What are your short-term and long-term goals? Why these?

This is an important question that allows you to connect your past, present, and future. Here, you need to clearly explain what your short-term and long-term goals are, and how your chosen college will help you achieve them.

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It’s crucial to bring authenticity, practicality, and clarity to your answer. The panel should feel that your goals are both ambitious and achievable, and that you’ve thought deeply about why you want to pursue them.

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Start by defining your short-term goal - what you want to do immediately after your MBA. Be specific about the role, industry, or function you’re targeting.

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Then, explain your long-term goal, which typically looks 5–7 years ahead. This should reflect your broader vision: the kind of leader you want to become, the impact you want to create, or the industry problem you want to solve.

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What’s important is to show how your short-term goal logically leads to your long-term goal. The progression should feel natural, not forced.

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If you can tie your goals to your personal experiences or professional journey, it adds credibility and depth. For example, you could talk about a project, exposure, or realization that sparked your interest in a particular path.

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Finally, explain how the MBA and this specific school will help you bridge the gap between your current experience and your aspirations. Mention the skills, networks, and opportunities you’re seeking, and how they align with your chosen path.

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In summary, this question is not just about listing goals: it’s about telling a coherent story of growth and purpose that connects your past achievements, present motivation, and future ambitions.

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Step 1: Define Your Goals Clearly

Be specific about the role, function, or industry. Avoid vague answers like “leadership” or “growth.”

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Short-term goal (0–2 years after MBA)	Why this goal makes sense right now

Long-term goal (5–7 years after MBA)	What impact or vision drives this goal

Step 2: Reflect on the “Why” Behind These Goals

Authenticity is key. Talk about personal experiences, realizations, or exposures that shaped your aspirations.

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What triggered my interest in this path
A professional or personal experience that shaped this goal
Skills or learnings I already have that support this direction
Gaps I need to fill through an MBA

Step 3: Show the Progression from Short-Term to Long-Term

The two goals should form one story — not separate ambitions.

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How my short-term goal leads to my long-term goal
Key skills or experiences I expect to gain in the short term
How those will prepare me for the long-term goal

Step 3: Show the Progression from Short-Term to Long-Term

The two goals should form one story — not separate ambitions.

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How my short-term goal leads to my long-term goal
Key skills or experiences I expect to gain in the short term
How those will prepare me for the long-term goal

Step 4: Rehearse

Combine all parts into a 1.5–2 minute story. Read it aloud and ensure it sounds natural and clear.

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