GMAT Club

Melissa Jones Reviews

Company: Fortuna Admissions

Melissa has successfully coached hundreds of candidates from around the world with their MBA applications to top business schools globally, including many acceptances to Columbia, Harvard, Wharton, Stern, and Yale. As one of Fortuna’s first coaches, for over a decade she has a stellar track record of helping MBA hopefuls gain admission to M7 and top 15 US schools, as well as prestigious European schools like INSEAD and LBS. Her success is rooted in a laser eye for talent and a deep understanding of what top business schools are seeking. Her expert support for Fortuna Admissions clients is rooted in her previous experience as Assistant Director for the MBA Program at INSEAD in France. During her tenure, she connected with thousands of applicants and advised them on the admissions process and their path to business school, traveling extensively and delivering countless presentations to candidates across many countries. Melissa was a member of the review committee responsible for selecting scholarship recipients, so she knows what it takes to make the cut. Melissa has also worked in marketing and communications for global brands such as Sony, InBev, and Xerox.

5.0 /5 Average Rating
Based on 61 reviews
January 06, 2025
Nico4120

Joined: Jun 13, 2023

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

Admitted to Top MBA program

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by score report [?]

I was sceptical of admissions consulting services before reaching out to Fortuna. I could not have been more wrong. My experience working with Melissa was nothing short of incredible. Applying to an MBA is a stressful and time consuming process but working with Melissa made it feel easy. The communication was fluid and her feedback on essays, CV, etc was always succinct and helpful. She helped me navigate the application and interview process, which she knows by heart, and built up my confidence along the way. I could not have asked for a better experience – Melissa is genuinely a game changer.

Read More

November 26, 2024
bschool2021

Joined: Apr 09, 2020

Posts: 56

Kudos: 16

Admitted to Top MBA program after Rejection Previous Year

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by post count [?]

After getting a rejection from INSEAD, my dream school, I was determined to turn things around. That’s when I found Melissa, and it was the best decision I made. She immediately understood what I was striving for and helped me revamp my entire application with fresh perspective and strategy.

I just got my admit from INSEAD, and I couldn’t be happier!

Melissa has a rare talent for understanding your unique story and presenting it in the most compelling way. She pinpointed exactly what was missing from my previous application and helped me craft essays that truly reflected my journey, goals, and aspirations.

Her guidance and expertise gave me the confidence I needed throughout the process. If you’re looking for a consultant who is not only skilled but also genuinely invested in your success, I would recommend Melissa 1000%.

She’s more than a consultant—she’s a partner in your success story. Thank you, Melissa, for helping me achieve my dream.

Read More

November 26, 2024
jamescampin

Joined: Nov 25, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

Admitted into INSEAD

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by school email address [?]

Melissa and I started working together in May. For various personal reasons, it was important that I applied by the first INSEAD deadline (early October). Given that I had not yet practiced or taken a GMAT test yet, it was clear that this was going to be a challenge.

We kicked off with a detailed conversation about my motivations, goals, and achievements to date. For the next 5 months, Melissa laid out a clear plan and ensured that I met every deadline we set.

Melissa supported with essay writing, reference prompts, application form filling, and
she also introduced me to an excellent GMAT tutor (Stuart Park).

We went through 4 iterations of essays, 5 iterations of a CV and I took the GMAT test 4 times. Once I received an interview, we also conducted interview practice, which was really helpful.

Beyond providing expert advice, Melissa was incredibly supportive throughout and was excellent at prompting me and managing the process to ensure I hit the deadline I set.
If you are considering applying to INSEAD, I strongly recommend using Melissa to help you get there!

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.
November 15, 2024
illuminatiaf

Joined: Jul 20, 2020

Posts: 1

Kudos: 1

Verified GMAT Classic score:
750 Q48 V45

Admitted to Top MBA program

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by score report [?]

I engaged with Melissa to finalise and fine-tune my applications to INSEAD, Columbia and LBS. As I was already very far in the process, I was more looking for fine-tuning and information from the admissions perspective on my essays, CV and shorter information fields.
I was very happy with the service that was provided and especially also with the speed and flexibility that the hourly consulting services provided. In total, I was able to specifically adapt my CV and essays with further, stronger information and practiced both video and regular interviews in the lead-up. While my personal return was perhaps slightly lower than it could have been due to the standard already being relatively high, I was very pleased with the standard of care, thoroughness and especially peace of mind I got through being able to talk the application through with an expert.

Read More

September 03, 2024
EnergyConsultant

Joined: Sep 03, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

Admitted to INSEAD

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by school email address [?]

