You have a very interesting career in a start up in a unique industry, but few people go to HBS from that background. When did you start thinking you needed to study abroad to help your career?
As the business of my company rapidly grows internationally, I found that sooner or later I need skills to effectively lead people in one direction. Even a unique business will encounter universal problems in the course of its growth, that is about to happen to my company. Before the need actually comes to me, I decided to proactively obtain those capacities.

Some people say that entrepreneurship and leadership are not things you can study in the classroom. Why do you think that the HBS PLD program is suitable for you?
I believe leadership can be learned, however the only way to do it is sharing experience. HBS PLD is a case-based program and open exclusively for those who have more than 10 years of business experience. This feature matched my assumption about leadership learning.

How did you find out about this program and decide to apply?
I personally met admission staff of several programs, and compared the fit & gap with me. Finally I found the best chemistry with my requirements with HBS PLD.

What did you find was the most difficult part of the application process?
Due to my relatively uncommon background, it was really hard to find good previous cases of sample essays and materials that go well with me. I had to construct the direction of the admission process by myself, it was the most difficult part of my admission.

How did Edogijuku help you prepare a successful application?
Edogijuku helped me with finding the right direction of my essay. I could accurately understand my uniqueness and flaws in my view thanks to Edogijuku. It was the best part of Edogijuku without any equals.

Do you have advice for future applicants or entrepreneurs?
Uniquenesses are not weaknesses. I hope the wisdom of business schools will be blended into new industries.

I work as a Product Manager at a Japan branch of a US tech company. With Ed’s support on essay and interview, I got accepted in the early decision round of CBS, and will enter from August 2023.

You are working in a famous company that many people join after they earn an MBA, why did you get interested in an MBA?
Post MBA, I would still like to be in a tech company but I am interested in healthcare business which I do not have experience. I would like to gain a deep understanding towards my MBA study to make that transition happen.

You aimed for CBS in the early decision, can you share some insights about the decision? What attracted you about Columbia compared with other programs?
First of all, the place where CBS is located, NY, attracted me. Many famous people in the business come to the lecture because it is in NY, and there are also many opportunities outside the school. Additionally, they have abundant healthcare related classes and programs and I thought it would be a best fit for me to pursue my MBA.

What do you think was the most challenging part of the MBA application process?
Getting a good test score, definitely,,, for me, but writing an essay was also tough. I first was not clear on what I really want to do post MBA, and how I can link to why MBA and why CBS questions.

I work with many applicants and I really want people to have a clear strategy about their strengths in relation to their future goal and also the development points in the MBA. You had a very clear strategy, can you share how you developed your goal, strengths, and MBA study plan?
I listed out all of my job experience and what kind of skill I used to make an achievement. Also, I thought about when I got excited most in my job. With combining those two, I noticed what kind of things I wanted to do post mba. In order to understand what I am lacking to be in that position, I interview some people who are in my ideal position. Then it came clear what I need through MBA, and looked up whether the school has strengths in that area that I want to learn.

Is there anything you would have done differently in the process?
I should have thought about my post MBA goal before I talk to alumni. If you have a clear goal, you can just ask the alumni about the things that would be useful for the essay and interview. In that way, you can dive deep into more detailed information.

What was the most valuable thing about the Edogijuku Services for your applications?
Ed helped me a lot on how I can appeal my strengths through the essay and told me to have a strategy. I wasn’t able to find what my strengths are by myself, but discussing with Ed, I was able to put into words. Additionally, the interview feedback was very valuable to me. I wasn’t really good at expressing my thoughts clearly in a short sentence. Ed gave me advice on how I can put all the important information in a short talk. After a couple interview sessions with Ed, I gained confidence and was able to enjoy the conversation with the real interviewer.

Do you have any other advice for future applicants?
MBA application is a tough process and I thought about giving up multiple times. But with the support of Ed and other fellows aiming to get an MBA, I was able to keep my motivation. Therefore, I strongly advice to talk with others, get support from others, if you hit the wall.

