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Product Square One Prep Premium Service
Consultant Allison Nelson
I chose Allison at SquareOne for my reapplication to HBS as I was not particularly satisfied with my previous consultant from another top-rated firm when I applied a couple years prior. The difference was night and day, I have no doubt Allison played a key role in getting accepted to two of my target schools, HBS and Wharton! While previously I was one of thousands of clients (each file had to be named in a special way, consultant was available only at specific times, feedback felt generic), with SquareOne it felt far more personal. Allison was always available, and super helpful. For example in drafting the HBS essay, I struggled with picking between a couple of concepts and she was immediately available for a call to give me guidance and principles on which I should chose my topic. The highlight for me was the choreographed preparation of the post-interview reflection for HBS. I received an hourly schedule ahead of time of exactly how we go from me finishing my interview, through rounds of edits, to the final product in less than 12 hours. The support gave me confidence even heading into the interview.
One other aspect of SquareOne I would point out as uniquely cool is the career narrative. I haven't seen this anywhere else and initially thought we were wasting time spending days working on a document explaining my career vision when this was not a deliverable for any school. However, I ended up going back to this document regularly when building my applications for all 4 schools to which I applied. It gave me a framework for what my story is, and forced me to develop a clear idea of what I want to do post-MBA such that I could confidently talk about it in essays and interviews.
Last but not least, it was super helpful to have drafts go for an additional review with Kathryn. Getting a fresh set of eyes on the materials helped us catch some gaps in the story multiple times, and her insight was super useful. I particularly appreciated her openness to challenge ideas which she believed weren't right, that way forcing us to rethink some parts of the materials to make them work better.
The whole team were great and I can't recommend them enough!!
Product Square One Prep Premium Service
Consultant Allison Nelson
Square One is incredible. The entire team has deep industry knowledge and is exceptionally dedicated to their clients. They are patient, happy to answer questions, and engage in lengthy discussions. They work nights and weekends. Most importantly, they will push clients to be introspective and will provide you with their candid thoughts. They also take the time to get to know you personally - no one feels like a cog in the system. This is evident even from the free consultation that they offer. I highly recommend Square One. They are excellent; their expertise and dedication is second to none!
Product Square One Prep Premium Service
Consultant Kelsey Wise
I ADORED working with Square One Prep. I worked with SOP for my applications to GSB and HBS and was admitted into both schools. Initially, I didn't think I'd have enough time to apply for Round 1, but the team worked with me in a tight timeline to craft a strong application without time ever feeling like an issue. I was working from Africa, the Middle East, and North America while working on my apps - and the team was flexible to work with my chaotic schedule and varied time zones.
Specifically, I'd like to thank and HIGHLY recommend Kelsey. She was my dedicated advisor, and she was absolutely incredible throughout the entire process - from answering any questions I had (and I had many) to pushing my thinking on essays and engaging in interview practice. She is thoughtful and caring, and I felt constantly supported.
In addition, thank you to Kathryn for her leadership and expertise; Wendy for her support in crafting a genuine career narrative; Cristina for keeping track of timelines and progress!
I also grew personally through the structured process and reflection. THANK YOU Square One Prep for making my business school dream a reality.
Product Square One Prep Premium Service
Consultant Allison Nelson
Working with Square One Prep was amazing. Horatiu helped me think through my career goals and tie them to my past experiences. We explored two different paths I was interested in and ultimately decided on a healthcare route. Even though the purpose was to create a story that made sense for applications, I actually learned a lot about my own strengths and career goals and am much more prepared for business school.
Once I finished the career narrative, Allison helped me write amazing essays. It took many attempts and I changed topics multiple times, but we landed on a great story that helped me get interviews at 6/7 schools.
I’m excited to attend Chicago Booth next fall on a full ride scholarship! I couldn’t have done it without Square One. Thank you Kathryn, Allison, and Horatiu!
Product Square One Prep Premium Service
Consultant Amalia della Paolera
My advisors at SOP were especially successful at helping me dig dip into my inner motivations and strengths, and putting together a cohesive narrative that reflects my personal and professional story.
Questions like why am I really pursuing an MBA? What do I want to accomplish in the next 10 years? And, what matters most to me? Are DIFFICULT to answer. SOP has a solid framework to tackle them and very expert advisors who truly devote their time and effort to make sure you get to the most honest answers.
Both my HBS and Stanford essays were complimented by the admissions office of these universities. I wrote about a very personal topic, something I was not convinced at all about writing at first! My advisor did an impeccable job at convincing me this personal story had the potential to become a wonderful essay, and looking back, it was spot on.
