Allison Nelson

I’ve been helping students with applications for 20+ years. I love working with clients to discover what makes each unique, and how to craft their story to stand out with admissions officers.

As Editor of The Harbus (the HBS newspaper) while a student, and former President of a literary magazine and publishing company, my skills as a writer and storyteller help my clients secure offers from top schools including HBS, Wharton, Booth, Haas, INSEAD, and many more. I’ve also successfully supported applicants for specialty programs including dual degrees, deferred, executive and part-time programs. My direct, honest, and supportive style leads to success!

Aside from admissions work, I have significant experience as an executive across multiple industries. In addition to working in investment banking at Credit Suisse and in consulting at Bain, I've founded several companies including a chain of wine bars, and held executive positions for both start-ups and larger companies, including a publicly traded e-commerce company where I led a division of 750 employees.

I’m also an active volunteer who dedicates time to mentoring start-up entrepreneurs, supporting women in business, and working with low-income communities on resumes and mock interviews. I provide applicants with insight into best interviewing practices since I’ve led the recruiting programs for several companies, accelerators, and VC firms. Additionally, I’m a Board Member of the Harvard Business School Club of Arizona and President of the Wellesley-in-Phoenix Alumnae Association.

I received a BA in Chinese Studies from Wellesley College. While earning my MBA from HBS, in addition to serving as the Editor-in-Chief of The Harbus, I also held the position of VP of The Women’s Student Association. I received the President’s Award at graduation and a Harvard fellowship that provided funds for tuition.

I’m currently dividing my time between Arizona and Washington State, with frequent visits to my two children who are graduate students at Harvard and Penn Carey Law.