You grew up living overseas and in Japan. Then you joined a leading global finance company to start your career. Were you always thinking of getting an MBA?
While working in the financial industry in Tokyo and Hong Kong for a decade, I had the opportunity to build relationships with numerous managers and clients, many of whom held an MBA. As I interacted with these people, I noticed the level of knowledge and expertise they had, and I thought if pursuing an MBA myself could enhance my own skills and unlock opportunities for my career.
I knew that I didn't want to limit myself in one particular industry alone. While I had gained invaluable experience in finance, I also recognized the importance of having a well-rounded understanding of other aspects of business, such as marketing, operations, and strategy. Moreover, despite my ten years with the company, I knew that I didn't view myself staying there indefinitely, and I wanted to position myself for success in a variety of industries and roles. Hence, I began to seriously consider pursuing an MBA – I wish I had thought about this earlier but better late than never.

You had the opportunity to work abroad in Asia, how did that influence your career?
Living and working abroad helped me realize the vast opportunities that existed outside of Japan. I was fully exposed to differences between the countries, not only in terms of language and culture, but also in terms of business practices and global perspectives. This realization sparked a desire in me to bridge the gap between Japan and the rest of the world, in some sort of way.
I thought that my career would be best spent facilitating collaboration between Japan and other countries. I believe that this kind of cross-border interaction is not only important for individual growth and development, but also for ultimately achieving the feeling of building a more connected and harmonious global community. This is one of the reasons I decided to dive into the startup world focusing on healthcare as I saw an opportunity to bring technology from Japan to the world and to help patients in need.

Initially you applied and passed an M7 school, however, decided to take the opportunity to jump into a startup and it must have been a difficult decision. Can you talk about that decision?
As mentioned earlier, my goal has always been to make a significant contribution to the Japanese economy by creating startups that can have a global impact. Although it was unexpected, I was fortunate to come across this opportunity after passing an M7 school, and I was able to make the transition from the financial industry.

You have had some success in your startup, but you decided to pursue an EMBA. Some people might say that entrepreneurs do not need an MBA, what led to your decision?
Since our plan is to expand overseas, particularly in the US, I thought it would be beneficial for me to gain valuable experience and connections by attending a top MBA program in the US. I am aware that many schools offer interdisciplinary studies, including engineering and medical schools, in addition to business-related studies. This appealed to me because it would allow me to customize my curriculum and expand my network efficiently.

What does the MIT SF program offer that you are looking forward to the most?
Probably not the most unique answer but I am most excited about the people I will meet inside and outside the classroom. Expanding outside my comfort zone can be challenging but I look forward to gaining new insights and perspectives from a diverse group of individuals. Moreover, I am particularly drawn to Boston as it is a global hub for both the healthcare and startup industries, aligning perfectly with my career interests (excluding the weather…).

What did you find was the most difficult part of the application process?
The most difficult part for me was defining my career goals. Although I had a vague idea, I struggled to outline and verbalize the specific steps and processes necessary to achieve them. Fortunately, with the help of Ed, I was able to clarify my objectives and establish a clear roadmap to my goals. Although it was a time-consuming process, it proved invaluable in preparing for my application and subsequent interview.
How did Edogijuku help you prepare a successful application?
As mentioned earlier, Ed was instrumental in helping me visualize the steps required to achieve my career goals. Additionally, I found his assistance in interview preparation to be extremely valuable. His feedback was concise and actionable, addressing both the content and delivery aspects of my responses. Overall, his guidance helped me feel more confident and prepared for the interview process.

Do you have advice for future applicants?
My advice to those considering an MBA program is to never give up and keep striving for improvement. I believe that the application process itself is just as valuable as the MBA program, as it allows you to clarify your goals and aspirations. Additionally, I recommend dedicating some time to improve your test scores until the deadline. In the GMAT, TOEFL, etc., there may be questions that align well with your strengths, so it's essential to take advantage of all opportunities to improve the score.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuan-gao-287328165/

You started your career in a leading firm but you changed to a more innovative one, can you talk about this transition?
I moved from a large company to a start-up because I wanted to gain decision-making and management experience to achieve my goal of becoming a manager as soon as possible.

