Niketa Desai

I met Niketa pretty late in 2023 and right from the start, what I loved the most about her was how Niketa was so invested in your application. All throughout, she was so professional with the process and made sure we were submitting all elements on time. Every little detail and story was vetted multiple times and we went through a number of iterations.
Her personalised approach with every candidate stood out exceptionally for me. She did not want to fit me into a narrative that works, but rather she invested her time to listen to my stories and form a story that was MINE. And I think this personalised approach was what worked.

I had the most wonderful experience working with Niketa; she’s so much more than just a consultant – a friend, a career therapist, and your personal cheerleader, helping you manage your emotions through the grueling application journey.

My first conversation with Niketa was when I wasn’t even sure if I wanted to apply for an MBA – the clarity, guidance, and genuine belief that Niketa showed in my profile not only motivated me to apply in the current MBA cycle but I was sure she was the one I wanted to work with.

There are several aspects that sets Niketa apart from others. First and foremost, her compassion and empathy make her the best listener and she made me feel comfortable enough to be vulnerable and share my true self to her. She really tailors the application process to an individual and their specific needs because she understands that everyone has a unique story to tell – being my authentic self was a priority for me and she never let me stray from the path.

I started my applications quite late, with only about a month to go for the deadlines but Niketa customized my application strategy, applying to only 2 schools in R1 and then 2 schools in R2. She made sure I was adhering to strict fast tracked timelines. However, once my Yale essay was done, Niketa took a leap of faith and we decided to apply to HBS with only 10 days to go! She has a high conviction when it comes to telling your story so she never shied away from numerous iterations, and even stayed up with me late at night just to get the application in good shape and today I have an admit from HBS!

One of Niketa’s biggest strengths is that she has a deep understanding of all industries – she truly understood the nitty-gritties of my job and helped me connect the dots of my personal and professional lives to present who I really was. She gives very pointed and honest feedback that helps you better portray yourself in the constraints of limited words.

Niketa provided extensive interview preparation support as well by connecting me with alumni from different schools and conducting several mocks for me herself. She also knew when to stop: as the emotions and anxiety were running high, she asked me to take a step back and relax as I was beginning to sound over-rehearsed. She provided the much needed support during this time, even checking up to see if I was feeling better after a rather terrible mock session.

Niketa was very quick to respond to any queries I had or any help I needed, as was her team of Shruti and Shweta (who were just as happy in your success!). Niketa’s help extends beyond just the application and she helps you prepare for what the MBA journey might look like for you.

I owe my successful application cycle to Niketa and I consider myself lucky to have found her. She will always encourage you to aim higher. You cannot go wrong if you have Niketa in your corner 🙂

Like many others, I started off the application process feeling extremely underconfident, owing to my sub-par GMAT scores. However, Niketa made me believe in my own potential and story and how being your authentic self can go a long way along the process.

Niketa is a lot more than an admissions consultant to me. She has been my mentor, supporter and sounding board for the past year. There are so many things that stood out to me during the application process –

1. She understands you as a person inside out – even before starting an application, she knew exactly what parts of my story needed to be highlighted, my strengths and my weaknesses. More so, she asked brilliant questions/prompted me to think deeply during brainstorming sessions that helped me understand myself a lot better

2. ⁠She’s 100% authentic and transparent – it also means that she will not sugarcoat things ever. This is why, every time she gave any feedback on my essays, I valued everything she said. She’s not someone who would fill your essay with comments – she will point out top 3-4 things that will make all the difference. Also, she let me record all our discussions and calls which was a huge help

3. ⁠She knows all schools inside-out hence, she helped me tailor my essays based on the school’s persona/values. I had the most fun working on my Wharton application with her – it’s so refreshing to see how excited and passionate she gets while discussing stories. It made me believe in myself more and put my best foot forward

4. ⁠She has an incredible team – both Shweta and Shruti were super helpful especially when it came to keeping up with timelines (I don’t know any other consultant who pushes, follows up, and keeps you so much on track) and refining essays

5. ⁠Niketa’s accessibility is another thing that stood out – I could always trust that she would get back to me when needed especially when things got stressful. She has an excellent essay TAT (will never make you wait for days) and she never shies away from multiple iterations

6. ⁠The AdmitBeacon knowledge base is another resource that acted as a one-stop shop on school essay advice, research links, etc – referring to that first and then scheduling a brainstorming call with Niketa made the whole process a lot more efficient

Would definitely recommend Niketa and her team – thanks a ton for everything!

