Prompt 24: Gratitude guidance for MBA applicants (and how thinking about what you're grateful for can help with your essays)

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Prompt 24 Format

Part 1:

Why is practicing gratitude important during the MBA process?

Part 2:

What are [insert number] tips on how to incorporate gratitude into your daily routine during the MBA application process?

Part 3:

What are [insert number] questions that can inspire an MBA applicant to reflect on what they are grateful for in their life, both past and present?

Part 4:

I am a prospective MBA student applying to [insert program name]. Could you please use my Essay Notes below to write an essay draft answering the following [insert program name] application essay question: [insert program application essay].

Essay Notes to base MBA essay on: [insert question or question answers from Prompt 24 Part 3].

Prompt 24 Example

Part 1:

My Question: Why is practicing gratitude important during the MBA process?

Microsoft Copilot Response: Practicing gratitude during the MBA application process is important for several reasons:

• Mental Well-being: The MBA application process can be stressful and demanding. Practicing gratitude helps maintain a positive outlook, reducing stress and anxiety. It can improve your overall mental health, making it easier to handle the pressures of applications, exams, and interviews.
• Resilience: Gratitude fosters resilience by helping you focus on the positive aspects of your journey. When faced with setbacks or rejections, a grateful mindset can help you bounce back more quickly and stay motivated.
• Relationships: Expressing gratitude strengthens your relationships with mentors, peers, and recommenders. Acknowledging their support and contributions can lead to stronger, more supportive connections, which can be invaluable during the application process and beyond.
• Self-awareness: Reflecting on what you are grateful for can increase your self-awareness. It helps you recognize the experiences and people that have shaped your journey, which can be beneficial when writing personal statements and preparing for interviews.
• Positive Impression: Demonstrating gratitude in your interactions with admissions officers, alumni, and current students can leave a positive impression. It shows that you are appreciative, humble, and considerate—qualities that are often valued by MBA programs.
• Focus on Growth: Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have achieved and learned. This growth mindset can enhance your personal and professional development, making you a more compelling candidate.

Part 2:

My Question: What are 10 tips on how to incorporate gratitude into your daily routine during the MBA application process?

Microsoft Copilot Response: Incorporating gratitude into your daily routine during the MBA application process can help you stay positive and focused. Here are 10 tips to help you practice gratitude:

• Gratitude Journal: Start or end your day by writing down three things you are grateful for. This can be anything from a supportive friend to a productive study session.
• Thank You Notes: Regularly write thank you notes or emails to people who have helped you, such as mentors, recommenders, or peers. Expressing your appreciation can strengthen your relationships.
• Mindful Moments: Take a few minutes each day to reflect on what you are grateful for. This can be done during a walk, while having your morning coffee, or before bed.
• Positive Affirmations: Begin your day with positive affirmations that include gratitude. For example, "I am grateful for the opportunities I have today."
• Gratitude Jar: Keep a jar where you can drop in notes about things you are grateful for. Over time, you can revisit these notes to remind yourself of the positives.
• Share Gratitude: Share what you are grateful for with friends or family. This can be a part of your daily conversations and can help spread positivity.
• Reflect on Challenges: When facing challenges, try to find something positive or a lesson learned. This can help you maintain a grateful mindset even during tough times.
• Gratitude Apps: Use apps designed to help you practice gratitude. These can provide prompts and reminders to keep you consistent.
• Volunteer: Giving back to your community can foster a sense of gratitude. Volunteering can remind you of the positive impact you can have on others.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate small achievements throughout the application process. This can help you stay motivated and grateful for your progress.

Part 3:

My Question: What are 25 questions that can inspire an MBA applicant to reflect on what they are grateful for in their life, both past and present?

