TIPS ON DUKE'S “25 random things about yourself”
This Duke essay always produces a lot of handwringing and dismay from applicants. But Duke is dropping a gift from heaven on an unsuspecting applicant tool. So, ask yourself, what is it that most applicants want most? The chance to differentiate themselves. Well, here it is.
You can differentiate yourself with your content, of course, but also with your approach to this “random” list. You should approach this list with focus, confidence, and intelligence. Most candidates are going to blow this essay. Some will overindulge in the “random” and “fun facts” and others will violate avoiding professional and academic achievements. But not you, of course.
The 'Team Fuqua' spirit and community is one of the things that sets the MBA experience apart, and it is a concept that extends beyond the student body to include faculty, staff, and administration. Please share with us “25 Random Things” about you. The Admissions Committee wants to get to know YOU - beyond the professional and academic achievements listed in your resume and transcript. Share with us important life experiences, your hobbies, achievements, fun facts, or anything that helps us understand what makes you who you are.
Your list will be limited to 2 pages (750 words maximum). Please present your response in list form, numbered 1 to 25. Some points may be brief, while others may be longer. Fuqua.duke.edu
The key to understanding this Duke essay is to have a balanced approach. This approach is going to be best and to achieve this, and we can look to two key places.
Firstly, keep your career goals in mind when drawing up this list. No, don’t repeat your goals because that is another essay. But rather, if you can, in this essay explain the Why and the HOW of your goals in this list.
Secondly, focus more on Duke’s first hint on where to source these items. The first hint is: lists like these allow them to get to know a person’s “personality, background, and special talents.” If you are going to use buckets to source your list, use these.
Here are five examples:
Next fall, I am going to be the best man for my younger brother's wedding. Instead of saving for my own wedding, I'll be saving for business school.
Although I love my Mazda, I don't love that it's over 10 years old. However, my Mazda has taught me patience and how to prepare virtually anything and everything on the car.
I am a diehard Red Sox fan. Win or lose, I love going to games with friends. Whether it's watching the Blue Devils or the Durham Bulls, I plan to organize several outings with my new friends at Fuqua.
At Wonderwall, I had the privilege of working with several international clients. These experiences have made me appreciate the nuances associated with different norms, countries, and peoples; nuances which have made their way into the workplace.
I always vote, whether it's in local, state, or national elections. Even though I represent only one ballot, I know my vote matters because the best way to prep for a brighter future is to do small things today – like vote.
The most important thing to remember is that every “thing” you tell the admissions committee should have a point. Sometimes, it will be a straightforward fact, an accomplishment you are proud of and why. Other times, it might be a lot more appropriately humorous and self-deprecating. Whatever it is, it must provide them greater insight into who you are as a person and what you value or believe.
Click here for further reading, where admissions counselor Claire Garst has some suggestions.