Niketa has been an amazing coach, always there with unwavering support every step of the way. Her advice and insights were spot-on, helping me bring out my personal stories and refine my professional goals. I’m genuinely grateful for her support and look forward to having a mentor (and friend) for life.

Niketa is thorough, patient and empathetic in her approach. She helped me craft a cohesive and well-thought non profit and education career trajectory. Her insights across various industries were instrumental in helping me articulate my most authentic narrative. She pushed me to apply to a wide range of schools and helped me customize my storyline for each school.

Beyond serving as a brilliant thought partner, Niketa’s investment in my application journey has stood out the most to me. Her reflection exercises, complemented by the resources provided through the Knowledge Base, played a pivotal role in my school selection process and essay composition. Niketa’s structured approach ensured that I remained focused and on target throughout the entire application journey. What sets Niketa apart is her acute awareness of the stress inherent in the MBA application process, coupled with her empathetic approach to addressing it. I appreciated her accessibility and willingness to assist, even beyond the admissions stage.

I wholeheartedly endorse Niketa to anyone seeking an MBA consultant. Her blend of expertise, empathy, and dedication makes her an invaluable asset in navigating the complexities of business school applications.

I had a great time working with Niketa and her team. I had started engaging with Niketa about 1.5 years before I decided to apply, and only after a few initial conversations, I knew she was the right person for my MBA applications journey (and beyond!).

Niketa is very passionate about what she does, and her passion is almost palpable in her style and approach to her work. She makes you feel like she a real partner in your journey and is as invested as you are in ensuring the best outcomes for you. Many things stood out for me while working with her –

She is very honest; she is not afraid to call a spade a spade. Her counsel in unfiltered and pragmatic. If she is not convinced about a particular story/idea, even after multiple iterations, she will not be afraid to call it out. This quality worked wonders for me. Her feedback and encouragement pushed me to introspect deeper.

She understands the MBA admissions landscape across different schools really well. She helped me to meticulously tailor each application. Her approach is far from templatised; she ensures that each narrative aligns with the ethos of the respective school while retaining authenticity.

Further, Niketa strikes a fine balance between providing guidance and preserving independent thinking. She is also very receptive to upward feedback and is open to re-think approaches. Hence, working with her is very open, transparent and easy.

Overall, Niketa and her team are very well-organised. Her turn-around-time is very quick (even during personal exigencies such as sick days). She and her team made sure I was on my toes throughout this very overwhelming and exhausting process! I ended up receiving offers from Kellogg, CBS (both of which were my top choices) and LBS.

I would recommend her without reservation!

Niketa helped fluently articulate a PE + Ops story that eventually stood out in a competitive demographic. She has a hands-on approach and is very professionally organized (even as an individual consultant) with a detailed online knowledge base, tools & templates, and FAQs. She pushed me hard to introspect in spite of challenging timelines without compromising on quality, which paid off! She uses the right mix of standardization and personalization required to put together a strong resume and authentic essays efficiently. As a result, we could work on 3 schools in R1 over ~60-70 days without feeling rushed. We worked on a thrice a week cadence (~7-8 hours weekly), which is impressive for someone working with multiple candidates. Beyond the application too, her interview related guidance was very useful and well-structured, including a couple of mocks for the Wharton TBD. She’s been instrumental in helping secure an admit to Wharton, which was my top choice. Over time, Niketa has become a friend with very relevant and candid professional advice. I would strongly recommend working with her!

Niketa was a fantastic consultant to work with. When deciding I approached multiple top consultants but what stood out to me was the Niketa did not try to put me in a mould to fit a standard story and in fact also encouraged me to take time off and figure out whether the MBA made sense for me or not. Once I started working with her, she listened patiently to everyone of my life stories and dedicated hours to my application never once complaining about the number of iterations. She was receptive to my concerns and points and helped mould a story that felt true to me and brought out the essence to the admissions committee. She was a strong support system throughout the application process and it would have been impossible to get through with her and her team’s help.