Product Square One Prep Premium Service
Consultant Catherine Rolfe
Of all of the choices I’ve made professionally in the last 5 years, working with SOP feels like the best decision I’ve made for my future success.
I wasn’t 100% sure that I wanted to go to business school, and I wanted to focus on going to a school that would be a good culture fit. Kathryn helped me narrow my options to a list I was really excited about and recommended a school I hadn’t previously considered specifically for the culture fit – and now I’ve been admitted to that school as my top choice!
As an applicant with a non-traditional professional background, the SOP team’s guidance was invaluable in helping me highlight my experience in ways that an admissions committee could understand. I absolutely loved working with my advisor, Catherine, and felt that she got to know me well enough throughout the process that she could push me to deliver my best work. Catherine’s support on developing a career narrative, selecting essay topics, and preparing for interviews made me feel much more confident about the aspects of the admissions process I was nervous about.
From the unexpected merit scholarships that I was awarded to the peace of mind that came from having SOP’s support along the way, the investment in working with SOP more than paid for itself. Strongly recommend to anyone applying to business school!
Product Square One Prep Premium Service
Consultant Kathryn Lucas
I am immensely grateful to Square One Prep for their invaluable guidance throughout my MBA application journey. Their expertise and personalized approach were pivotal in helping me define my goals and develop a compelling narrative that resonated with the admissions committees. Their unwavering support and attention to detail ensured that I presented the strongest possible version of myself. But more importantly, their encouragement and calming presence helped me maintain focus and composure during what can be an incredibly stressful process! Take a deep breath and relax! I highly recommend Square One Prep to anyone seeking comprehensive and effective guidance in the competitive MBA admissions journey.
Product Square One Prep Premium Service
Consultant Kathryn Lucas
My journey with Square One Prep was a game-changer. When I found myself in a frenzy of last-minute decisions in late July – no GMAT score, no clear career goals, and a misguided plan to apply to five schools for Round 1 – they brought in calm and clarity. They redirected my efforts towards Round 2, guiding me to define a clearer career ambition and the right list of schools for me.
Their attention to detail was unmatched. Every aspect of my application, down to the smallest detail and the daunting task of perfecting video essays, was meticulously reviewed. Their dedication ensured a final submission that filled me with confidence.
Yet, what truly sets Square One Prep apart is their empathy and support. Their founder, Kathryn, embodies this ethos, forming genuine connections with every student. They didn't just advise me; they celebrated every success as if it were their own.
If you found yourself navigating the treacherous waters of business school applications, I highly recommend taking the leap with Square One Prep.
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Product Square One Prep Premium Service
Consultant Kelsey Wise
From the very first phone call with Kathryn, it was evident that she approached her job with a level of professionalism and dedication that truly set her apart. Her commitment to helping young professionals achieve their dreams of attending a top-tier MBA Program was palpable. As an applicant with a unique background and specific issues to address, I was understandably nervous about choosing the right team to work with. However, after meeting Kathryn and her team of advisors, I was reassured by their experience, intelligence, and organizational skills, which I knew would guide me through the rigorous application process.
Working closely with my advisor, Kelsey Wise, on my resume, scheduling, and essays, and collaborating with Wendy Bagdi-Durrua to refine my career narrative, I felt the authenticity behind their work and knew their support was genuine. Beyond their exceptional guidance, they also provided a
built-in support system that proved invaluable in maintaining my mental health and inner confidence throughout this demanding process. For anyone considering an MBA advisor, the number of options available can be overwhelming.
However, I can confidently say that choosing Kathryn and the Square One Prep team is an investment well worth making. Not only will you receive outstanding value for your money, but you'll also gain access to a support network that will not just make you a stronger applicant but also a better person by the end of your journey. When it comes to navigating the MBA application process, there is no one better equipped to guide you than Square One Prep.
Product Square One Prep Premium Service
Consultant Amalia della Paolera
After hearing about a friend´s positive experience with SOP and talking with Kathryn about her method, it was clear that SOPs approach was the right one for me. Initially with the help of the greater team as it related to my narrative, and later with Amalia´s thoughtful and careful guidance around essay drafts, I was able to accurately and strategically present the best possible application to AdComs. As all applicants know the work does not end after the application is submitted, as that is when interview work begins. This is another area where both Kathryn and Amalia were extremely helpful. Their historical experience and insight into each school's specific quirks and styles was extremely valuable in understanding how best to prepare for each interview. Ultimately, the team´s diligent approach and genuine interest in my success led me to obtain multiple acceptances to various schools, including my number one.
All in all, I am beyond glad I decided to work with SOP. Solid recommendation all throughout!
