74
Energy
Mktg/Sales
Sponsored
MIT-Sloan
MBA
Thanks to Round One, I was fortunate enough to gain admission to my first-choice school. With sincere gratitude, I would like to share what I see as the key strengths of Round One.
Compared with other well-known professional qualification exams, the MBA admissions market is relatively small, and as a result, there is very little reliable information available in Japan. Even in large bookstores in Tokyo, it is rare to find books that cover application strategy or the distinctive characteristics of individual schools, and at the beginning I had no choice but to proceed largely by trial and error. In that context, encountering Round One and receiving strategic guidance from a true professional was extremely reassuring. Being able to consult them even on minor concerns and receive prompt responses proved far more valuable than I had initially imagined.
From setting and managing the overall application timeline, to selecting target schools based on my test scores and academic interests, to determining the most appropriate timing for applications, Round One consistently provided effective advice. I was able to endure the long admissions process precisely because of the realistic and executable schedule they helped design (although, of course, it was still very demanding during the process).
I learned a great deal from Mr. Round and Ms. Round not only as admissions consultants but also as professionals, and I hold both of them in high regard. Their warm encouragement, often accompanied by humor, was a constant source of support. In particular, the passionate encouragement and advice I received directly from Mr. Round when he was visiting Japan just before an important interview remains a fond memory.
The admissions process can often feel uncertain and stressful, but Round One was a truly reliable partner that continually made me feel, “Let’s keep going.”
Through Round One’s services, I was able to approach essay writing and interview preparation with a clear awareness of “what resonates with Western admissions committees,” which I believe was a major advantage for someone like me with no overseas experience.
Even when essay prompts appear similar on the surface, each school is looking for something different. The advice I received from Round One’s experienced counselors was consistently eye-opening.
The fact that I advanced to the interview stage at almost every school I applied to speaks to the strength of Round One’s support. Because I considered interviews to be critically important, I practiced many times with both Mr. Round and Ms. Round. Their interview training was highly practical and tailored to each school’s tendencies; on several occasions, questions asked during practice appeared almost verbatim in the actual interviews. Without this preparation, I do not think I would have been able to get through the interviews successfully.
All communication with Round One was conducted in English, which initially felt challenging. However, it ultimately became excellent training in thinking in English in preparation for my studies abroad, and I believe it also contributed significantly to improving my English ability.
The alumni and current students I met at each school during the MBA admissions process were all very kind, but I was particularly struck by the extraordinary level of support I received from former Round One clients. The vitality of this network is, in my view, one of Round One’s greatest strengths.
The extensive network that Round One has built across generations and schools was immensely helpful throughout the admissions process. Graduates who were drawn to the character of Mr. Round and Ms. Round generously support newer clients, and those clients, in turn, support the next generation—creating a positive cycle of giving back. (I also hope, in my own small way, to support future Round One clients.)
There is no single “correct” answer when it comes to choosing an admissions counselor, as compatibility plays a major role. However, for those seeking a dependable partner to help them persevere through the demanding admissions journey, I strongly recommend contacting Round One.
