Rotman Application Essay Tips, 2023-2024
Rotman is all about “spike factor,” asking you to upload one to three of your “spikiest” pictures (optional) and select 500 words to explain why these pictures showcase your “spike.” Even on campus, you can feel the excitement and positive momentum of this program firsthand. From the juxtaposition of old and new buildings woven seamlessly together to create the best of tradition and innovation, to the entrepreneurial opportunities provided by the Creative Destruction Lab and the transformative experiences offered to students through the Self-Development Lab, Rotman is a school steeped in spike factor!
This essay should be fun to answer, providing you with a creative way to show Rotman what makes you a unique and valuable addition to the school’s community.
Rotman provides this introduction to consider for the essay:
Our admitted students stand out by doing interesting things with their personal and professional lives — something we describe as the ‘spike factor’; what are the things that you have done in your life that demonstrate Passion/ Grit/ Resilience/ Innovation/ Drive/ Ambition and more? This can cross all or any aspects of life outside of work – hobbies, volunteerism, awards, entrepreneurial ventures, sports and the arts. We believe that exposure to a rich diversity of viewpoints makes for a superior learning experience, and pride ourselves on building a diverse class of exceptional individuals who will go on to make the School proud as professionals and alumni.
Written essay
Explain your spike factor (something unique about yourself) that you believe will contribute to the Rotman community and is aligned with Rotman values. (up to 500 words)
Optional – Please upload 1–3 of your ‘spikiest’ pictures to the supplemental items section of your application here. Note: Your photos must be uploaded as a single PDF.
Here are some tips from Stratus for answering this question:
- Think about your key strengths and accomplishments, and select photos that show this in an engaging way. “Spike factor” allows you to highlight your resilience, grit, and determination in setting and reaching ambitious goals.
- Photos are optional, but consider them low-hanging fruit to bring your application to life and make you more memorable in the eyes of the admissions committee.
- You might also think of this like “the Tokyo test”—something we have heard recruiters mention. Is this person interesting enough that I’d be happy sitting next to them on a flight to Tokyo? Make sure you share something interesting—and this can expand beyond work to interesting hobbies, sports accomplishments, businesses that you have started, charities you’ve founded or supported, etc.
- Organically weave your career goals around the picture(s) you upload—ideally, one of those photos may help inform what you’d like to do after Rotman.
- Think about not just what you can get from Rotman, but also how you will bring value to the Rotman community through the photos and explanations you share.
- It may help to use a CAR (Challenge/Action/Result) model as you provide support for the examples you share.
- Presence and communication are valued by Rotman in the admissions process, so be sure to upload a visually appealing and well-written submission. Edit, proofread, and pay attention to details.
Video interview
Required video interview (2 questions) with a new timed written response component (10 minutes in length).
Rotman’s holistic application also includes a video interview portion and a written prompt. Kudos to Rotman for innovating in asking a question that is fun to answer! The school’s website provides further details about how to approach the video questions.
Are you considering applying to Rotman? Whether you are looking for comprehensive MBA admissions consulting, hourly help, or perhaps interview prep, we at Stratus Admissions Counseling can help you! Sign up for a free consultation today!