When did you consider an MBA?
Although my work at the start-up was fulfilling, I was feeling bewildered because I was not able to utilize my international experience, which is one of my strengths. I took the IELTS test to test my skills and got a score of 7.5 on my first attempt, so I decided to go for an MBA (August 2022).

Among the MBA programs you decided to prioritize INSEAD, can you share the reasons why?
Strong alumni network and outstanding recognition around the world, campus in Singapore, 10-month short-term programme

What are you expecting the most from INSEAD?
Networks contributing to post-graduation career development.

What was the most difficult part of the application process?
By far the hardest part was GMAT score making.
How did Edogijuku help you prepare a successful application?
He always provided prompt and accurate advice. I could not have completed the essays without Ed's support.

Do you have advice for future applicants?
The most important thing is to STAY POSITIVE. To do this, I recommend making the most of the support of family, friends and Ed!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuzo-yamaguchi-0121/

You have a relatively long and successful career, when did you start thinking of the EMBA?
In the case of MBA, it was 2019 (8 years at my company). In the case of EMBA, it was 2021 (10 years at my company).

You applied to several EMBA programs, what attracted you to the Chicago EMBA in particular?
Current students. I did campus visits for several schools and talked with current students. In the visits, Booth members are the best fit for me.

The EMBA is still relatively uncommon in traditional Japanese companies, how did you negotiate to support your EMBA with your company?
Carefully discussed with key persons (Direct supervisors, COO of my division, the PIC of HR) in advance with purpose and enthusiasm for EMBA.

What are you expecting the most from the EMBA program?
Human network especially in Asia

What was the most difficult part of the application process?
Score making

How did Edogijuku help you prepare a successful application?
Scrutiny of Essays

Do you have advice for future applicants?
Anyway, please express your passion to Ed first of all. And, Ed will cook your thoughts properly.

You have had a successful career in a global company, why did you feel the need to do an MBA?
I felt a sense of crisis that even professional consulting firms in Japan were less connected to other global offices and could not fully utilize worldwide knowledge to the client due to the English proficiency

You decided to target schools in the UK and Canada rather than the US.
Canada: The job prospects after graduation seemed relatively high.
UK: The university from which my father graduated and one year program can provide a less financial burden

What are your greatest hopes for the MBA programme at the University of Toronto?
Collaboration with a diverse group of classmates

What was the most difficult part of the application process?
Scoremaking in English
How did Edo Gijuku assist you with your application?
Correcting resumes and essays and inputing way of thinking

What advice would you give to future applicants?
If it's your first time applying, you may feel uneasy because there are many things you don't know, but I think taking on the challenge while getting good support from the people around you, including Ed, is a good idea.
Ed is known for his high performance, and will maximize your potential to be admitted to the top-notch school.

Cross-border M&A advisor at Japanese financial institution
Since 2017, I have been engaged in cross-border M&A advisory services mainly for Japanese companies. Other than Japan, I worked in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom.

You were fortunate to get overseas assignments in your career, did working abroad influence your decision to pursue an MBA?
Yes, indeed. Having worked in London for almost 3 years, I was exposed to a real international environment where people who came from different disciplines and who have different ways of expressing and thinking. It strongly affects my career prospects, especially leadership style, and how to manage a finely diversified group as a leader.
Moreover, it was challenging for me to work as an Asian woman working in the financial industry in London. Communication errors and difficulties in convincing clients with my own words make me feel that gender equality is the biggest agenda for my personal career. I then felt that there should be women who have experienced the similar challenges, with whom I wanted to discuss what kind of action we can take to improve the working environment and to encourage future female leaders. These are the purposes of my MBA.

