Empowering future leaders to land the MBA of their dreams. 🚀 From higher ed executive to entrepreneurial innovator, I've spent years on the frontlines of Graduate Management Education, shaping how tomorrow’s leaders are formed. Now, I’m bringing that experience directly to you, connecting ambitious minds with the right MBA paths to unlock their full potential. Because where there’s a will, I find the way.
To Round 1 or not to Round 1?
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This last week, I had many conversations with candidates who are eager to submit in Round 1 even though their applications are gently whispering "I'm not ready". It’s understandable to feel the pressure to apply earlyBut unless you are fully confident this is the strongest possible MBA application you are capable of, please take a deep breath and consider submitting in Round 2 instead. Round 1 has better odds but only for the really strong applicationsThe Round 1 applicant pool may be smaller but it tends to comprise highly qualified and well-prepared candidates. These early action takers have invested considerable time and effort in their applications, enhancing the overall quality of the pool. The good news: You still have timeDelaying your application to Round 2 can be daunting. But imagine the confidence of submitting an application that truly reflects your potential! A strong Round 2 application beats a weak Round 1 one every time. So, don’t rush. Instead, focus on presenting the best version of yourself. With a bit more preparation, you can ensure that your application truly reflects your capabilities. How an MBA AdCom worksNow, for those of you who are certain you’ve put together the strongest possible application, you may be curious how it will be evaluated by the MBA AdCom. Let’s pull the curtain on exactly what goes on in an MBA admissions committee and how MBA admissions decisions are made: ​
​ Onwards and upwards, Petia P.S. My Round 2 roster is filling up fast. This summer, I had to say “no” to many candidates who waited too long to reach out. When I get to capacity, I will no longer accept any new Round 2 candidates. This is because in order to maintain the high touch personalized service my candidates come to work with me for, I can only work with a small number. If you are interested in working together and haven’t talked to me, schedule a free consultation while I still have available spots. The sooner we start working together, the more you benefit. |
My MBA Path
Empowering future leaders to land the MBA of their dreams. 🚀 From higher ed executive to entrepreneurial innovator, I've spent years on the frontlines of Graduate Management Education, shaping how tomorrow’s leaders are formed. Now, I’m bringing that experience directly to you, connecting ambitious minds with the right MBA paths to unlock their full potential. Because where there’s a will, I find the way.
It's that time of year again. MBA candidates who entered the race with high hopes but faced rejection are asking for ding analyses. Reviewing their failed apps is heartbreaking. Why? Because too often I find a ton of potential left untapped. Here’s how it usually plays out When we speak, the candidate sounds fun and interesting. Their resume presents great. Then I open their “What matters most to you and why?” or “What experiences have shaped who you are, how you invest in others, and what...
What the Strongest Applicants Actually Do There’s a misconception in MBA admissions that only candidates who are struggling or insecure seek out help from admissions consultants. That if you’re smart enough, you should be able to do it all on your own. But here’s what actually happens: The strongest candidates are the ones who are most likely to bring in outside expertise. They know they have a shot at top programs, and they’re not about to leave things to chance. So they seek...
Happy New 2025! I’m not much for New Year’s resolutions. Instead, I like to reflect — on the choices we make, the paths we take, and the questions that guide us along the way. In the last days of 2024, I had the joy of celebrating with one of my Round 1 MBA ABC stars. She had just ended her year with the ultimate champagne problem: deciding between Stanford and HBS. (Yes, both.) A Space to Ask, Refine, and Shine In our conversation, she shared something that stuck with me. What drew her to...