Thirty-five exemplary application essays, chosen by admissions officers from top business schools around the country, are presented with the intention of inspiring people applying to business schools. The essays prove that such pieces of writing do not have to be boring and stuffy with pretentious wording. An accurate, enthusiastic reflection of the writer's personality can make for a refreshing and successful essay. The essays here are loosely grouped into the following seven groups: essays that discuss strengths and weaknesses; ethical essays; essays about work experiences; essays about the MBA; essays about accomplishments; extracurricular essays; and off-beat essays. Introductions to each grouping are based on author research and comments submitted by admissions officers along with the essays. Applicants wrote on such subjects as starting one's own airline, the corruption in a job as a defense contractor, and dealing with a father's alcoholism. A copy of an article (reprinted from "Business Week") is included and discusses the importance of the essay in business school application. (SM)