How Accepted helped me get accepted

I applied to 7 top US MBA programs last year, interviewed at 5, and, IMO, I didn't bomb any interview except one. I don't know what happened, but I didn't manage even a Wait-list, let alone an acceptance. I turned to Jennifer (referred to me by a trusted adviser) for a ding analysis on a couple of applications to get some insights on what went wrong. Jennifer's reviews were sharp, and provided me with a starting point on how the Admissions Committee views applicants. It set the tone for a period of self-reflection I later went into.

I decided to apply to Columbia ASAP, but I faced a major roadblock - I didn't know how to represent my candidature as a re-applicant. I turned to Jennifer again, and she really helped me re-align my goals and think about ways I could draft a strong re-applicant essay. Not only did she provide accurate reviews, but also enabled me to draft better essays (answering the "why" and "how" rather than just the "what"). I think this helped me turn around my CBS application this time.

In essence, I enjoyed working with Jennifer - got to learn a whole lot of tips and tricks of writing stellar essays. I would highly recommend taking Jennifer's help in b-school applications. And, having said all of that, Jennifer provided the best insights in the shortest time-frame possible (I took Accepted's hourly services, and for the number of hours I purchased, I don't think any admissions consulting firm can provide as much as Jennifer did).

Having said that, when I look back, I realize what turned it around for me at CBS - Jennifer's recommendation on why I should write the optional essay. :)

Cheers!