At an online forum for aspiring MBA students, participants are discussing an application essay (400 word limit) for a top ten program:
Applicant 1: Quick question guys! How stringent is the word limit? I am at 423 words.
Applicant 2: I wouldn’t worry about it. I’ve been following the +10% max rule.
Applicant 3: mmm… it’s not like they count the words right? I’m thinking if you don’t push it too much, they won’t even notice.
A suggested essay topic for the above applicants: “Discuss the importance of corporate ethics, respect for the law, and sound editing skills. Compare the above applicant statements to the principles displayed in recent accounting and financial scandals.”
The actual essay topic in question: “What is your greatest example of leadership and what personal qualities helped you succeed in that role? (400 word limit).” How about a 500 word essay on thinking outside the box?
This is unfair. The number of words on an essay says nothing about ethics or responsibility.
Let me guess… You wrote what you think was the perfect essay to your school of choice within the word limits, and were rejected for being an idiot, but now blame those who wrote 430 words because you think they’re only beat you out by having more space? Pathetic.