Status: First-time applicant
Pre-MBA industry: Investment Banking/Private Equity
Years of experience at time of matriculation: 6
GMAT/GRE score: 760 (V: 46 Q: 49)
Undergraduate GPA: 4.0/4.3
Admitted to: Columbia, Wharton
Scholarship(s): $170,000
Service Type: Premium
I spoke with several consulting firms and chose SOP because of SOP’s personal and structured approach, with an experienced team guiding me through each step of the process with layers of reviews. Working with the SOP team on the Square One Assessment and career narrative helped me reflect on my career and personal journey thus far, and think deeply about my priorities, forming the building blocks of a convincing application. As I only planned to apply to some of the most selective business schools, I knew that the application process would be challenging. And I really appreciate Kathryn’s honest and constructive feedback, and more importantly showing me a viable path to get there (which eventually worked out well).
I worked with Lara in the application process. Lara was responsive, encouraging and strategic throughout the process. She took the time to get to know me, and dug deep into my personal stories and career motivations through rounds of calls and written communications (at times bringing up qualities that I wasn’t fully aware of). I would not be able to come up with a unique and differentiating story without all these conversations. I also appreciate how the team would push far for me to submit the best application possible, even if that meant I would have to re-write my essays and brainstorm additional topics that better highlight my values and qualities. I really enjoyed the conversations which helped me not only build a solid application, but also learn about myself. There were also unexpected turns throughout the application process but with the help and expert advice from the SOP team, I was able to smoothly navigate the various challenges. Working with Lara and Cristina, my partnership manager, also helped me to manage my time to prepare quality applications with sufficient time for review, despite my hectic work schedule.
With the help of the SOP team, I was able to secure offers at 2 M7s (one with a substantial scholarship), and waitlisted at another. I am glad that I chose to work with the SOP team to achieve success in my applications and would recommend the team to any future applicants.