Q) I am a military MBA applicant with service history in Afghanistan. Should I go into the specifics of any operation? Is it necessary for Harvard MBA Essay?

Atul Jose (MBA Admissions Consultant/Author – Harvard MBA Essay Guide, F1GMAT): This is a tricky question. For those who don’t know – Harvard has an open-ended MBA application essay. It is a 900-word essay with the question, “As we review your application, what more would you like us to know as we consider your candidacy for the Harvard Business School MBA program?”.

All your achievements in the military are already highlighted in the resume and application form.

Your supervisors are likely to mention them in their recommendation letters. There is, however, something that is not easily recognized in an application form.

That is the pressure you face in making a decision. The emotion behind it.

That is what Harvard Business School wants to know.

Who are you as a person?