What should I focus on in a James Madison University business major essay?

For a James Madison University business essay, focus on qualities that fit JMU’s College of Business: initiative, collaboration, ethical judgment, communication, and a clear interest in solving real-world problems. JMU’s business programs are known for teamwork, professional preparation, and applied learning, so your essay should show how you think and work, not just that you want a business degree. The strongest angle is usually one specific experience where you noticed a problem, took action, and learned something about leadership or decision-making.

Avoid writing a broad essay about “wanting to be successful in business” or “loving leadership.” Instead, pick a concrete moment: organizing a fundraiser, improving a club process, helping with a family business, starting a small project, managing conflict on a team, or analyzing something practical like costs, demand, or customer behavior. What matters is not how impressive the activity sounds, but whether the story reveals judgment, responsibility, and follow-through.

If possible, connect your experience to why business is the right academic path for you. For example, maybe a project made you interested in supply chains, marketing, finance, or entrepreneurship because you saw how decisions affect people and outcomes. That kind of connection feels stronger than simply saying you are interested in business because it is versatile.

Show action, reflection, and growth. Keep the essay grounded in one or two vivid experiences, and let your values and working style come through clearly.