Testimonial #

Industry

Function

Funding

School

Program

117

Technology

Product Mgmt

Sponsored

Stanford-GSB

MSx

Testimonial #: 117

Industry: Technology

Function: Product Mgmt

Funding: Sponsored

School: Stanford-GSB

Program: MSx

Overview

Matriculated school: Stanford University

Consultant: Stephen Round

“They’re professionals”

Around the end of July 2014, I was informed that I had been selected by my company as a study-abroad candidate, and from that point I had to begin preparing for the GMAT, essays, and other requirements within a very short timeframe. Under these circumstances, a colleague who had just returned from studying at MIT introduced Round One to me, saying simply, “They’re professionals.” I had the opportunity to meet Mr. Round in person while he was visiting Japan and explain my situation. When he said, “We should support you,” my journey with Round One began.

The characteristics of Round One, as I see them, are as follows.

  • They have a deep understanding of Japanese applicants and provide appropriate advice on how clients should approach overseas universities.
  • They accurately grasp each client’s background and work together with the client to develop strategies and tactics for essays and interviews.
  • They respect the client’s intentions and never impose their views. At the same time, when a client is feeling stuck, they skillfully draw out ideas.
  • They provide meticulous support even in communications with universities.
  • In preparing for university interviews, Stephen and Emma divide roles and offer objective analysis and advice.

In my mid-40s

As someone in my mid-40s, the key point of differentiation between myself and other candidates—most of whom were in their 30s—was how effectively I could showcase and articulate my depth of experience through essays and interviews. Through my sessions with Round One, I was able to carefully consider questions such as “How should I link my own experience to the essay topics specified by the university?” and “How should I present myself in interviews?” and ultimately build a strategic and logical package encompassing my essays and interview preparation.

A prolonged period of intense pressure and difficult moments

From the time I submitted my applications until I received acceptance from the university, I communicated with admissions offices on numerous occasions. For each of these interactions, I received extremely detailed support, including guidance on wording and tone. In addition, while my TOEFL and GMAT scores were stagnating, I still had to prepare for interviews, which created a prolonged period of intense pressure and difficult moments. Throughout this time, Mr. Round consistently encouraged me, and in the end, I was able to secure the opportunity I was aiming for.

Appropriate advice

Round One takes the time to thoroughly understand each client’s background and provides appropriate advice on how best to approach each university. I highly recommend their services.