Northwestern University

Walk me through your resume. What is the story you are telling with your career path?

Do not simply recite jobs. Explain the intentionality behind each transition. What did you learn? Why did you move? What gaps were you trying to fill? Show that your career has been deliberate, not random.

Tell me about a time you led a team or initiative. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?

Focus on how you brought out the best in your team, not on your individual brilliance. Did you listen to your team? Did you acknowledge their contributions? Did you help them grow? That is what Kellogg wants to hear.

Why Northwestern Kellogg? What specifically attracts you?

Go deep and specific. Reference the culture of collaboration, KWEST, specific clubs or programs, what you learned from Kellogg students you have spoken with, or why the location in Evanston matters to you. Show real research.

Describe a time you worked on a team where you were not the leader. What did you contribute?

This question is assessing whether you can thrive in a collaborative environment without needing to be in charge. Show that you added value, that you listened to the leader, that you brought perspectives that were valued.

Tell me about a time you worked with someone very different from you. How did you navigate that, and what did you learn?

Kellogg's strength is its diversity. Show that you value different perspectives, that you are curious about how others think, and that you learn from people outside your background or industry.

What does 'give more than you take' mean to you? How have you embodied this in your career?

This is the core question assessing whether you understand Kellogg's culture. Give a specific example of how you have been generous with your time, knowledge, or networks. Show that this value aligns with who you are.

Tell me about a time you failed or made a significant mistake. What did you learn, and how did you respond?

Choose a real failure, not a humble-brag. Own it completely. Explain what you learned and how you changed your behavior as a result. Show humility and growth mindset.

How do you hope to contribute to the Kellogg community?

Do not say 'I will be a good student and do well in class.' That is generic. Think about what you bring to community: a perspective, a skill, a network, mentorship, emotional support? How will you lift your classmates up?

Tell me about someone who has challenged your worldview or taught you something unexpected.

Show that you are open to learning from anyone—a mentor, a peer, someone from a different background or industry. Show how that experience changed you.

What is an area where you want to develop or grow at Kellogg?

Be honest about an area where you have a gap. Maybe you want to develop finance skills, or expand your global perspective, or learn how to lead more effectively. Show that you are self-aware and growth-oriented.

What are your short-term and long-term career goals? How will Kellogg help you achieve them?

Be specific about your goals. Connect them to Kellogg resources: specific clubs, alumni networks in that industry, coursework that aligns with your interests.

Tell me about a time you had to influence others without formal authority.

Show that you can drive change and bring people along even when you do not have a title that gives you authority. This is what real leadership looks like.

How do you receive feedback? Tell me about a time you received critical feedback and how you responded.

Show that you do not get defensive. Show that you genuinely listen and adjust your behavior. Vulnerability and willingness to improve are strengths at Kellogg.

Do you have any questions for me?

Always have 3-4 thoughtful questions. Ask about the student experience, the classroom culture, what your interviewer's favorite class was, how students collaborate on projects. Show genuine curiosity.