ABOUT
Behind Embark
I’m Kelsey, founder of Embark MBA and a former member of the Columbia Business School admissions committee. At CBS, 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. I know exactly how admissions decisions can made because I was on the inside.
After CBS, I moved into finance. I worked at a hedge fund, a large bank, and in venture capital. It gave me something most ex-adcom members have: a real understanding of the career paths my clients are seeking. Yet, as I built my career, I missed helping candidates craft their stories. I returned to the admissions world as Embark’s founder.
I founded Embark MBA to help address address some of the biggest missteps. Candidates often undersell their experiences. Essays sound like everyone else’s. Strong applicants could get dinged because their story didn’t connect or were unclear.
I work with a small number of clients each cycle. That’s intentional. Every person I work with receives my full attention, from the first strategy call to the final submission.
Every year since 2020, I’ve answered questions on Reddit’s r/MBA community. You can read exactly how I think and what I know: 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 Admit
Hear me chat about the MBA interview process, common interview questions, and tips for success!
Listen to me uncover the CBS interview process, 3 most important questions, and how to prep!