ISB PGPpro essay 1: One of the key intrinsic element at the Indian School of Business is “to develop principled, future leaders who improve lives around the world…" Please discuss how you will contribute towards this mission based on examples of your past work and activities? (400 words max)

GyanOne analysis: The essay topic seems to scream leadership all over, but they don’t quite mean something that necessarily creates a dent in the universe. They want to see how you will create results and impact, in your own way. Please note that there is no expectation from them that this should only be social impact (a common misconception that many applicants have). You could show how you will use your abilities to contribute to your organization, your community, or even accomplish a future objective like starting a venture that will create value.

Therefore, in many ways, this is really a goals question that does not directly ask for goals (but still expects them). ISB asks for examples of past work, so be sure to connect this with what you have done in the past. For example, saying that you want to make social impact without much evidence of past social contribution will not be taken well.

Finally, don’t forget to relate this vision to how ISB will help you. Research into the school and its resources will be critical here. Try to go beyond generic factors like alumni strength, ranking, prestige, and peer group. This exercise is also useful to determine how the program will actual help in your career growth, and be pivotal to your future career objectives.