While I was starting my MBA applications, I got in touch with several lead consultants but it was only Niketa who was interested in my life journey and not just the CV points. That’s when I felt comfortable and decided to work with her.
AB’s approach is really structured. The experience discovery sheets will push one to think deeper in our stories. It’s very guided and doesn’t leave room to miss details. The knowledge base is very helpful in understanding what school looks for in a candidate.
Niketa’s strength in looking into the details and building a strong story out of it is unmatched. The most important aspect of MBA applications is discipline. Niketa always time bounds all the actions in such a way that one doesn’t end up messing things up in the last moment.
The whole AB team is very responsive. I remember putting slightest of the doubts on WhatsApp and I always got timely response. Niketa also connected me to a few B-school alums to do mock interviews, in addition to regular mock sessions with her.
The application process is long and gruelling, but Niketa does make it easy by being your biggest motivator:)
I am glad that I made a decision to work with Niketa. Can’t thank the entire team enough

Working with Niketa was an absolute delight. Her methodical brainstorming sessions ensured that the most pertinent stories were highlighted effectively, enhancing the overall strength of my applications.

What truly sets Niketa apart is her tireless dedication to her clients’ success. Not only did she provide invaluable guidance and insights, but she also pushed me to complete my to-dos within timelines to ensure that deadlines were met without compromising on quality.

The best part about working with her is that there is no restriction on the amount of time / number of calls she will dedicate towards your application; whatever be the requirement, she’ll ensure that justice to the application is done. Moreover, Niketa is backed by an exceptional team comprising individuals like Shweta, Shruti, and a panel of interviewers, all of whom exhibit the same level of accessibility and promptness.

I am immensely grateful to admit beacon and wholeheartedly recommend her services to anyone seeking to apply for an MBA!

Niketa is a wonderful consultant who takes the time to get to know you and your story and aspirations deeply and then helps you craft your MBA story and application accordingly. She is very responsive and there is no restriction on the number of calls or time that she will spend on your application and she makes sure to give you the full attention over multiple drafts till your application is perfect. She also helps you post submission with mock interviews and detailed feedback to help you improve on your interview skills and is also always there to help you with your post acceptance journey as well, with her insights on which schools to choose, scholarship negotiation as well as other important B-school factors being crucial to finally selecting your school. Having spoken to multiple consultants at the start of my MBA journey, she was the only one who I felt took the time to understand my background and gave me the confidence to apply to the top MBA programs despite being from an overrepresented background and a below average undergraduate GPA and I’m extremely glad that I went along with her guidance.

Niketa and her team were extremely helpful throughout the entire process. She has been my pillar of support right from the decision to apply for a MBA to my external scholarship search post my admit.

Unlike other consultants, what stands out is her:
– Ability to listen deeply
– Understand perspectives
– Respect your thoughts
– Do infinite iterations
– Most importantly, treat you as an individual who doesn’t have to fit in a success framework

She was always 150% invested in my application and often took time out during difficult circumstances (festivals, family emergencies etc.) as well. I don’t think I could have done it without Admit Beacon’s help and I am glad to have gained a friend and mentor for life!

I simply could not have achieved these results without Niketa’s support. A couple of things that stand out about her approach –

In my first call when I was trying to find out which counselor would suit me best, I was instantly sure of Niketa as she came prepared with a couple of ideas on the story I could form based on my experiences. I only saw this quality shine throughout the journey as she always heard my rambling thoughts deeply and came up with ideas on how we could knit the story together so it conveyed my story while retaining the authenticity of my voice.

What I think she does best is helping you realize what in your story makes you YOU and how you can form a strong personal and professional identity. In many cases, I would discount the things I had done professionally and personally and she would always pick up on the nuances and ensure I highlight it in my application.

No matter the amount of stress and repeated iterations, she will keep working with you till the very end to ensure the application is the best effort possible.

Beyond all the expert advice, she understands the journey requires a lot of emotional support and is not transactional in her approach. She could recognize when the pressure was getting to me, and would send me texts and voice notes that I am well prepared and have everything in control to give me confidence.

