GMAT Club

Kelsey Kephart Reviews

Company: Embark MBA

EmbarkMBA is a boutique MBA Admissions consulting firm founded by former M7 Adcom. My superpower is helping applicants craft materials that sound and feel like them. Since 2017, I’ve helped hundreds of MBA-hopefuls - 97% have succeeded, with 59% receiving scholarships (an average of $143k). I achieve this by simplifying the application process, providing individualized and tailored advice, and spending time to deeply understand you.

5.0 /5 Average Rating
Based on 23 reviews
October 03, 2024
jsnlee657888

Joined: Oct 03, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

Kelsey is the true MVP

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by school email address [?]

In life, there are moments where you make really important decisions because your instincts were telling you to do so and for me, that was working with Kelsey to get into my dream program.

Do you know what the difference between Kelsey's admission consulting services vs. other admission consulting services? transparency & she wants to ACTUALLY hear your story. To be honest, I had approximately 7-8 "intro" calls with other consulting services and Kelsey was truly different. She responded quickly, honestly, and even gave me a boost of confidence when I was being too hard on myself. Which was a truly refreshing experience.

Even though I always wanted to pursue my MBA, I had doubts about applying to my dream program as it was a very selective business school (T15) and convinced myself that I wasn't a strong enough candidate, having a low GPA & no-brand undergraduate program. When I connected with Kelsey, she provided new perspective and told me that I can be optimistic about my chances.

Since MBA essays can be a very unnatural way of writing about yourself, Kelsey really helped me craft a "unique" and "personal" story on my essays that I believe was key to my admission at my dream program. She was extremely quick on her responses and even if Kelsey's responses were quick, it helped me move from inch by inch to taking leaps in my essays.

Kelsey should be the golden standard of how an admission consultant should be and as a former skeptic of using admission consultants in the past, Kelsey really changed my perspective so if you're ever looking for a consulting service or MBA coach, Kelsey is your person and you will not regret it!

Read More

verify-zero-posts
This reviewer has not participated on GMAT Club but it is a REAL person and a REAL review. GMAT Club has verified this test-taker's identity through GMAC/Pearson Vue Score Reporting system or .edu email address and confirmed that this reviewer indeed took the GMAT, is unique, and has not submitted multiple reviews.
September 23, 2024
lonewolf66

Joined: Oct 31, 2021

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

IDK where I would be without Kelsey!

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by membership [?]

I am so excited to recommend Kelsey from Embark MBA for their exceptional coaching services. Kelsey possesses a profound understanding of the admissions process and the unique challenges applicants face. Her personalized approach not only helps students identify and articulate their strengths but also empowers them to craft compelling narratives that resonate with admissions committees.

She provides invaluable insights into school selection, application strategies, and interview preparation and ensuring that each applicant feels confident and well-prepared. Kelsey's dedication, expertise, and supportive nature inspire students to reach their full potential. I wholeheartedly endorse Kelsey as an outstanding coach for aspiring business school candidates.

Read More

August 20, 2024
gmcapdev555

Joined: Jan 21, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

I don’t usually leave reviews, but Kelsey absolutely deserves one! As a social science major, I struggled to articulate my story in my MBA application, especially with a less-than-ideal GPA and GRE scores. However, Kelsey took the time to truly listen to my story, supported my aspirations, and helped me identify and highlight the strengths in my application. Thanks to her guidance and expertise, I was accepted into my top choice—Columbia Business School!

When I first applied to MBA programs on my own, the results were disappointing. But then a friend recommended Kelsey, and the difference was night and day. With her experience as a former admissions member at an M7 school, she understands the process inside and out. She didn’t just help me refine my essays and resume; she guided me through every aspect of the application process, addressing all my questions and concerns. I couldn’t be happier with my decision to work with her.

If you want to be efficient with your time (I spent 10% or less of the time on my Columbia application with her compared to when I did it alone) and, even more importantly, achieve the results you’re hoping for (I got into my top choice!), I highly recommend working with Kelsey.

Read More

verify-zero-posts
This reviewer has not participated on GMAT Club but it is a REAL person and a REAL review. GMAT Club has verified this test-taker's identity through GMAC/Pearson Vue Score Reporting system or .edu email address and confirmed that this reviewer indeed took the GMAT, is unique, and has not submitted multiple reviews.
July 30, 2024
RossPerkins

Joined: Jul 24, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

Verified GMAT Classic score:
Canceled

Hire Kelsey, She is the best you'll find.

