66
Consulting
Banking-Inv.
Self-funded
NWN-Kellogg
MBA
I had heard this phrase from many who had gone before me, but when I first began pursuing an MBA, I did not understand at all what “a long and lonely battle” truly meant. Now that it is over, I sincerely believe there is no more accurate expression than this.
I believe the MBA admissions process is far more demanding than those who are currently selecting an essay counselor may imagine. It begins with preparing for the TOEFL and GMAT, followed by what feels like an endless cycle of essay writing and application preparation, and then interview practice. Even looking back now, it feels overwhelming to recall the journey.
This may sound as though I am trying to intimidate those aspiring to business school, but precisely because it is such a demanding battle, I want applicants to find a partner they can truly trust to help them see it through.
Because I was applying while working in the United States and did not attend any preparatory schools, I believe my case was somewhat unusual.
Normally, applicants form study groups at TOEFL or GMAT prep schools, encouraging one another and exchanging information. In my case, I simply worked through tasks quietly at home, day after day. In other words, my only source of admissions-related information was my essay counselor—and my only source of encouragement and motivation was also my essay counselor.
As such, it would not be an exaggeration to say that choosing the right essay counselor determined the success or failure of my MBA application. In my search for the best possible counselor, I spoke with more than ten business school graduates before ultimately deciding on Round One. I am confident that this decision was the right one.
Those who consider applying for an MBA are, without exception, strong-willed and highly-motivated individuals. However, during the preparation process, everyone inevitably encounters obstacles.
I myself wrote so many essays that at times my writing began to feel trite, and I found myself wondering whether this would really be enough to gain admission. Embarrassingly, I must have emailed Ms. Round countless times simply saying, “I’m exhausted…”
At those moments, Mr. Round and Ms. Round encouraged me firmly yet supportively, helping me regain my focus.
The advice provided by Mr. Round and Ms. Round was consistently precise and often eye-opening.
Although business school essay questions often appear very similar, the answers each school seeks can differ significantly. By following the guidance they provided, I was admitted to four top business schools and achieved such success that I declined interview invitations from several other schools.
Please believe in yourself until the very end, and place your trust in your essay counselor as you move forward.
