215
Real Estate
Ops/Logistics
Sponsored
INSEAD
MBA
At the time I began considering MBA applications, I was working in investment and development within the real estate and infrastructure sectors. As I continued building my career primarily in Japan, I became increasingly motivated to acquire the skills and global network necessary to compete in a more international investment environment over the long term.
This led me to pursue an MBA. Among the programs I considered, INSEAD became my top choice because it would allow me to study in Singapore—a region closely connected to my professional interests—while minimizing interruption to my career.
As I prepared for the MBA application process, I believed that objective third-party perspectives and structured support would be essential in order to achieve the best possible outcome within a limited timeframe, so I began searching for an essay counselor.
While comparing several services, I was drawn to R1 not only because of its track record of admissions success, but also because of its highly personalized approach to helping applicants develop their individual stories. Ultimately, that was what led me to engage R1.
In addition, even during the initial exchanges, the quality of the feedback was exceptionally high. I strongly felt that the support would go far beyond simple essay editing, and that R1 would serve as a strategic partner throughout the entire process. That was a major deciding factor for me.
Throughout the entire process, the support I received was extremely thoughtful while still maintaining an appropriate level of professionalism.
I never felt excessive pressure. At the same time, important issues were addressed clearly and directly, which created a very effective balance between reassurance and constructive tension.
During the essay development process, the feedback went far beyond simple editing. Significant emphasis was placed on logical structure and consistency of messaging. In particular, many of the revisions focused on how the content would actually be perceived by the reader. This helped me objectively identify and correct ambiguities or logical gaps that would have been difficult to notice on my own.
After the essays were completed, substantial time was also devoted to interview preparation. We conducted interview training sessions covering multiple scenarios and likely lines of questioning.
For example, beyond standard motivation questions, we prepared extensively for deeper follow-up questions and unexpected angles of inquiry. As a result, I was able to remain calm and composed during the actual interview.
Looking back, I feel that the greatest strength of the process was that it enabled me to communicate a clear and consistent story with confidence across every stage of the application.
In the end, I made the decision to apply only to INSEAD. This was based on prioritizing alignment with my long-term career goals above all else.
In addition to its intensive one-year format, I believed that INSEAD’s highly international environment and ability to build a truly global network were exceptionally well aligned with the career path I hoped to pursue. I was also strongly attracted to the possibility of exploring career opportunities in Singapore after graduation.
Through discussions with Mr. Round, I came to reaffirm the importance of maximizing preparation for the school that fit me best, rather than simply increasing the number of applications submitted. As a result, I was fully convinced of the strategy and concentrated all of my efforts exclusively on INSEAD.
Ultimately, I was admitted to INSEAD.
Through this application process, I was able to step back and objectively re-evaluate my career while clarifying the direction I want to pursue in the future. In that sense, the experience itself carried value far beyond the admissions result.
The support I received from R1 was not simply about improving English expressions or polishing essay structure. It deeply addressed the more fundamental question of how to define and communicate my own story.
For that reason, I believe this type of advisory support is especially well suited for applicants who:
Overall, it was an extremely satisfying experience.
Applying to only one school allowed me to focus my preparation efficiently and without distraction, but at the same time, it created substantial pressure.
The reason I was able to carry that challenge through to the very end was because of Mr. Round’s character and the thorough support he provided throughout the process.
Thank you very much.
