M7 MBA Application

Soyoung P., a mid-20s professional with a science degree, was working for a leading Korean S company when she decided it was time to take the next step in her career by pursuing an MBA in the U.S. This was a big leap for her—not only was she switching careers, but it would also be her first time studying abroad. She came to CiA (Career in America) for guidance on her applications to M7 schools, and we worked together for a month to get her ready.

Scope of Work

Soyoung’s application had its fair share of hurdles. While her background was impressive, she needed help translating her achievements into a cohesive narrative that would stand out to admissions committees. She also had concerns about long-term career opportunities in the U.S., especially given the challenges many international students face with visa sponsorship after graduation. On top of that, there was the financial burden of attending a top MBA program.

Our Approach

We took a very structured and personalized approach over the course of four weeks, dedicating 5-10 hours each week. Here’s what we focused on:

• Essay Writing: We worked together to craft essays that highlighted her unique career path and clear future goals.
• Interview Prep: Mock interviews helped her refine her answers and feel confident about presenting herself to admissions committees.
• Resume Building: We revamped her resume to reflect her leadership potential and transferable skills.
• Visa and Career Strategy: We discussed her long-term career goals in the U.S. and mapped out strategies to maximize her chances of securing a job and visa post-MBA.
• Networking Plan: A targeted approach to networking was key for both her applications and her future job search.

One of the key methods I introduced was First Principles Thinking. By breaking down complex challenges into their fundamentals, Soyoung could tackle each part strategically and efficiently. This mindset also helped her evaluate her options and stay focused throughout the process.