Microsoft Copilot Response: Here are 25 questions that can inspire an MBA applicant to reflect on what they are grateful for in their life, both past and present:

• Who has been a mentor or role model in your life, and what have you learned from them?
• What is a significant challenge you have overcome, and what did you gain from that experience?
• Which educational opportunities have had the most impact on your personal and professional growth?
• What are some of the most memorable moments from your career so far?
• Who are the people in your life who have supported you unconditionally?
• What skills or talents are you most grateful for, and how have they helped you?
• What are some of the best pieces of advice you have received, and who gave them to you?
• How have your family and friends contributed to your journey?
• What are some of the most rewarding projects or initiatives you have been part of?
• Which experiences have shaped your values and beliefs the most?
• What are some of the small daily joys that you appreciate?
• How has your education prepared you for the MBA journey?
• What are some of the key lessons you have learned from your failures?
• Who are the colleagues or teammates you are grateful for, and why?
• What personal qualities do you appreciate most in yourself?
• How have your travels or cultural experiences enriched your perspective?
• What are some of the most impactful books or resources you have encountered?
• How has your community or network supported your ambitions?
• What are some of the achievements you are most proud of?
• How have you grown as a person over the past few years?
• What opportunities have you had to give back or help others?
• What are some of the most inspiring moments you have witnessed?
• How have your hobbies or interests contributed to your well-being?
• What are some of the unexpected blessings or opportunities that have come your way?
• How has your perspective on success and happiness evolved over time?

Reflecting on these questions can help you appreciate the journey you have been on and recognize the many sources of support and inspiration in your life.?

Part 4:

My Question: I am a prospective MBA student applying to Emory University - Goizueta Business School . Could you please use my Essay Notes below to write an essay draft answering the following Emory University - Goizueta Business School application essay question: Our lived experiences shape who we are and the aspirations we have. As a values-driven community, we care about what has shaped your life. Please share what or who has had the biggest impact on your life.

Essay Notes to base MBA essay on:

• In 2017, I was named a Journalism and Women Symposium (JAWS) Fellow.
• More information about Jaws can be found here: “The Journalism & Women Symposium is in its 39th year of advancing the professional empowerment and personal growth of women in journalism and advocating for more inclusive coverage of the diverse experiences and cultures that comprise our society. We believe that by advancing women in journalism, we transform the world. We are a powerful network of women committed to supporting one another with the friendship, knowledge, tools and career advice we need to succeed at every stage of our careers. We hold an annual conference, regional meetings, online trainings and robust dialogue throughout the year. We believe in paying it forward. We partner with other journalism diversity organizations to hold the evolving world of journalism to its own highest standards of inclusive and equitable staffing and reporting, for women and for other historically underrepresented groups.” Being named a fellow and getting to meet other fellows was very empowering and helped me understand the power of the written word.”

Microsoft Copilot Response:

Certainly! Here is a draft of your essay:

In 2017, I was honored to be named a Journalism and Women Symposium (JAWS) Fellow. This experience has had a profound impact on my life, shaping both my personal and professional aspirations.

The Journalism and Women Symposium (JAWS) , now in its 39th year, is dedicated to advancing the professional empowerment and personal growth of women in journalism. It advocates for more inclusive coverage of the diverse experiences and cultures that comprise our society. By advancing women in journalism, JAWS aims to transform the world. This mission resonated deeply with me, as I have always believed in the transformative power of the written word.

As a JAWS Fellow, I had the opportunity to meet and learn from other fellows who were equally passionate about journalism and its impact on society. The annual conference, regional meetings, online trainings, and robust dialogue throughout the year provided a platform for us to share knowledge, tools, and career advice. This community of women, committed to supporting one another, empowered me to pursue my career with confidence and determination.

One of the most significant aspects of being a JAWS Fellow was the emphasis on paying it forward. JAWS partners with other journalism diversity organizations to hold the evolving world of journalism to its highest standards of inclusive and equitable staffing and reporting. This commitment to inclusivity and equity has inspired me to advocate for these values in my own work and to strive for excellence in all that I do.

Through my involvement with JAWS, I have come to understand the immense power of the written word. Journalism has the ability to inform, inspire, and drive change. This realization has fueled my passion for storytelling and my desire to use my skills to make a positive impact on the world.

The experience of being a JAWS Fellow has not only shaped my professional aspirations but also my personal values. It has taught me the importance of community, mentorship, and advocacy. As I pursue my MBA at Emory University - Goizueta Business School , I am eager to bring these values to the program and to continue growing as a leader who is committed to making a difference.