I cannot recommend Melissa enough as an MBA coach. Her guidance was instrumental in helping me secure a spot at INSEAD. From our first meeting, Melissa demonstrated a deep understanding of the MBA admissions process and an uncanny ability to pinpoint exactly what makes a candidate stand out.

What sets Melissa apart is her personalized approach. She took the time to get to know me, my career goals, and my unique strengths and weaknesses. This allowed her to help me craft an application that was not only compelling but authentically represented who I am. Her feedback on my essays was invaluable, pushing me to refine my narrative until it was perfect.

Moreover, Melissa’s support went beyond just the application. She provided strategic advice for interviews, helping me feel confident and well-prepared. Her encouragement and constructive feedback made all the difference during this often stressful process.

If you are looking for a coach who genuinely cares about your success and knows how to help you get there, Melissa is the one.

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.
August 28, 2024
KLnation

Joined: Aug 12, 2024

Posts: 6

Kudos: 1

Admitted to INSEAD (Only MBA program I applied)

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by school email address [?]

I applied to INSEAD during round 3 and was thrilled to be accepted, thanks to Melissa Jones. She was incredibly skilled at helping me dig deep into my life to find powerful anecdotes for my essays. Like fitting together a jigsaw puzzle, Melissa expertly tied my stories to what the admissions team sought, resulting in compelling essays. Her deep knowledge of the INSEAD admissions process was invaluable, especially since it was the only MBA program I applied to. Melissa even went above and beyond by preparing me for my interview on a Sunday, ensuring I was fully confident and ready. If, like me, you have no clue where to start with your essays, trust Melissa to steer you in the right direction—she will exceed your expectations.

Read More

May 16, 2024
tldr1000

Joined: Nov 06, 2021

Posts: 39

Kudos: 16

Re-applicant Admitted to a Top MBA program

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by post count [?]

Melissa Jones, a former INSEAD admissions officer turned MBA consultant, brings unparalleled expertise to her consulting practice. Leveraging her insider insights and the collective wisdom of the Fortuna team, Melissa provided tailored guidance for my application. Her unwavering support and diligence were evident as she consistently delivered useful and timely edits, even accommodating early mornings due to time zone differences. Melissa's proficiency in all things related to INSEAD makes her the go-to expert. If INSEAD is your dream school, choosing Melissa is a strategic decision that ensures personalized support and a pathway to success. Thank you very much Melissa!

Read More

May 15, 2024
devikakothari

Joined: Apr 07, 2021

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

Admitted to INSEAD

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by school email address [?]

Highly recommend! I was admitted into INSEAD in R2 for the 25J batch. Melissa was very helpful speeding my process along since I had started my process a bit late for INSEAD. She made sure we both were on top of our task lists and that we were making up for lost time. She also ensured that both her and my admission officers understood who I am as a professional and as an individual. She provided constructive feedback when I was preparing for interviews. I'd suggest her to any student that is struggles to write about themselves like I do as she did a great job in expressing my thoughts into a vision.

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.
February 13, 2024
Jimbo12

Joined: Jan 09, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

Verified GMAT Classic score:
750 Q48 V44 (Online)

Admitted to INSEAD

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by score report [?]

I worked exclusively with Melissa on my INSEAD application, which was the only school I applied to. She was very knowledgeable about the process and what the school was looking for. She expertly pulled together the ingredients from all parts of my life and put them together for the best possible application. She responded quickly to all questions, and worked efficiently on email and Zoom. She was also a rigorous practice interviewer which prepared me well for the real thing. This work culminated in an offer. Couldn't recommend her highly enough! Thank you to Melissa Jones and the Fortuna team.

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.
January 08, 2024
Fijiboi

Joined: Jun 25, 2019

Posts: 2

Kudos: 2

Admitted to UCLA and INSEAD!

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by membership [?]

I recently had the pleasure of working with Melissa as my admissions consultant, and I am beyond impressed with the exceptional service and guidance I received throughout the entire process. From our first interaction to the moment I received my acceptance letters, Melissa demonstrated an unparalleled level of expertise, professionalism, and dedication.

Her in-depth knowledge of the admissions landscape, seamless and efficient communication/feedback, a genuine passion for my story truly sets her apart. Right from the beginning, she invested time in getting to know me – my academic background, professional experiences, aspirations, and unique qualities. This personalized attention was evident in the meticulously crafted application strategy tailored to highlight my strengths and address potential weaknesses.

I always felt supported and confident in the guidance I received. Choosing Melissa was one of the best decisions I made, and I am immensely grateful for the guidance that played a pivotal role in shaping my academic and professional future.

Read More

GMAT ® is a registered trademark of the Graduate Management Admission Council ® (GMAC ®). GMAT Club's website has not been reviewed or endorsed by GMAC.