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by score report [?]

Stop looking for other consultants. Kelsey is the best. I talked to every major consultant available, and could have hired any of them. I chose Kelsey and I could not have gotten into my dream mba program without her.

Kelsey worked in adcom, and it shows. She really works to bring the best our of you. Most consultants are glorified essay/resume editors. Kelsey takes the time to get to know you, your story, goals, and helps you communicate those in the most effective way. The application process is stressful, but Kelsey makes it simple and easy. Hire Kelsey and thank me later.

Read More

verify-zero-posts
This reviewer has not participated on GMAT Club but it is a REAL person and a REAL review. GMAT Club has verified this test-taker's identity through GMAC/Pearson Vue Score Reporting system and confirmed that this reviewer indeed took the GMAT, is unique, and has not submitted multiple reviews.
July 20, 2024
mbaconsultreview

Joined: Jul 20, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

5/5; would definitely recommend!

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by school email address [?]

I highly recommend EmbarkMBA’s (EM) admissions consulting services and would use them if I had to do it all over again!

My initial approach was to start with an inclusive package for one school and then complete the remaining eight myself. However, I was so impressed with EM’s that I applied to all nine schools with the founder’s guidance. This resulted in acceptance to my top choice and five other schools.

I chose EM because of the founder’s experience at a top MBA program and the exceptional client service. I was especially impressed by the speed and quality of the feedback sessions. EM also played a crucial role as a motivational coach, encouraging me during moments of self-doubt throughout the application process.

I advise those considering a consultant to do a free introductory call with EM to see if there’s a fit. Best of luck!

Read More

verify-zero-posts
This reviewer has not participated on GMAT Club but it is a REAL person and a REAL review. GMAT Club has verified this test-taker's identity through GMAC/Pearson Vue Score Reporting system or .edu email address and confirmed that this reviewer indeed took the GMAT, is unique, and has not submitted multiple reviews.
May 20, 2024
nicosahi

Joined: May 16, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

I Wish I Had Done This Sooner

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by score report [?]

When I was waitlisted for my top program, a current student recommended reaching out to Embark MBA. I'm going to be honest, I was very skeptical about the concept of a consultancy for admission to a top MBA program. Now that I've accepted a spot at the program, I can confidently say that my only regret is not working with Kelsey sooner.

The reality is, the MBA application process can feel like a total black box, and getting in as an entire skillset that you need to build once, only to then throw it all away once you've been accepted to the program. Kelsey, on the other hand, gently reveals the process from a place of experience, with unmatched insight and expertise. She centers your distinctive contribution, and helps you tell your story in a way that is most compelling to an admissions committee, rather than contorting you into something else.

I am so pleased to have been accepted to my program of choice (with scholarship!) off of the waitlist. Every hour I spent working with Kelsey went further than 10 hours of toiling away on my own. Run, don't walk!

Read More

May 18, 2024
breck1412

Joined: May 13, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

Verified GMAT Classic score:
770 Q49 V47

Round 3 Success + saved my mental health during the process

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by score report [?]

I wasn't sure if applying to my dream program at a highly selective business school (M7) in R3 was the right approach, but after a consultation with Kelsey -- who was very honest about the process and the chances -- I knew that she would be the one to help me maximize my chances in such an unpredictable round. And yes, I got in and even received some scholarships!

I chose Kelsey over other services because: (1) she offered a lot of flexibility in the process, both in terms of time commitment and cost; (2) she didn't try to push her services on me, but instead let her insight and knowledge speak for themselves; and (3) she worked very efficiently (quick feedback turnarounds and effective 1-1 sessions).

While it's impossible for me to prove any counterfactuals (i.e. could I have gotten in without Kelsey?), I still would have chosen to work with her in retrospect. She made the entire essay writing process so much less agonizing. Whenever I was stuck, she was immediately available to help me brainstorm other approaches or keep encouraging me. With the internal deadlines she helped me set (upon my own request), I actually finished my application ahead of time, which had never happened to me before. Moreover, I was much less stressed throughout the process, because Kelsey was there to emotionally support me every step of the way as well. Results aside, for these reasons alone, I don't regret a single penny.

Thank you Kelsey!

