196
Finance
Banking-Inv.
Sponsored
Chicago-Booth
MBA
School Enrolled: The University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Other Admitted Schools: University of Virginia Darden School of Business, among others
Background: 28 years old (at the time of application), Japanese investment bank, company-sponsored
At my organization, many company-sponsored candidates have used Round One (R1), and I had known about R1 from the very beginning of my application journey—particularly because a close senior colleague who had struggled with test scores was able to gain admission to his first-choice school with R1’s support. I first contacted R1 in July 2021, signed a contract shortly thereafter, and received support through March 2022. I myself struggled with test preparation until the very end, but the reason I was ultimately admitted to Booth—one of my long-admired M7 schools—was R1’s expertise and meticulous guidance.
Below are my impressions of each service and process.
First, R1 worked closely with me to carefully adjust my application portfolio in line with my preferences. Initially, I had only a vague desire to attend an M7 school or a program known for strong case studies, but taking into account my test score situation, Mr. Round continued to advise me on changes and additions to my portfolio right up until just before Round 2 submissions. At the time of Round 1, I did not yet have a truly competitive score, but based on Mr. Round’s advice, I applied to just one school where my GMAT score barely fell within the 80% range. By securing one admission in Round 1, I was able to maintain my morale and fully focus on improving my scores and strengthening other components of my applications for Round 2. I believe my application journey became a satisfying one because this strategy allowed me to pursue further upside with a positive mindset in Round 2.
In addition, Mr. Round responded very carefully and quickly to consultations regarding the content of email drafts to admissions offices, as well as discussions and adjustments around whether and when to take additional GMAT or GRE exams.
Being able to hold two- to three-hour essay counseling sessions at a fixed time each week served as an excellent pace-maker. While there were periods when I was assigned to particularly demanding work projects and felt physically exhausted, having clear to-do items defined for the following week each time allowed me to manage my schedule and ultimately apply to a total of nine schools across Round 1 and Round 2.
In addition, because R1 provided advice on each school’s application itself—including responses to detailed questions embedded within application forms—I was able to complete applications efficiently. Since I was applying in parallel with test preparation, this support was extremely valuable. Some application forms ask applicants to list connections with current students, and thanks to introductions arranged through R1, I was able to meet and connect with current students and alumni and include their names, which was also a great help.
R1 offers three main types of interview training (Type A, B, and C). First, Type A training uses general anticipated questions. Then, Type B training focuses on past questions specific to each target school. Finally, in Type C training, Mr. Round works with clients to develop customized “killer questions” designed to resonate with interviewers. Based on my experience, this approach was extremely effective.
As described above, R1 provided comprehensive support, so there was no need for me to contract with any other counselor. In my case, balancing investment banking work with applications and test preparation was challenging, but Mr. Round consistently encouraged me with warm words of support. Choosing Mr. Round as my counselor was, in my view, the best decision I made throughout the application process.
MBA applications can be demanding in many ways, but for those aiming to challenge their dream schools, I strongly encourage you to consider R1 as a partner in that journey.
