Case Study 3: Asian American in Marketing and Advertising Industry

Having been in marketing and advertising since graduating college, I didn’t know too many people with MBA’s and didn’t consider pursuing an MBA as part of my long-term plan.

So when I felt ready to go back to school, I was not as prepared as other candidates who were in industries were an MBA was encouraged.

I spoke with several admissions consultants before working with EXPARTUS®, and they all filled me with fear – fear that I was not business school material and that my odds of getting into top programs were very slim.

All these consultants told me that I was too old and my work experience didn’t have the star power of investment banking or management consulting. In particular, one consultant told me that I had “no meat” to my story and that Michigan would be a reach school for me. With dread, I made my call to EXPARTUS® expecting the same.

The Challenge: Having been in marketing and advertising since graduating college, I didn’t know too many people with MBA’s and didn’t consider pursuing an MBA as part of my long-term plan. So when I felt ready to go back to school, I was not as prepared as other candidates who were in industries were an MBA was encouraged. I spoke with several admissions consultants before working with EXPARTUS®, and they all filled me with fear – fear that I was not business school material and that my odds of getting into top programs were very slim. All these consultants told me that I was too old and my work experience didn’t have the star power of investment banking or management consulting. In particular, one consultant told me that I had “no meat” to my story and that Michigan would be a reach school for me. With dread, I made my call to EXPARTUS® expecting the same.

The EXPARTUS® Solution: I was thrilled with EXPARTUS®’ approach. Rather than instilling fear and setting limitations, EXPARTUS® was my advocate and champion, empowering me to do my best and work to my full potential. Most importantly, EXPARTUS® was a constant presence and guided me through the entire process. Our weekly status meetings were invaluable in helping me articulate a focused and highly compelling application incorporating so-called “no-meat” background and future MBA goals. We turned what other consultants pointed as my shortcomings – age, gender, Asian background – into advantages. Through the PBA and personal branding process, we were able to develop a personal brand that appropriately captured my diverse work experience, community service involvement and my personal history. The PBA was also integral in helping me answer key questions that helped me clarify my goals and provide structure to my story.

The Outcome: Throughout the application process, EXPARTUS® partnered with me every step of the way, keeping me motivated. I’ve been accepted to several top 10 schools including Kellogg, Tuck and Wharton and I know I couldn’t have done it without EXPARTUS®.