162
Energy
Product Mgmt
Sponsored
Emory-Goizueta
MBA
MBA Applications Starting from a TOEFL Score of 46
School enrolled: Emory Goizueta Business School
To explain what makes Round One exceptional, I would first like to share my background. I had absolutely no experience living overseas, and when applying to university, I failed every entrance exam that involved English—English was truly my weakest subject. Even after graduating from university, I joined a purely domestic Japanese company and worked in an environment where I did not even have opportunities for overseas business trips. However, due to my long-standing complex about English and upon the recommendation of a supervisor I deeply respected, I decided to apply for my company’s overseas MBA sponsorship program. This was in September 2016.
At the time, my TOEFL score was 46 (I barely exceeded the company’s internal TOEIC requirement of 750, so I applied using that score). When I successfully passed the company-sponsored selection in October 2016, my MBA application journey truly began. From that point onward, it goes without saying that I struggled tremendously with test preparation. Even so, I believe that I was ultimately able to gain admission to a school at the level my company expected only because Mr. Round and Ms. Emma accepted me despite my extremely poor English ability and continued to encourage me throughout the process. I believe the strengths of Round One can be summarized in the following three points.
As many others have also written, one of Round One’s greatest strengths is that they manage not only essay counseling and interview training, but the entire application process. Around the summer, they provided precise guidance on when to begin GMAT preparation and when to take the exam. Thanks to this, whether fortunately or unfortunately, I used all five GMAT attempts without regret. They also gave clear direction on when to begin preparing applications based on my score situation, which meant I never found myself panicking right before submission deadlines. This level of oversight was invaluable for someone like me, whose score preparation lagged behind, and allowed me to focus on studying with peace of mind.
In addition, during the fall and beyond, they reviewed every single email draft sent to admissions offices. They also advised me on post–campus visit surveys and similar communications. Given my extremely weak English skills, this support was tremendously reassuring.
Next, thanks to Round One’s strategy regarding school selection and application timing, I was able to complete the application process without regret. Some applicants choose to forgo applying to so-called dream schools if their scores at the time of application are not strong enough. I, too, considered giving up on my dream schools after seeing my scores at the end of December. However, Round One encouraged me to apply to schools appropriate for my current scores while also supporting my desire—and potential—for improvement by pushing me to apply to dream schools as well.
In February, after submitting my Round 2 applications, my scores finally came together. I then pursued score reviews and continued challenging my dream schools until the very end. Ultimately, I was not admitted to those particular schools, but had I not applied at all, I know I would have deeply regretted it. Being able to finish the application process without regret is something I owe entirely to Round One’s advice.
Finally, and most importantly, both Mr. Round and Ms. Emma are truly wonderful people. They have a deep understanding of Japanese culture. When I achieved a good score, they celebrated with me, and when I struggled, they encouraged me. They even shared in my joy when I had a child. I truly believe that I was able to persevere through the entire application process thanks to their encouragement. Steve, Emma—thank you very much.
In closing, to all applicants: MBA applications require many sacrifices, and results are often slow to appear, making the process extremely anxiety-inducing. Round One provides comprehensive, efficient, and warm guidance, always pointing you in the right direction. If you are feeling uncertain or anxious, I strongly encourage you to consult with Round One.