Applying for B-schools is an extremely overwhelming journey and I couldn’t have imagined doing it without Niketa!

I had the privilege of collaborating with Niketa for my INSEAD application. Despite a high GMAT score, uncertainty lingered, but Niketa’s invaluable assistance proved transformative. Her thorough profile analysis, honest feedback, and strategic timing recommendations were instrumental. Unlike other consultants, Niketa’s genuine support, respect for my goals, and a non-pushy approach set her apart. Her guidance extended to interview preparation, contributing significantly to my successful admission to INSEAD.

Highlights –

1. Brilliant understanding of the niche industry and sector I have been working with to bring out the best possible narrative and a logical goal statement.

2. Focus on authentic personal stories to bring out your natural character and traits in alignment with the fit of the school

I am confident that I secured the ideal consultant for my MBA journey and beyond. Entering the application process with various concerns stemming from my distinctive yet generic profile, I wondered how to stand out to business schools. Addressing uncertainties about highlighting specific aspects of my profile, portraying them effectively, and bridging gaps, Niketa emerged as a reassuring presence, alleviating the stress associated with the entire process. Her expertise ensured that I showcased what mattered most to each school, effectively emphasizing my passion. Moreover, she skillfully brought out the unique aspects of my professional and personal life in my application.

Navigating through different stages of the application process, including school shortlisting, resume review, essays, and interview preparation, Niketa guided me toward the right fit, enabling me to present my best self. The outcome surpassed my expectations, as I not only gained admission to my top-choice school but also received a full scholarship. Niketa’s in-depth knowledge about each school greatly facilitated my research. All in all, my experience could not have been better.

I cannot speak highly enough of my experience working with Niketa as my MBA consultant. She has been an incredible source of encouragement and motivation throughout the entire application process, and her unwavering belief in my abilities has been truly transformative.

1. Encouraging and motivating: From the very beginning, Niketa stood out among other consultants I had spoken to. While many were quick to doubt my varied professional experiences, my scores and even my desire to target top B-schools, Niketa was the beacon of positivity I needed. She dismissed my apprehensions and showed immense confidence in my profile, which instantly boosted my self-confidence.

2. Deep understanding of non-traditional backgrounds: What sets Niketa apart is her knowledge of non-traditional backgrounds & sectors. She quickly grasped the intricacies of my professional journey and was able to consolidate my diverse experiences into a compelling narrative. Her insights were invaluable in helping me select the right schools for my profile, and her guidance throughout the application process was spot-on.

3. Dedication and approachability: Niketa maintained a regular and reliable schedule of weekly or bi-weekly meetings, ensuring that I remained on track and never felt lost in the process. Additionally, she was always accessible on WhatsApp, providing prompt feedback and support whenever I needed it. I appreciated her preparedness for our meetings; her insights were consistently sharp, clear, and tailored to my specific needs.

4. Transparency, honesty, and selflessness: These qualities are what truly set Niketa apart! While I initially wanted to work on applications for five schools, she candidly advised that focusing on three top schools would be more strategic, given our time constraints and the unique nature of these applications. Her honesty in managing expectations demonstrated her genuine interest in my success rather than merely pushing for additional clients. Her thorough feedback on every aspect of my application, coupled with specific improvement suggestions, made a significant difference in strengthening my candidacy.

Moreover, Niketa’s selflessness and support extended beyond our formal engagement. Even when I sought to apply to schools outside the three we were working on together, she generously provided me with access to resources and continued to offer guidance to these additional schools even during my interviews.

5. You may give up on yourself, but Niketa won’t: I cannot emphasize enough how Niketa’s unwavering dedication kept me going during the arduous application process. When I felt exhausted and demotivated to write yet another application, she became my biggest cheerleader, encouraging me to persevere, especially when I applied to INSEAD, the last school I applied to during the admissions cycle. Her relentless support pushed me to complete the application, leading to my acceptance at INSEAD.

I am immensely grateful to Niketa for being more than just a consultant; she has been my best critic, supporter, and mentor throughout my MBA application journey. Her genuine care for her clients and dedication to their success make her an exceptional consultant, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking expert guidance and unwavering support on their academic journey. Thank you, Niketa, for everything you do!

