Essay 1
What would you want your classmates to know about you that is not on your resume? 
Word Limit: 100 words
Tips: 
When writing your Darden essay, imagine you’re talking to your future classmates. Keep the tone friendly and conversational this helps admissions picture you in the community.
Focus on personal qualities that don’t show up in your resume. Maybe you’re the person who stays calm in chaos, brings humor to tough situations, or lifts team morale. Highlight traits that show what kind of classmate you’ll be.
Then, connect those traits to real experiences. Instead of just saying you’re supportive or organized, share a short story where those qualities helped a team or project succeed. This adds credibility and depth.
Think about how you’ll contribute to your classmates’ experience at Darden. Will you bring global perspective? A unique leadership style? Show how your presence will add value to group learning.
Keep it concise. Stick to one focused story and reflect on it meaningfully. And finally, don’t repeat what’s already in your resume this is your chance to show a different, more personal side of you.
 

Essay 2
Please describe a tangible example that illuminates your experience promoting an inclusive environment and what you would bring to creating a welcoming, global community at Darden.
Word Limit: 300 words
Tips: 
When writing your Darden diversity essay, focus on actions you’ve actually taken to promote inclusion whether in school, work, or your community. The admissions team wants to see real involvement, not just beliefs or intentions.
Think of diversity in broad terms not just race or gender, but also culture, age, background, experiences, and perspectives. This opens up more meaningful angles for your story.
Make sure to connect your past efforts to what you hope to do at Darden. Mention specific ideas like joining student clubs, organizing events, or leading discussions that reflect how you’ll continue contributing to an inclusive environment.
Add personal meaning by sharing why inclusion matters to you. What experience shaped your perspective? Why is it important in your life?
Finally, balance your essay: spend about half the word count on your past actions, and the other half on your plans at Darden.
 

Essay 3
At this time how would you describe your short-term, post-MBA goal in terms of industry, function, geography, company size and/or mission and how does it align with the long-term vision you have for your career?
Word Limit: 200 words
Tips: 
Start your Darden career goals essay by sharing a personal story or experience that explains what motivates you something that shows why your goal matters to you deeply. This helps the reader connect with your purpose.
Then, clearly define your long-term goal. Focus on the kind of impact you want to make, not just the job title. Show your vision what change do you want to drive in the world or in your industry?
Follow that with your short-term goal right after the MBA. Be specific about the role, industry, and type of company you aim to join. This should clearly connect to your long-term vision.
You can briefly include extra details such as where you’d like to work, company size, or mission if relevant, to show you've thought it through.
Make sure to link your short- and long-term goals. Explain how the first step will help you build toward your bigger vision.
Finally, if there's room, add why Darden is the right place for you. Mention things like the case method, leadership training, or career support that will help you achieve your goals.

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