One of the most distinctive elements of NYU Stern’s MBA application is the EQ Endorsement, a requirement that reflects Stern’s core value of IQ+EQ. This endorsement emphasizes the school’s commitment to admitting students who combine intellectual strength with emotional intelligence.
Here’s what applicants need to know about this unique component and how to approach it strategically.
What Is the EQ Endorsement?
NYU Stern defines emotional intelligence as including self-awareness, empathy, communication, and self-management. In their own words:
“IQ+EQ is a core value of NYU Stern, and we seek exceptional individuals who possess both intellectual and interpersonal strengths. Emotional intelligence (EQ) skills such as self-awareness, empathy, communication and self-management are at the core of our community of leaders. Please provide one specific and compelling example to demonstrate the applicant’s emotional intelligence.”
This part of the application is about how you interact with others and how you demonstrate emotional insight in challenging or collaborative situations.
How to Choose Your EQ Endorser
The EQ endorsement is required to come from your current supervisor. However, if asking your manager would create professional risk, such as revealing your MBA plans prematurely, you are permitted to choose an alternative. In that case, you should explain the situation in your application. Acceptable alternatives include a former supervisor, a colleague in a leadership role, or another professional contact who is familiar with your work and supports your MBA goals.
NYU Stern also gives applicants the option to submit a second EQ endorsement. If you choose to include one, this person should know you well, either personally or professionally, and be willing to dedicate time to writing a thoughtful and specific endorsement.
In either case, consider selecting individuals who demonstrate strong emotional intelligence themselves. People with a high EQ are often better at identifying and articulating these qualities in others, which can lead to a more compelling and credible endorsement.
Choosing the Right Example
The endorsement must include a specific and compelling example of your emotional intelligence. Vague statements or general praise will not stand out. Instead, your endorser should share a real situation that they personally observed and that clearly illustrates how you handled a situation with self-awareness, empathy, or strong interpersonal skills.
Strong examples might include:
- A time when you helped resolve a conflict at work
- A situation where you showed adaptability or growth after receiving feedback
- A moment when you mentored or supported a colleague or teammate
- A story that highlights your ability to stay composed under pressure while being mindful of others
Ideally, the example should touch on at least two of the EQ qualities that Stern highlights on their website.
How the Example Should Be Structured
Encourage your endorsers to use the STAR format when sharing the story:
- Situation: What was happening?
- Task: What was your role or responsibility?
- Action: What did you do to manage the situation?
- Result: What was the outcome and what impact did it have?
This structure makes the story easy to follow and ensures it focuses on the qualities Stern is looking for. The more detailed and specific the example, the more powerful the endorsement will be. A vivid, well-observed story is far more effective than a general statement.
Should You Help Guide Your Endorsers?
Yes, you should play an active role in guiding your endorsers. That does not mean writing the letter yourself, but it does mean preparing your endorsers with examples, context, and a clear understanding of the EQ framework. Offer to provide them with notes about what Stern is looking for and share stories or experiences they may have witnessed but not fully remembered.
Your endorsers will play an important role in your application, and you should not leave their recommendation letters to chance. At Oriel Admissions, we work closely with MBA applicants to identify the right endorsers, prepare them for successfully completely an EQ conversations, and ensure the overall application aligns with NYU Stern’s values. To find out how Oriel Admissions can support you on your applications, contact us today.
