78
Finance
Banking-Inv.
Self-funded
NWN-Kellogg
MBA
I first met Mr. Round in February 2010. From that point, a journey toward an MBA lasting more than two years began between Mr. Round and me.
Before I started the application process, I had an unfounded confidence that everything would proceed smoothly. However, once I began taking the TOEFL and GMAT, that confidence gradually crumbled. No matter how many times I took the exams, my scores did not improve as expected, and I became increasingly anxious. Throughout this period, Mr. Round consistently encouraged me and also provided practical advice regarding the tests. Unfortunately, I was unable to achieve the required scores that year and decided to postpone my applications by one year. Even at that juncture, Mr. Round advised me on what I should focus on during the year ahead in order to set myself up for success the following cycle.
The next year, building on the groundwork laid the year before, my test scores improved earlier in the process. I was also able to develop my essays smoothly by using the previous year’s drafts as a foundation, and the application process progressed steadily. Thanks to Mr. Round’s support, I received offers of admission from approximately 70% of the schools to which I applied, and ultimately, I was admitted to my first-choice school.
When people think of an essay counselor, they often assume the role is limited to essays alone. However, I believe that the most important factor during the application process is whether there is someone who will truly encourage you when things are not going well. Mr. Round did not simply offer words of encouragement; he consistently provided thoughtful and concrete advice. I truly feel that my admission was something I achieved side by side with Mr. Round.
For those who are about to begin the application process, I recommend that when choosing a counselor, you consider whether they will engage with you sincerely, whether their perspective aligns with yours, and whether they are someone with whom you can build a relationship that goes beyond a purely transactional one.