Working with Niketa has been an absolute game-changer for my MBA application journey, and I cannot thank her enough for her invaluable guidance and support. Her exceptional skills and approach to counseling truly set her apart, and I credit her for my successful admission into INSEAD and HEC Paris.

To put things in context, I have been in touch with Niketa since 2021 while preparing for GMAT. Once I got done with it (which took several attempts), Round 1 was already over and I was completely clueless about how I should approach my applications given I was already behind in the current cycle. Niketa not only agreed to onboard me that late but also chalked out a clear plan in terms of my target school/safe school and dream school. If not for her, I would not have even thought to apply to the top 5 B-schools given my then situation and the timeline I was working with.

One of Niketa’s most remarkable qualities is her ability to listen deeply. Throughout our collaboration, she displayed a remarkable talent for identifying the hidden emotions and insights in my stories, helping me craft a compelling and authentic application. She made me feel comfortable and safe sharing even the most personal experiences that truly made my application stand out.

Niketa’s level of preparation for our meetings was second to none. She came fully equipped with insights, tips, feedback, and thoughtful questions for every meeting. Niketa skillfully highlighted my outstanding qualities and life experiences, helping me understand and articulate application questions in a way that resonated deeply with my true self.

Niketa’s ability to design a thoughtful strategy was another standout aspect of her consultancy. She mapped my strengths to specific components of the application, allowing me to identify gaps and add more meaningful anecdotes to strengthen my case.

Her approach to editing went beyond mere surface-level changes; she delved into the deeper meaning, structure, and storytelling of my essays, providing suggestions that significantly improved the overall narrative. Niketa’s brainstorming sessions along with Admit Beacon’s Knowledge Base resulted in better explanations and a stronger application.

I must emphasize Niketa’s patience and understanding when it came to multiple iterations and queries. She never showed any annoyance or rush, recognizing the importance of this process and her exceptional time management skills ensured we met deadlines without unnecessary stress.

Furthermore, Niketa’s calming presence during nerve-wracking moments was a true blessing. I used to be extremely nervous before my interviews, but having a small chat with her would calm me down & help me believe in myself and my story and enter the interview confidently.

She was more of a friend than a consultant who wanted me to attend the best business school and not doubt myself while putting forward my candidature. In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Niketa as an MBA admission consultant. Her unique blend of skills, including deep listening, personal branding expertise, thoughtful strategy development, and genuine human connection, makes her an exceptional choice for any aspiring applicant. Niketa has played a crucial role in my journey to INSEAD, and I am confident she can do the same for others.

Niketa is a catalyst for success. I was a re-applicant when I approached her and was very skeptical of the value that consultants add given my experience with other consultants was not great. However, multiple people recommended Niketa and everybody had the same thing to say about her, that she is exceptional. And it turned out to be true in every sense. Her expertise, guidance, and personalized approach added immense value, ultimately resulting in admission offer and scholarship from Columbia Business School.

Niketa is great at picking out good stories from one’s life. She listens patiently and puts in time and effort to understand the journey/story of the applicant. She brainstorms the ideas with the candidate and helps craft compelling narratives, ensuring that each essay reflects a unique personality and aligns with the values of the respective institutions.

She is like a master chess player when it comes to preparing strategy for the application process. She is spot on about what schools to focus on first, what part of the application should the candidate prioritize, what skills should the candidate highlight, by when should the candidate submit the application etc. Niketa is very skilled at her job and knows exactly what the admission team looks for in the candidate.

She played an instrumental role in helping not just me but also my wife to get an admit from CBS. Despite her busy schedule, Niketa agreed to help my wife who approached her during Round 2. I cannot recommend her enough. She is a true gem!!

