Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management: Everything You Need to Know

With its straightforward approach to the traditional goals statement and just one other required essay (with two prompt options that applicants can choose from), Cornell Johnson seems interested in getting right to the heart of the issues it considers most valuable when evaluating its applicants. The admissions committee wants to first know your professional aspirations in both the short and long term, along with how you envision benefiting from the Cornell Johnson MBA program and what related strengths you already possess. For the other essay, you can elect to discuss how you see yourself being a contributing member of the Cornell Johnson community or what is special about you that makes you memorable. An optional essay is available, if needed, to address the usual topics of problematic candidacy issues or any outstanding qualifications that might not be represented elsewhere in your application.

In our MBA essay analysis, we provide in-depth guidance on each of Cornell Johnson’s 2025–2026 application essay questions:

• Goals Statement: A statement of your goals will begin a conversation that will last throughout the admissions process and guide your steps during the MBA program and experience. To the best of your understanding today, please share your short and long-term goals by completing the following sentences and answering the enclosed short answer question:
  
  Immediately post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) ____[Role]____ at ___[Company]___ within ___[Industry]___.
  Targeted Job Role:
  Target Job Company:
  Industry:
  
  In 5–10 years post-MBA, my goal is to work as a(n) ____[Role]____ at ___[Company]___ within ___[Industry]___.
  Targeted Job Role:
  Target Job Company:
  Industry:
  
  Please share how you plan to utilize the resources available at Johnson, as well as any personal resources to transition to your immediate post-MBA career goal. (350 word maximum)


• Essay Option 1 – Impact Essay: At Cornell, our students and alumni share a desire to positively impact the organizations and communities they serve. How do you intend to make a meaningful impact on the Johnson community? (350 words maximum)


• Essay Option 2 - The Unique Trait that Defines Me: What is something unique about you that others will remember you by, and how will this trait help you contribute and engage with the Cornell MBA community? (350 words maximum)


• Optional Essay (required for reapplicants): You may use this essay to call attention to items needing clarification and to add additional details to any aspects of your application that do not accurately reflect your potential for success at Johnson (350 words maximum).
  
  If you are reapplying for admission, please use this essay to indicate how you have strengthened your application and candidacy since the last time you applied for admission. Please also review our Application Guide for additional information about reapplying. (350 words maximum.

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