Testimonial #

Industry

Function

Funding

School

Program

206

Finance

General Mgmt

Sponsored

Penn-Wharton

MBA

Testimonial #: 206

Industry: Finance

Function: General Mgmt

Funding: Sponsored

School: Penn-Wharton

Program: MBA

Best possible outcome

This summer, I will be enrolling at my first-choice school, Wharton.

I am studying abroad with company sponsorship, but there were very few people within my organization whom I could consult. Balancing demanding work responsibilities with the application process was both physically and mentally exhausting, and there were many moments when I felt close to giving up. Thanks to Mr. Round’s support, however, I was able to achieve the best possible outcome, for which I am deeply grateful.

Aspects of Round One’s support that I found particularly valuable

MBA applications are far more challenging than most people initially expect, and I believe that choosing the right counselor to accompany you through the process is a critical factor that can ultimately determine the result.

Below, I would like to share the aspects of Round One’s support that I found particularly valuable, in the hope that they may be of some help to others.

  • Comprehensive, end-to-end support across all aspects of the MBA application process, including CV preparation, essay development, advice on recommendation letters, and interview preparation. Because all application materials and interview responses must be consistent as a single narrative, having Mr. Round review everything was extremely beneficial.
  • Counseling schedules designed based on more than 28 years of experience, taking into account the work demands and age profile of Japanese applicants. I found this approach to be very efficient.
  • Careful and customized application strategies tailored to each individual’s circumstances and preferences.
  • Exceptionally fast responses to questions and concerns. In particular, when urgent issues arose around application submission deadlines or when interview dates had to be decided on the spot, receiving immediate advice was immensely helpful.
  • Detailed essay counseling and flexible scheduling. In my case, I applied to a relatively large number of schools due to a lack of confidence in my chances, but even during the year-end and New Year holidays, counseling sessions were arranged flexibly. The sense of reassurance that support was always available—especially as deadlines approached—was beyond words.
  • Mr. Round’s personal character. In addition to his thoughtful advice, there were times when I struggled with test preparation and nearly gave up on applying to top schools. During those moments, he consistently offered warm encouragement, saying things like, “You only live once,” “You are free to challenge yourself,” and “It’s a steep mountain, but we’re climbing it together.” In the end, I was admitted to multiple schools, and I truly believe that this outcome would not have been possible without Mr. Round’s support.

A rare opportunity for deep reflection

The MBA application journey is truly tough, but looking back, it was also a rare opportunity to reflect deeply on my life and think carefully about what I want to pursue going forward.

Through Mr. Round’s counseling, I was able to engage in this self-reflection and consider my future “dreams,” which helped me realize that an MBA is ultimately a step toward achieving broader goals.

For those who are planning to apply, those who are still undecided, and those facing a variety of circumstances, I strongly encourage you to contact Mr. Round and start by having a conversation. I am confident that you will gain valuable insights.