Despite facing initial setback with lower-than-desired GRE and GMAT scores, Niketa’s unwavering support, expertise, and personalized guidance proved to be the game-changer in my admissions journey. I am eternally grateful for her exceptional contributions that made this happen. I would highly recommend Niketa for the following reasons:

1. Strong understanding across industries and trends (she really knows what she is talking about!): from the very first interaction, it was evident that Niketa not only possessed an in-depth knowledge of unique preferences of admissions committees across schools but also of the nuances and developments across different sectors (in my case healthcare). Her strong network and profound understanding of evolving businesses played a HUGE role as I crafted my application strategy and penned down my goals. Even during the interview process, she played an instrumental role in ensuring that I was well prepared to answer any healthcare-related questions that came my way

2. She’s not the one to give up (even when you might yourself want to): Starting the process, I knew that my score was my Achilles’ heel, which landed me on the waitlist – at both CBS and Wharton. At each point, Niketa remained hopeful and guided me on what more I could do to bolster my application. Naturally, my process did not end at just interviews but required additional support with a waitlist strategy and many more interventions. Niketa’s dedication to my success was unwavering. She continued to guide me on strengthening my leadership experiences, emphasizing my commitment to personal growth, and framing my achievements in a compelling narrative till the “maybe” from both schools turned into “yes”!

3. Super approachable (you are really not alone!): Having heard from friends how other counsellors have much longer turn around times and only email as a communication channel – I can say with utmost confidence that there is no other admission counsellor as approachable and invested in the process as Niketa. For all things big and small, she was always a text and phone call way and this was truly comforting in this otherwise daunting journey

Thanks to her tireless efforts, I received admits from both Wharton and Columbia Business School. Niketa’s outstanding skill set, coupled with her personalized approach and unwavering support, truly made all the difference in my admissions success. She went above and beyond in providing timely and insightful feedback on my drafts, challenging me to refine my ideas and express myself with clarity. Her meticulous attention to detail and ability to help me find my authentic voice resulted in application materials that were both impactful and genuine.

I wholeheartedly recommend Niketa – working with her is a decision that will undoubtedly propel you towards success, and I am forever grateful for the immense impact she has had on my academic and professional future.

Top 10 behaviors other counselors should copy from Niketa:

1. Listens deeply:
There are hidden emotions and insights in every story an applicant shares with their counselors. Niketa is a GENIUS at picking out gems from the noise. All 3 main points of my main essay were identified and polished by Niketa.

2. Non-judgemental:
Some of the stories I shared with Niketa, I was uncomfortable sharing with other counselors. Niketa has a way of making the applicant feel comfortable and safe. These touchy-feely stories are exactly what makes an application stand out.

3. Comes prepared to meetings:
During my meetings with my previous counselors, I could sense they did not get time to read through my essay or prepare for the meeting. Niketa, on the other hand, comes fully prepared for each meeting, with insights, tips, feedback, and questions. This is the most impressive thing about her. Btw, she shares the meeting recordings with you for later watching.

4. Helps with Personal Branding:
Niketa established which of my outstanding qualities and life experiences we wanted to highlight in our application early on. It just made the entire process much more rich and meaningful. For the first time, I could understand what my personal brand was. Niketa helped me articulate “what matters most to me” in a way that it finally resonated with me and actually represented who I am.

5. Designs a thoughtful strategy:
My previous counselors (Top 5 globally) were just running in different directions in each meeting; no cohesive plan or strategy. But Niketa remained on track till the end. She considered the overall strategy to identify which areas needed more emphasis and which areas could be dropped. We mapped each of my strengths to a specific component of the application (resume vs essay vs short answers vs transcript vs [expected] recommendations) in which it would be highlighted. With the added clarity I was able to identify gaps in my application and think of more anecdotes to fill those gaps.

6. Does real “Editing”, not Grammarly:
Many counselors just do superficial “editing” – something that I can do with Grammarly. But Niketa goes into the deeper meaning, structure, and story-telling to suggest edits. She considers the overall strategy to suggest major edits. She brainstorms with you to come up with better explanations. She comes prepared to the meetings with many ideas.

7. Okay with infinite iterations:
In the past, I have sensed other counselors getting annoyed by multiple iterations or with my questions. But Niketa understands the importance of this application in the life of a person. She is very considerate and is okay with answering queries and doing updates based on our discussions. She is able to balance this with proper time management so that we don’t miss deadlines. She helps with managing time without increasing unnecessary stress.

