Darden's copy is in black. My comments are in red for the remainder of this post. 

 Darden 2006-7 Deadlines

Round 1 (Early Action)      October 19, 2006

Round 2                               December 5, 2006

Round 3                               January 11, 2007

Round 4                                March 1, 2007 

2006-2007 MBA Application Essay Questions

Darden made some major changes in wording to its questions this year. All the questions are new. 

1.  Why is an MBA a critical next step toward your short- and long-term career goals? (500 word limit) (Required)

This is the goals essay for Darden. Where are you at? Where do you want to go? And how will an MBA (specifically a general management MBA from a case method school) help you to achieve both your short-term and long-term goals. Slant the essay to show fit with Darden's general management, case-method program structured around study groups and teams.

2.  Each of our applicants is unique. Describe how your background, values, education, activities and/or leadership skills will enhance the experience of other Darden students. (500 word limit) (Required)

Organized around study groups and teams, Darden values collaboration, dialogue, and strong inter-personal skills. To learn more about it, and you should, first review the Darden web site, attend info sessions and receptions, read the blogs of Darden students, and do everything you can to get a feel for Darden. If you can, visit before writing your essays. In addressing this question, write about how you, with your background, values, etc. can contribute to the Darden community.

Realize that you only have 500 words. So use this essay to focus on a  1-3 elements that will allow you to contribute uniquely while at Darden.  This essay is a great way to demonstrate self-knowledge, a little color, and your knowledge of Darden.

3.  Choose one of the following questions. (250 word limit) (Required)

a. What would you do if you didn’t have to work for a living?
b.  Describe a significant maturing experience.
c.  What have been the most satisfying aspects of your work life thus far and the most dissatisfying?

Answer the question that will best complement the required essays and add value to your application. Then using a modified PAR approach, keep it short and sweet. Describe the occupation, experience, or aspects, and then provide a succinct analysis of their importance, or in the case of C, the reasons you found these experiences satisfying or dissatisfying.

4.  If there is further information that you believe would be helpful to the Admissions Committee, please provide it below. (250 word limit) (Optional)

Use this optional essay,  or lose a great opportunity to provide even more reasons for Darden to admit you.

If you would like help with Darden's essay, you still have time to work toward submitting before Darden's Early Action Round 1 deadline. ( A great option if you are committed to Darden.) Plus Accepted.com recently added a Darden Comprehensive Package to its MBA essay editing options. Check it out.