How Would You Describe Yourself in an INSEAD Essay?

 

When applying to INSEAD, one of the most crucial components of the application process is the essay. This essay serves as an opportunity for applicants to showcase their unique personalities, values, and goals, providing the admissions committee with a deeper understanding of who they are and what they hope to achieve through the program. In this essay, applicants are asked to describe themselves, but this task can be daunting, especially when considering the importance of authenticity and self-reflection. To effectively convey one's identity, it is essential to delve into personal experiences, values, and motivations rather than simply listing accomplishments or skills. By doing so, applicants can demonstrate their ability to think critically about themselves and their place in the world, ultimately making their application stand out.

Personal Background and Identity

When describing your background and identity in the INSEAD MBA essay, it is crucial to highlight the key aspects that have shaped who you are today. Begin by discussing your cultural, educational, and professional background, providing context for the admissions committee. Share your nationality, family background, and any unique experiences that have influenced your values, beliefs, and aspirations.

Cultural Background

Your cultural background plays a significant role in shaping your identity. Discuss your upbringing, the traditions and values you were exposed to, and how they have impacted your worldview. If you have lived in multiple countries or have a diverse cultural heritage, share how these experiences have broadened your perspective and contributed to your personal growth.

Educational Background

Your educational background is an important aspect of your identity. Discuss the institutions you have attended, the subjects you have studied, and the skills you have acquired. Highlight any unique experiences or projects that have challenged you intellectually and helped you develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Professional Background

Your professional background is a crucial part of your identity, as it showcases your skills, experiences, and achievements. Discuss your career path, the companies you have worked for, and the roles you have held. Share any significant accomplishments, challenges, or lessons learned that have shaped your professional identity and aspirations.

Also, identify and explain your core values and beliefs.

Professional Journey and Achievements

Your professional journey is a crucial aspect of your identity and a key component of your INSEAD MBA essay. This section provides an opportunity to showcase your achievements, leadership skills, and the experiences that have contributed to your professional growth. By highlighting your professional journey, you can demonstrate to the admissions committee your potential for success in the INSEAD program and beyond.

Personal Qualities and Strengths

In the INSEAD MBA application essay, it is essential to showcase your personal qualities and strengths. This section allows you to highlight the unique characteristics that set you apart and demonstrate your potential for success in the program. By providing specific examples and anecdotes, you can illustrate how these qualities have been put into action, showcasing your authenticity and self-awareness.

Challenges and Growth

When applying to INSEAD, it is crucial to demonstrate your ability to navigate challenges and grow from them. In this section, you will reflect on significant challenges you have faced and how you overcame them, highlighting the lessons learned and the impact on your personal and professional development. By sharing these experiences, you can showcase your resilience, adaptability, and capacity for self-reflection, ultimately demonstrating your potential for success in the program.

Goals and Aspirations

In the INSEAD MBA application essay, it is essential to clearly articulate your goals and aspirations, both short-term and long-term. This section provides an opportunity to demonstrate how your experiences, qualities, and motivations align with these goals and how the INSEAD program will help you achieve them. By outlining your objectives and the role INSEAD will play in your future, you can showcase your ambition, focus, and commitment to personal and professional growth.

Contribution to the INSEAD Community

When applying to INSEAD, it is crucial to demonstrate how your unique background, values, and experiences will contribute to the school's diverse and dynamic community. In this section, you will discuss how your distinct perspective and skills will enrich the INSEAD environment, highlighting specific ways you plan to engage with and add value to the school. By showcasing your potential to make a positive impact, you can demonstrate your commitment to being an active and engaged member of the INSEAD community.

Conclusion

This essay has provided a comprehensive overview of my background, experiences, goals, and aspirations, showcasing the qualities that make me a strong candidate for INSEAD.