Why I Coach—Ethan Kessinger

“Why bother getting an MBA?” I was shocked to realize I didn’t have a solid answer when my friend asked me this seemingly simple question. As a result, although I had always planned on applying, I took the time to decide IF I should even get an MBA, what made sense for my career aspirations, and the timing that was right. Instead of blindly going after the classic top programs, I made a list of what I hoped to gain from the MBA experience:

(1) formalize the knowledge I was teaching myself at a startup, (2) round out my understanding of different aspects of a business, (3) meet people beyond my Stanford-centric bubble, (4) explore different industries, and (5) prepare to eventually start a company.

After making my list, instead of applying to a general two-year MBA, I found that NYU Stern had a new one-year Tech MBA program that seemed ideal. The early application deadline was approaching, and I had to quickly decide if I should use my current average GRE score, retake the GRE, or take the GMAT. This was a moment when I wished I had a coach – I didn’t have the information or experience to make an informed decision. I took a gamble with my GRE because there were stronger parts of my application and was thankfully admitted.

The Tech MBA program and Stern’s IQ+EQ culture was the perfect fit for me, even though I hadn’t even thought to apply when I first started down the MBA road. Two years after graduating, I am starting an EdTech company which I would not have the skills or confidence to do without this unique path.

When my friend asked me my “Why,” it ignited a process of deep self reflection that allowed me to be intentional about my MBA decision. With new clients, I always start with helping them understand their personal why. Pausing to reflect and clarify motivations is the most valuable part of the application process. Having a coach and comprehensive process for this makes sure you are looking deeply into yourself and asking yourself tough questions. Abraham Lincoln said, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the ax”; this is how we sharpen your ax.

With clear motivations and specific goals, the world opens up beyond applying to any top-tier business school. We will work together to discover what is best for you. There are specialty MBAs, dual-degree programs, locations, or clubs that will turn this experience into a meaningful part of your life instead of simply a degree at the end. By being thoughtful and strategic about choosing which schools to apply to, you are also starting a strong narrative of why they should pick you. That gives us a great head start to creating your application that stands out to the committee, a clear narrative for your interviews, and the confidence that you can make the most out of your experience.

I coach because I want to help applicants like you find the right program–one that will match your life and goals—and be there to provide support along the way. I coach because I care about you finding the perfect fit for you and your unique journey. I can’t wait to get started on Leland!

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Interested in working together on your MBA application? Click here for my Leland coaching profile.