What were you expecting the most from the MBA program?
1: Management skills to work with diversified team
2: Practical financial skill sets to transform to PE equity, pivoting from advisor’s role
3: To have an opportunity to have a discussion with passionate female future leaders about equality

You were very focused on programs in the UK, why?
Having worked in London for 3 years, I was convinced that this is the best location/country to pursue my career in the vigorous financial industry.
As my focus was to get a job in London post-MBA, 2 years graduate VISA which is available for international students who graduated from some UK top tier schools is one of the advantages of UK schools.
On top of that, knowing the industry which you would like to dive into post-MBA is critical, and therefore UK schools are the best options for me so that I will be exposed to a lot of information about the industry during the school days, in my opinion.

Fortunately, you could get admitted to all the schools. How did you make your final decision?
I got offers from LBS, Cambridge, Imperial College and Oxford.
It was a challenging moment to make a decision since all of the schools are well known in the global business market.
The factors which affected my decision were;
1: testimonial from alumni
2: duration of the school
3: reputation in the UK, and
4: scholarship from Oxford
The most important factor was obviously comments from alumni who have the similar career paths as me. They gave me their feedback that the Finance Lab was the incredibly practical experience to get their desired job in the PE fund industry. Hearing their feedback allows me to confirm with full confidence that the Finance Lab is the best opportunity to get my ideal job post-MBA.
1 year programme was also desired for me, but in the end Oxford provided me with a scholarship which partly covers its tuition, which helped me make up my mind.
Just for your information, many students who get a scholarship from some schools tried to negotiate against other schools with it. I didn’t do that but apparently it sometimes works.

On the other hand, you postponed your application once. I tell people it is a long marathon process, can you share about the timing of your application?
My decision to postpone my application was in conjunction with my career and private life.
Nonetheless, I personally think this was the right decision for me. I was extremely exhausted when I completed GMAT (October, 2022). I could have jumped into writing an essay right after that, but looking back on the date, I feel that I was not completely ready to prepare for the essay or interview. It is because I wasn’t clearly sure “why I want to go MBA” or “what I want to accomplish in the future”. From my viewpoint, this is a key element of the MBA application journey, neither GMAT nor English test. During your long marathon, I would recommend that you consider as deeply as you can on what the purpose of your MBA is. Should it not be clear enough, you may have difficulties preparing essays and interviews. I admit that studying GMAT is quite an overwhelming process but please make sure that you take your time as much as you can to consider the “core” of your application.

As a private sponsored applicant, what was the most difficult part of the application process?
The most difficult but the most important point was getting a clear view of your career plan. Especially, schools most likely ask for your detailed career plan including plan B.
You may already have what you want to do or what kind of industry you want to join post-MBA. You can dig into more deeply to see which company or what type of role you would like to take, for example.

How did Edogijuku help you prepare a successful application?
Edogijuku was an incredibly amazing tool for me, especially to connect the dots to make lines. Initially it was hard for me to verbalize what I want to do or what kind of career I want to pursue post-MBA. Ed always patiently takes time to digest what I’m thinking. This process allows me to get a clearer view of my future career, helping me prepare compelling and logical essay/interview answers.
Edogijuku’s event also provides me with informative insight. Ed has a lot of useful information about the application process. Moreover, the event is a great opportunity to connect with other MBA applicants, which was essential for me to stay positive.

Do you have advice for future applicants?
MBA is a starting point for your brightened future. Let’s think beyond MBA !
Please also ask for help from people who support you. When you are in difficult situations, people who take care of you support you no matter what. Do not walk this long challenging application journey alone. Ed is one of the supporters, I’m sure !