8. Understands the domain:
Niketa has impressive and up-to-date knowledge of the business world. Her insights and ideas have not just helped in creating a successful admissions application but also a successful startup pitch for me (Niketa, for stock options please join our board of directors haha). She also understands the admissions process by virtue of her past experience. She is very practical in her advice on specific colleges, which is a rare find.

9. Understands when to stop:
During my mock interview preparation, she observed that I was becoming over-prepared, so she recommended that I take a break and get rest. This is important because only a true counselor can give such advice. Others just want to clock the hours and give you 10 more areas of improvement you should work on.

10. Is a human:
Working with other counselors felt like working with robots who don’t have any time except for the 45-minute time slot you book with them. But Niketa is a real human being, who understands your story and is able to bring out the best narrative of your life through her non-judgemental and cheerful approach.

Context: I have been admitted to Stanford GSB, as a reapplicant. This would just not have been possible without Niketa.

I have worked with 2 of the top global consultants in the past. But I did not realize what an Admissions Counselor actually means until I started working with Niketa. I wish all applicants could work with Niketa, but since that’s not feasible I would like all other counselors to pick a few behaviors from Niketa so that all applicants can get a great service.

Niketa’s advice to me as a reapplicant not only helped me get into my dream business school but also honestly shaped and molded my outlook towards an MBA. Her approach towards reapplicants is unique and unparalleled through her hourly advising, a possible pioneering first for an MBA consultant in India. She counsels her clients adequately to ensure that their goals are realistic while also backing and looking out for you. Even during rough times (Back to back rejections post interviews), Niketa went beyond her role as a consultant and offered to help and counsel me (for which I am very thankful). Her services enabled me to secure interview calls across all my applications at INSEAD, Columbia and Kellogg. I never thought I could get into an M7 B-school. Niketa made it happen.

As a Round 2 applicant with a limited timeframe and the ambitious goal of targeting some of the most prestigious schools, including HSW, I needed someone who understood the intricacies of the application process and could guide me effectively. Niketa surpassed all my expectations.

From the very beginning, Niketa displayed a remarkable ability to keep me on track without ever pressurizing or rushing me. She understood the significance of each step and ensured that I maintained a steady pace without compromising the quality of my application. Her deep knowledge and experience in the field were evident throughout our collaboration, providing me with valuable insights and strategies to stand out from the highly competitive applicant pool.

However, what truly distinguishes Niketa as an exceptional consultant is her ability to remain calm and composed, even during the most nerve-wracking moments. As the deadline for submission approached and panic began to set in, Niketa’s reassuring presence and words of encouragement became a source of immense comfort. She reminded me of the solid foundation I had built and helped me realize that all I needed to do was present it in the best possible way. This support was invaluable, transforming what could have been a stressful experience into one filled with excitement and motivation.

I wholeheartedly recommend Niketa as an MBA consultant. Her professionalism, expertise, and genuine care for her clients’ success make her an exceptional choice. Whether you’re aiming for top-tier schools or navigating a tight timeline, Niketa is the consultant you want by your side. Her calm demeanor and unwavering support will not only boost your confidence but also bring out the best in your application. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with Niketa and credit her as a significant factor in my acceptance to Harvard Business School.

Niketa provided invaluable guidance and support throughout my MBA application process. Her expertise and guidance helped me secure admits from INSEAD, Oxford, HEC and NUS.

I think what sets Niketa apart is her ability to tailor her advice to unique profile and aspirations. She delved deep into my background, helping me connect the dots and craft a compelling narrative that highlighted my strengths and motivations. Her candid feedback was pivotal in refining my story and ensuring authenticity.

Niketa’s organized and predictable work style was a lifesaver, allowing me to juggle tight schedules without compromising quality. Her prompt responses and frank insights kept me on track and honest with myself throughout the journey.

Moreover, Niketa’s vast repository of school-specific resources and insider tips proved invaluable. She has an impressive collection of insights and strategies at her fingertips, making the application process smoother and more effective.

Beyond her technical expertise, Niketa’s unwavering support and mentorship were truly remarkable. She became a trusted thought partner, always approachable and ready to offer guidance. Her ability to transform a potentially stressful process into an enjoyable one was priceless.

