We posed questions to admissions officials at the Cornell University S.C. Johnson Graduate School of Management regarding the application process, what they look for in applicants, and what sets their school apart. These are their responses:

1. What can applicants do to set themselves apart from their peers?

Each applicant has something unique about them. It can be a personal story, a fun or unique fact, or just something simply innate to their personality. It is common to assume the GMAT or where you attended undergraduate school sets someone apart; and while that is very important, it doesn't necessarily tell us much about you. Additionally, an applicant who is genuine about why they want to be at our school certainly helps them stand out. However, do not be disingenuous about this.

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2. What do you look for in the application essays? What do the essays tell you about a candidate?

Overall, the essays provide a way to ask questions not found anywhere else within the application. It is the vehicle for someone to be more creative and provide more detail into their life and experience rather than simply checking a box. Each school may appear to have similar questions or use different questions that will help a candidate understand what is important to the school. For example, we ask: "You are the author for the book of Your Life Story. Please write the table of contents for the book." We encourage applicants to approach this essay with their unique style. We value creativity and authenticity. We get a lot of information about an applicant's personal story as well as what has brought them to this point in their life.