Read More

verify-zero-posts
This reviewer has not participated on GMAT Club but it is a REAL person and a REAL review. GMAT Club has verified this test-taker's identity through GMAC/Pearson Vue Score Reporting system and confirmed that this reviewer indeed took the GMAT, is unique, and has not submitted multiple reviews.
May 13, 2024
Benbadi

Joined: Aug 08, 2022

Posts: 35

Kudos: 4

Verified GMAT Classic score:
730 Q50 V38 (Online)

Kelsey is the Best

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by score report [?]

Kelsey was recommended to me by a student and friend who got admitted to NYU. From the moment I started working with her until all my applications were submitted, she was incredibly responsive and caring while maintaining a high level of professionalism.

I truly enjoyed working with Kelsey. She helped me to reflect more deeply on my journey and to showcase my unique characteristics to the schools I applied to. Without her guidance, I would not have been able to present myself as effectively. Her support was instrumental in my successful admissions to two Top 10 schools with scholarships during a particularly challenging application round!

Additionally, she didn't count the hours spent helping me, often providing guidance beyond regular work hours. She was very accessible, making it easy to chat with her at any time.

I highly recommend Kelsey to anyone looking for a thoughtful, professional, and effective admissions consultant.

Read More

May 02, 2024
Art6870

Joined: Aug 21, 2022

Posts: 2

Kudos: 0

Verified GMAT Classic score:
650 Q44 V35

My Coach and Cheerleader

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by score report [?]

Candidly, I was working with another admissions counselor before going to Kelsey. About 3 weeks before application deadlines, and after hundreds of dollars with another counselor and still feeling like I was getting nowhere close to my applications being ready, I reached out to Kelsey and thankfully she was able to help me out! Within a few days we were able to craft a compelling “Why MBA” essay that I was able to utilize across several applications – and an essay I felt confident about submitting!

Working with Kelsey was truly a joy. A few things to highlight. 1) Kelsey is a previous admissions counselor which I think is a huge plus because she knows exactly what is being looked for across all aspects of the application. 2) I think Kelsey genuinely cares about the students that she works with – she isn’t like other consultants who just want to make money. Not only did she help me with essays, but also kept me motivated throughout the process. She was truly one of my biggest cheerleaders. 3) Kelsey is very efficient! She always got back to me with edits in less than 48 hours, and was very fast with edits, saving me time and money. 4) Kelsey was great at ensuring my personality and unique characteristics came out in my essays – she made sure that my voice was honored. These really helped me standout during this extremely competitive year.

Results: In total I applied to 6 six schools and received admission to all 3 M7s (including Wharton), 2 T15s, and was waitlisted at one place. Not only did I receive acceptances to 5/6 programs, but I also was awarded over $450k in scholarship money! I genuinely don’t believe I could have done this without all of Kelsey’s work during the application. My only regret is that I didn’t go to Kelsey earlier!

If you are looking for a MBA coach, I ensure you there is no one better!

Read More

April 18, 2024
sohan8494

Joined: Apr 18, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

Verified GMAT Classic score:
720 Q50 V38 (Online)

Embark MBA gets the job done!

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by score report [?]

I went to Embark MBA with one goal of getting into Haas and by the end of our intro call I had found the consultant to help me with my MBA application. While other consultants questioned my Berkeley or bust approach and made me second guess, Kelsey took the time to understand my background, was onboard with my MBA goals and helped me submit the best version of my application. Throughout the process Kelsey was supportive, authentic and positive which really helped my confidence.

Working with Kelsey on my essays was the best part of my application journey. To begin with, she provided me the admissions committee perspective (thanks to her background) which enabled me to cater my essays accordingly. She provided genuine feedback and insight on what my essays lacked and worked with me to address it. Our conversations enabled me to share aspects of my profile above and beyond the generic essay content.

At the end of the day, Kelsey is brilliant at what she does and genuinely cares about her clients. You can’t ask for anything else! Working with her is the best decision one can take towards their MBA goals!

Read More

verify-zero-posts
This reviewer has not participated on GMAT Club but it is a REAL person and a REAL review. GMAT Club has verified this test-taker's identity through GMAC/Pearson Vue Score Reporting system and confirmed that this reviewer indeed took the GMAT, is unique, and has not submitted multiple reviews.
GMAT ® is a registered trademark of the Graduate Management Admission Council ® (GMAC ®). GMAT Club's website has not been reviewed or endorsed by GMAC.