Self intro / Linkedin
Hello! My name is Yuta Miki, and I will go to Stanford GSB in the fall of 2021. I grew up in Kawasaki City, Japan. I worked at SAP for four years and now enter the MBA school as a private-sponsored student.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuta-miki/


Tell me about your decision to study in the US for college - it seems like a key turning point?
Yes, I was in Meiji University and transferred to the Ohio State University in my second year. I was eager to learn with students from different countries and acquire English skills to prepare myself for working globally after undergraduate school. Also, I thought the undergraduate business curriculum in the US is advanced because the US has so many renowned business schools. The decision to study in the US was one of the best decisions of my life so far!


Why did you join SAP?
I wanted to have a good impact on societies with technology, which is changing every industry. Also, a sales skill is often ignored but very essential to build great businesses. I wanted to acquire the universal sales skill that I can utilize for the rest of my corporate life. Finally, I love the people of SAP. They are very open-minded and supportive.


When did you start thinking about the MBA?
I got interested in an MBA in my first year of Meiji University. HBS alumni gave us a presentation about the MBA. I was attracted to the curriculum and mission of MBA to educate future leaders. I have always dreamed of going for an MBA since then. Because I knew GPA is crucial for MBA application and I wanted to do well in US college, I attained a high GPA which was helpful for my application.


You contacted me very early in the process and I think that it was very important and helpful for you. Can you tell me about that decision?
Yes, I contacted you in May of 2019. I thought early preparation is critical for successful application. Also, when I was in high school, I did not prepare early for a college entrance exam, and I failed to get admitted into the college of my top choice. I did not want to make the same mistakes for an MBA application. I was fortunate to attend your seminar with many people applying in 2019, one year earlier than my application round. It helped me grasp the whole application one year earlier.


Fortunately you could get your score early and apply for the Fulbright Scholarship, how was that an important part of your application process?
The deadline for the Fulbright application comes earlier than the deadlines for other business schools, and the application process is very similar. The Fulbright scholarship application helped me prepare early, and it was like a vital practice game for your World Cup game, a business school application. (I like soccer analogy)


What was the hardest part of the application process for you?
Writing essays is fun but very hard because I needed to make many edits and it required a lot of introspection. However, the essay part helped me think of who I am, what I am passionate about, and how I want to contribute to this society for the rest of my life.


What was the valuable aspect of the Edogijuku Service that helped you?
Ed’s feedback on essays and interviews was always detailed and on the point. Ed’s seminars gave me a lot of information and insight into MBA schools and the application process. Most importantly, Ed is a very nice person and always supportive of applicants. I enjoyed working with him throughout my application journey!


You are private sponsored so how did you develop your future goal?
First, I wrote down what I am passionate about. After that, I connected these dots to write the short-term and long-term goals covering my interests and passions. In the process, I often asked myself, “Is this goal worth the rest of my life and compelling MBA admission to invest their available seats in me??”. With this method, I made it to create the goal coming from the bottom of my heart.


How did you choose your letter of recommendation writers?
I have had two supervisors for my years at SAP. I asked them to write the recommendation letter. Although they never wrote recommendation letters before, they put great effort into writing the letters for me. I really appreciate it.


I thought that you had a good strategy to show your leadership outside work, can you give some hints about outside work experiences?
I was involved in different extracurricular activities, such as leading the SAP Japan soccer team and founding the Ohio State University Alumni Club of Japan. The key for extracurricular activities is to do what you like or are passionate about to keep working on these activities even though you are busy with the primary job responsibilities.


If you could go back to 20 years old and make one change, what would it be?
At Ohio State, I should have taken a minor in science disciplines such as computer science and bioengineering because knowledge and experiences of these fields are becoming more important in real businesses.


What is the best advice you can give future MBA applicants?
Prepare early! Although some people are smart enough to get into top business schools with a few months of preparation, many people, including me, need to make great efforts to get into top MBA schools. If you prepare early, you have more chances to boost your scores, write compelling essays, know more about MBA schools, build great relationships with your recommenders and do well on your main jobs while applying!


