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Embark MBA Admissions Consulting Reviews

Embark MBA 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.
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Embark MBA Admissions Consulting Reviews

Embark MBA Consulting Services
$4000
Reviews
55
Average Rating
5
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Most Reviewed Embark MBA Consultants

Kelsey Kephart
Reviews
57
Average Rating
5.0

AI Super-Summary of Customer Reviews for Embark MBA*

Kelsey is consistently praised for her exceptional admissions consulting services, assisting numerous clients in gaining acceptance to top MBA programs, including M7 schools, often with scholarships. Formerly part of an admissions committee, Kelsey's insider knowledge is invaluable, offering personalized, empathetic, and transparent guidance. She excels in helping clients craft unique personal narratives, improve essays, manage stress, and strengthen interview skills, effectively simplifying and optimizing the application process. Many clients highlight her prompt, comprehensive feedback, reasonable pricing, and genuine investment in their success, making her highly recommended as a supportive and efficient consultant.
9 users mention "Supportive"
  • "the application process is stressful, but Kelsey makes it simple and easy...." Read more
  • "Kelsey was there every step of the way...." Read more
  • "It was so easy and motivating to work with her...." Read more
  • "Kelsey centers your distinctive contribution, and helps you tell your story..." Read more
  • "providing encouragement and tough love in equal parts..." Read more
  • "Kelsey was supportive, authentic and positive..." Read more
  • "she was immediately available to help me brainstorm other approaches or keep encouraging me..." Read more
  • "she was truly one of my biggest cheerleaders...." Read more
  • "help me reframe my entire perspective..." Read more
7 users mention "Admitted"
  • "Her guidance helped me receive multiple offers, including an accepted offer from an M7...." Read more
  • "being admitted into Wharton and Columbia (with $$)!..." Read more
  • "helped me get accepted to 2 M7s (including my #1 choice program) and 2 T15s..." Read more
  • "got into multiple M7s, was awarded a full scholarship..." Read more
  • "I was admitted to all three schools I applied to: Stanford, Harvard, Columbia...." Read more
  • "I went to Embark MBA with one goal of getting into Haas..." Read more
  • "I ended up with several acceptances including my dream program, Wharton!..." Read more
7 users mention "Responsive"
  • "She responded quickly, honestly, and even gave me a boost of confidence when I was being too hard on myself...." Read more
  • "Kelsey is extremely responsive (most of the time you get an email reply within 10 minutes)..." Read more
  • "Kelsey is very responsive to emails...." Read more
  • "Extremely responsive. She routinely was answering texts within minutes, and over the holidays no less!..." Read more
  • "impressed by the speed and quality of the feedback sessions..." Read more
  • "Speedy delivery of feedback..." Read more
  • "She was very accessible, making it easy to chat with her at any time...." Read more
5 users mention "Scholarship Awarded"
  • "got into my top choice Columbia Business School..." Read more
  • "I ended up getting full-tuition scholarships at both CBS and Stern..." Read more
  • "scholarships amounting up to a full ride!..." Read more
  • "pleased to have been accepted to my program of choice (with scholarship!)..." Read more
  • "I got in and even received some scholarships!..." Read more
5 users mention "Detail-Oriented"
  • "guided me through every aspect of the application process, addressing all my questions and concerns..." Read more
  • "She s a master at editing, distilling complex stories into concise, impactful narratives..." Read more
  • "she provided me the admissions committee perspective..." Read more
  • "provided valuable tactics for handling unexpected moments..." Read more
  • "so many school-specific insights and resources..." Read more
4 users mention "Non-traditional Backgrounds"
  • "As a social science major, I struggled to articulate my story..." Read more
  • "My resume was not adorned with mentions of blue chip companies..." Read more
  • "my unique characteristics..." Read more
  • "feeling very overwhelmed at the application steps..." Read more
4 users mention "Full Service"
  • "Kelsey takes the time to get to know you, your story, goals, and helps you communicate those in the most effective way...." Read more
  • "Her structured, results-oriented process was exactly what I needed...." Read more
  • "She really sought to get to know me to help bring the best to my applications...." Read more
  • "guidance..." Read more
3 users mention "Value for Money"
  • "I hired Kelsey to help me with Consortium Round 1 for CBS with the $1000 Pre-Submission Package...." Read more
  • "Her rates are very reasonable. I never felt like I was being nickeled and dimed..." Read more
  • "Given how reasonable her pricing is, I think you receive much, much more than you pay...." Read more
3 users mention "Low GPA Success"
  • "having a low GPA & no-brand undergraduate program..." Read more
  • "less-than-ideal GPA and GRE scores..." Read more
  • "As a candidate with a <3.0 GPA and below average test scores..." Read more
2 users mention "Essay Editing"
  • "Kelsey really helped me craft a 'unique' and 'personal' story on my essays..." Read more
  • "Her help and guidance with essays was absolutely invaluable...." Read more
2 users mention "Top-Tier School Focus"
  • "could not have gotten into my dream mba program without her..." Read more
  • "my dream program as it was a very selective business school (T15)..." Read more
1 users mention "High GMAT Scorers"
1 users mention "Reapplication Success"
  • "I had connected and briefly worked with several coaches before but didn't find them to be personally invested in my success..." Read more
1 users mention "Waitlist Support"
  • "I was waitlisted for my top program..." Read more
1 users mention "Budget-Friendly"
  • "the affordable packages she offers..." Read more
*Review summaries are AI generated from 25 latest reviews in the past 2 years.

Reviews:

55 Reviews
5.0 Average
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November 24, 2024
gk01

Joined: Jun 05, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

Highly Recommend Kelsey and Embark MBA!

REVIEWER IDENTITY VERIFIED by school email address [?]

Reapplying is tough, but Kelsey gave me hope that this time could be different — and it was! After trying to navigate the process on my own with little success, she helped me bring out my unique story and showcase what makes me, me. She really took the time to understand my background and goals, which made all the difference in how my application came together.

Her process is structured and incredibly effective. It helped me get clarity on my goals and ensured I was ready for everything — even my interview. When I got the call over a month after submitting, I didn’t need to scramble because she’d already prepped me so well early on. It was such a relief not to start from scratch!

Kelsey also has so many school-specific insights and resources, which made every step more manageable. On top of that, when my circumstances changed during the process, she was flexible, guiding me through it all without missing a beat.

If you’re looking for someone who’ll bring out your best and keep you focused every step of the way, I can’t recommend Kelsey and Embark MBA enough!

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October 03, 2024
jsnlee657888

Joined: Oct 03, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

Kelsey is the true MVP

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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!

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September 23, 2024
lonewolf66

Joined: Oct 31, 2021

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

IDK where I would be without Kelsey!

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Strengths:

Speedy delivery of feedback and Kelsey is super relatable! It's like speaking to your best friend while discussing deeply personal matters. She is truly a master at the craft of ideation and helping you execute. I could not have gotten into b-school without her

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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July 20, 2024
mbaconsultreview

Joined: Jul 20, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

5/5; would definitely recommend!

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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!

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May 20, 2024
nicosahi

Joined: May 16, 2024

Posts: 0

Kudos: 0

I Wish I Had Done This Sooner

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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!

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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

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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!

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May 13, 2024
Benbadi

Joined: Aug 08, 2022

Posts: 35

Kudos: 4

Verified GMAT Classic score:
730 Q50 V38 (Online)

Kelsey is the Best

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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.

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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!

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