the Board of Education, but they don’t – instead, they involve these occurrences in a narrative about their fatal flaw .

Why is this attractive to an admissions reader? Well, because it demonstrates that the applicant is introspective and interested in improving themself in deeply personal ways. For example, it takes humility to insert yourself into the perspectives of others (“ surely my classmates felt annoyed ”). And it takes honesty to 1) identify a problem with yourself and 2) correct your behavior (“ I have to constantly remind myself that not everything needs to be debated ”).

What Could Be Improved

There is honestly very little this student needs to do to strengthen this essay as it already is captivating, passionate, and illuminating. However, a word of caution is to make sure the mood of your essay matches your personality. This essay works because as far as we can tell from what this student tells us about themselves and the activities they engage in, they are outspoken, quick-thinking, and love to exchange ideas. These qualities all lend themselves to a fast-paced, dynamic essay. But if that isn’t you, don’t try and inject powerful language into your essay to have the same impact as this student. Make sure your essay reflects you and the story you are trying to tell.

Essay Example #3 – Admitting You Were Wrong

This essay covers the difficult topics of eating disorders and mental health. If you’re thinking about covering similar topics in your essay, we recommend reading our post Should You Talk About Mental Health in College Essays?

Prompt: USC believes that one learns best when interacting with people of different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Tell us about a time you were exposed to a new idea or when your beliefs were challenged by another point of view. Please discuss the significance of the experience and its effect on you. (250 words)

“You barely have lunch, and I’m worried that you’re not eating enough.”

My face burnt bright red. They know.

It was true, of course. Throughout sophomore year, my daily food intake slowly inched below 1,500 calories, barely enough to sustain a toddler. Six months in, my period halted its monthly cycle – hormonal amenorrhea. Tired, anxious, scared. Yet, nothing deterred the voice in my head from telling me that I would never be small enough.

With an already petite stature, my health was never questioned; people seldom criticized my diet or the amount of space I occupied in a room. Skinny was healthy, and I bought into that myth. Until I started to listen. I listened as my friend confronted me with her concerns. For the first time, I was exposed to a new definition of health detached from fear foods and aesthetics. Not immediately convinced but willing to change, her perspective encouraged me to do the research and reflect on my health subjectively. In the following week, dietetic research papers and videos filled my search history; the verdict was glaringly clear. I was wrong.

Today, I exercise for adrenaline. I eat for fuel. I recognize my worth beyond the number on the scale. Listening to a different perspective was all it took for me to unravel the flaws of my own, and that, as I currently eat the rest of the holiday toffee pretzels unabashedly, is something that I am forever thankful for.

This student opened up about a deeply personal topic in a that really allowed the reader to see the mental and physical effect her eating disorder had on her. We aren’t just told she had an eating disorder and when she was confronted by a friend it changed her perspective; we are shown what she suffered through and what her original perspective was.

Admitting to thoughts about the “ amount of space [she] occupied in a room ” and how “ Skinny was healthy” demonstrates very clearly her mental stance on her body. That contrasts with her admission of her physical health: “ my daily food intake slowly inched below 1,500 calories, barely enough to sustain a toddler ” and “ my period halted its monthly cycle. ” Describing both the mental and physical aspects help us to understand the depth of the struggle she went through and how deeply engrained she was in her current way of thinking.

This essay has a triumphant ending that warms our heart for the student because she was able to find help and conquer her eating disorder. The last paragraph nicely reflects on the effect this new idea had on the student by showing us her new mental approach to food and her weight: “ Today, I exercise for adrenaline. I eat for fuel. I recognize my worth beyond the number on the scale. ” Finishing the essay with her giving thanks for eating “ holiday toffee pretzels unabashedly ” brings a light-hearted conclusion to a serious essay and leaves the reader with a smile on their face for how far this student has come.

While the narrative this student tells is very good, it reads more like an “Overcoming Challenges” essay than a “New Beliefs” essay. This could be fixed with more attention to the encounter with her friend and her subsequent research on eating healthy.