You were very good at networking and also took a leading role in Kaigai MBA.com, can you give some advice about the importance of networking?
SAP Japan does not send MBA students or hire them, so I did not have anyone close to me applying for top business schools. I also love to connect with and support people, which encourages me to build the communities of MBA applicants during the application phase. It was my pleasure to know my fellow MBA applicants. They are super awesome!!
I just want to say that there are applicants who did not connect with any applicants and still got into their desired schools. You do not need to feel pressure to network!


Is there anything else you would like to add?
I am grateful for the people helping me get into Stanford GSB. I aspired to learn from renowned professors and fellow students, support them and change the world together after MBA. If you read my interviews and get interested in knowing more about the application process from me, I am always happy to support you! Feel free to send messages on LinkedIn!

Self intro
Hello, my name is Yiping. I was born and raised in China and have been living in Japan for nearly 10 years. After graduation, I started to work for a consulting company. I plan to go to HBS from fall of 2021.


Tell me about your decision to study abroad in the Japan during high school - it seems like a key turning point?
Exactly. I was always curious about the world outside of my home, an industrial city in China. I have been eager to study abroad since very young. After joining the Japanese class in high school, I was selected as a member of a government organized exchange program to study in high school in Kyoto. During the homestay in Kyoto, I was able to further understand Japanese culture, and gained a “minority” perspective as an exchange student.


Why did you come to Japan for university?
During the one-year homestay in Kyoto, I made many good friends in Japan and I was hoping to continue the friendship and learn more about Japan, so I came back to Japan for college.


How did you decide to join your company and the consulting industry?
I chose the consulting industry because I was hoping to gain basic business skills in a short time after graduation. ZS specializes in the healthcare industry, which I found rewarding, and I found ZS especially attractive for its unique culture.


When did you start thinking about the MBA?
When working with the MBA holders in my company, I found they had a well structured and comprehensive understanding of business, which encouraged me to pursue an MBA myself.


You applied to the UK and the US programs and the 1st round and 2nd round, can you share some insights about these decisions?
I did not have a strong preference on geography, and found both programs attractive in different ways. Therefore, I decided to apply for both, and chose a UK school for R1 as I wanted to get familiar with the application process and start story building earlier.


What do you think was the most challenging part of the process?
As for most applicants, balancing work and application was challenging. I did not regret spending enough time on work to gain good results, as it helped me with the essay and interview eventually (i.e., achievement stories).


The score making was not easy for you and for many others, do you have any good tips for other applicants?
I had a hard time achieving the ideal GMAT score, so I think I should have created a more strategic study plan at an earlier phase.


You did a good job taking time for self reflection and integrating your personal experiences and connecting them to your career and future career path, can you give some insights to help other applicants?
With the help from Ed, close friends and mentors, I was able to reflect thoroughly on my personal experiences from when I was a child. To be specific, my process was basically 1) recall those moments that I felt excited and had passion about, 2) find the connections and core values behind them, and 3) draw a picture for the future about what I want to dedicate my life for.


What was the most valuable thing about the Edogijuku Services for your applications?
Professional advice from Ed and connections with other applicants are definitely the two most valuable things. I am so glad and thankful that I found Edogijuku and had Ed be my advisor.


Do you have any other advice for future applicants?
Find your own motivation about business school, while allow some downtime during the process for the balance.

Ed is known for his long experience of helping many applicants enter into top business schools, based on which he provides edits suited for each school’s characteristics.
On top of that, what I’m most grateful to him for is that he was always nice, kind, and approachable; that was a great support for me during the stressful application process. When one interview suddenly got scheduled two days later, he even advised me about my interview script at midnight. He patiently worked with me until I’m sure my essay was the best version possible.

Another of his unique strengths is that he deeply understands the realities of Japanese applicants. Many native speaker counselors insist that you shouldn’t prepare interview scripts as you would be like a tape recorder in an interview; however, I believe this policy is unrealistic to many intermediate level English speakers like me. In contrast, Ed will help you develop your interview scripts if you want. He provides interview strategies suitable for non-native applicants, which also helped me pass my HBS interview.