ABOUT
Behind Embark
History
Embark MBA was founded from a simple passion: helping candidates achieve their MBA goals through expert, personal guidance. Before launching Embark, I served on Columbia Business School’s admission committee, where I reviewed countless applications, interviewed candidates, managed the world-wide interview program, served as a waitlist manager, and managed the dual degree programs for the Law, Medical, and Journalism schools.
Thereafter, I transitioned into finance, with stints at a hedge fund, a large bank, and in venture capital. Yet, even as I built my career, I missed the part I loved most — helping candidates craft their stories. I returned to the admissions world as Embark’s founder.
On the other side of the admissions journey, I saw critical gaps in the application process: limited guidance around testing, the challenge of telling narratives within the confines of a few essays and a resume is challenging, and how admissions committees can seem like a black box.
Embark MBA’s mission reflects these gaps - offer best-in-class advice, work closely with a small number of candidates, and provide personal partnership to every client.
Since 2017, I’ve helped hundreds of MBA-hopefuls get accepted to top US and European business schools across full-time, executive, and part-time programs — and I look forward to helping you do the same.
How I work
I believe that everyone, regardless of background or test scores, has the potential to gain admission to business school. As the first in my family to attend college, I understand how challenging it can be to navigate a complex admissions process without expert guidance. Having sat on the other side of the table as a decision-maker, my goal is to be the trusted partner I wish I’d had.
I’m committed to making my services accessible, not just for the top 10% of earners. Alongside reasonable pricing for all clients, I also offer need-based options for select candidates.
There’s no “one size fits all” approach to MBA or EMBA admissions. I invest the time to deeply understand your story, goals, and voice. Because the strongest application isn’t the one packed with the biggest buzzwords — it’s the one that sounds unmistakably like you.
I prioritize speed and reliability. I work evenings and weekends to ensure fast turnaround times, often returning drafts within 24 hours. Your success is my top priority, and I approach this work with the urgency and care it deserves.
Want to learn more about how I work with applicants?
You can browse my annual Reddit AMA threads: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024
“Here’s what sets Kelsey apart: the personal care and attention she pours into your application. Hit a writer’s block on a complicated essay question? She’s a call away. Feeling nervous before an interview? She’s got your back. Even during those late-night, last-minute application grind sessions, she’s there. You won’t find this kind of one-on-one focus at the larger firms.”
— CBS Class of 2025 Admit