We are simply told, “ I listened as my friend confronted me with her concerns, ” and that through that experience she was “ exposed to a new definition of health detached from fear foods and aesthetics. ” However, what we want to see is how this student grappled with the confrontation and what her mental and emotional response was to learning new information that contradicted her previous assumptions.

Like in the beginning, a quote from her friend would be a nice way to place the reader in the action. This student also provided us with a lot of introspection about her eating disorder, so the essay should pay the same amount of attention to her overcoming it. For example, she might write something like this:

“ ‘We are all concerned for you.’ The sad eyes of my friend roamed over my thinning body, and I heard my heart shatter. I wasn’t just hurting myself, I was causing all my friends and family to worry. ‘I think you’ll like this article.’ Turning her computer around, big bold letters ran across the screen: YOU ARE MORE THAN A NUMBER. I hesitated in the moment, terrified of letting go of the societal message to be skinny that had become my mantra. But as my sunken, tired eyes looked back at me in the mirror that night, I opened up the article and learned just how wrong I had been. ”

Where to Get Your USC Essays Edited

Do you want feedback on your USC essays? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays.

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools. Find the right advisor for you to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

usc marshall sample essays

IMAGES

VIDEO

COMMENTS

2024-2025 USC Marshall MBA Essay Tips and Analysis

USC Marshall MBA Essay Prompts

Essay #1: Career Goals

What admissions committee seeks

How to write this essay

Essay #2: Personal Statement

Essay #3: Additional Information

Final Thoughts

Do you want to get into your dream business school?

Related Posts

A Comprehensive Overview of ISB PGPYL

2024-2025 UNC Kenan Flagler MBA Essay Tips and Analysis

2024-2025 Kelley MBA Essay Tips and Analysis

We are here to assist you!

USC Marshall MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Planning Your MBA Application

Table of Contents

USC Marshall Application and the Role of Essays

USC Marshall Essay Prompts (2023-2024)

Access a library of videos, templates, and examples curated by Leland’s top coaches.

Example Resumes

Application Prep

Video Courses

List of Expert Tips for Each Marshall Essay Prompt

MBA Essay Tips: How to Write Compelling Essays

USC Marshall Essay Examples From Success Admits — With Analysis

USC Marshall Essay FAQs

Browse hundreds of expert coaches

Browse Related Articles

UNC Kenan-Flagler MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Georgetown McDonough MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

UW Foster MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Berkeley Haas MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

UVA Darden MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Duke Fuqua MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Dartmouth Tuck MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Michigan Ross MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Yale SOM MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

CMU Tepper MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

UT Austin McCombs MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

Indiana University Kelley MBA Essays Guide: Overview, Tips & Examples

USC Marshall MBA Essays: Tips for 2024-2025

Career Goals Essay

Teamwork Essay

Optional Essay

Applying to USC Marshall School of Business

Marshall’s Career Goals Essay

Related Articles

Looking for Last-Minute Essay Help?

Which program are you applying to?

USC Marshall MBA Application Essay Tips & Deadlines [2022 – 2023]

USC Marshall 2022-2023 MBA application essays

Marshall MBA essay question #2

Marshall MBA essay question #3

USC Marshall 2022-2023 MBA application deadlines

Additional menu

University of Southern California (USC), Marshall School of Business – MBA Essay Samples

Marshall MBA Essay Sample 2 – Entrepreneur You Admire

ESSAY HELP'S HERE

The USC Marshall Interview – What to Expect + Sample Questions

How the USC Marshall interview works

Who will interview you?

Will the interviewer have read my application?

How long will the Marshall interview last?

SAMPLE MARSHALL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

STARTING UP QUESTIONS

LEADERSHIP & TEAMWORK

MISCELLANEOUS BEHAVIORAL

Real MBA Essays That Got People In

98.9% Success Rate

Recent Articles

How to Successfully Complete the Kellogg Video Essay

How To Successfully Complete the Oxford Kira Video Interview

The Rotman MBA Video Essay Questions – And How to Successfully Answer Them

Ready to start your MBA Success?

USC Marshall Online MBA Sample Essays and Recommendation Letters

Quick Essay Review

USC Marshall Online MBA Letter of Recommendation Questions 2023-24

Step-by-Step Guide

Free download