I wholeheartedly recommend Niketa to anyone seeking expert advice and a genuine partner in the MBA application journey. Her commitment to her clients’ success is unmatched, and I am forever grateful for her contribution to my accomplishments!

Niketa’s approach to the application process is so structured and well planned that I did not feel stressed or had to worry about the timelines. She was already a few steps ahead of me and kept the energy high. one of the best things about Niketa is that she almost always knows how you are feelings and takes out the time to calm you down or boost your morale when we need it the most. She seemed so much more invested in my journey than me and pushed me to dream bigger.
What surprises me is how despite her busy schedule, she is always up do date on the industry trends and numbers. By the end it felt like she knew way more about the industry I work in than many folks who have spent years working in it.
She is definitely the best in the industry yet she continues to push herself and stay grounded. Highly recommend her no matter what industry you’re in or your target college!

Niketa has played an instrumental role in helping me get into my dream school! I cannot recommend her enough – she is a true expert in her field, and her dedication to my success has been nothing short of remarkable.

Throughout the MBA application process, Niketa has consistently provided me with invaluable advice and insights that have helped me craft a standout application. Her wealth of knowledge and experience in this field have been evident from the very beginning, and she has gone above and beyond to ensure that I was fully prepared and confident in my application.

But beyond her technical skills, what sets Niketa apart is her unwavering commitment to my success. She has been there for me every step of the way, offering encouragement, support, and guidance whenever I needed it. She has taken the time to get to know me, understand my strengths and weaknesses, and help me highlight my unique qualities in my application.

Thanks to Niketa’s guidance and support, I was able to put my best foot forward in my application and impress the admissions committee at my dream school. I have no doubt that her expertise and insights played a pivotal role in helping me achieve this accomplishment, and I’m so happy to be attending my dream school.

Overall, Niketa is an exceptional professional who has helped me achieve my goals and dreams. She has not only provided me with invaluable guidance and support, but also been a trusted ally and mentor throughout this process. I highly recommend her to anyone who is looking for expert advice and guidance in the MBA application process. Thank you so much, Niketa, for everything!

Niketa was an extremely supportive partner during the application process. Her experience and knowledge helped her navigate the nuanced application processes of the different M7 schools. More importantly, she paid close attention to my profile and her advice to me was evidently tailored to my needs, rather than generic, cookie-cutter guidance. This helped me reflect on my story and professional history in a new way and was important for presenting my resume and essays in an authentic and unique way. In my experience, her coaching style is unique in that she is very approachable. This helped convert the entire process from what I expected to be stressful into a relatively enjoyable one.

I was coming out of a difficult application cycle last year when Niketa and I started working on my class of 2025 applications. I had hit a roadblock on my personal story, was unsure about my career goals, and felt like a vanilla candidate.

Niketa fought very hard for me – she pushed and guided me to introspect more on my personal life / deepest struggles, helped personalize my school research to my specific career trajectory/goals, and crafted a compelling and differentiated story.

She has a fantastic understanding of top business schools and the MBA application process – I could clearly see the nuances across my individual school applications. Her knowledge resources made it very easy for me to efficiently put together various pieces of the app. And she invested a significant amount of time in refining my essays and making them stand out from the crowd. I was very confident about my applications at the time of submission.

I admire how approachable, supportive, and responsive Niketa has been even in the most hectic phases of the process (major major positive given how draining applications are). She has been a calming influence and a true friend during this ride.

Niketa is not just a consultant but a true thought partner. Having made unconventional career choices such as switching from Dev Sec Consulting to Family Real Estate business, I wasn’t sure how receptive schools would be to my application. But Niketa’s ideas on how to play these choices into my strengths helped me weave a purposeful MBA story. She is always candid and honest with her feedback and can truly help you bring out the best in you.

I first reached out to Niketa two years ago. Although she wasn’t onboarding additional clients for personal reasons, it was incredibly kind of her to offer to speak with me during a difficult time for her. In that call, it took her only a few minutes to grasp my story and unconventional career, before she gave me incredibly valuable insights. She had been following my journey on LinkedIn, and I will never forget the words she said then, when I wasn’t even her client, “I just want you to get into a good school”.

So, when I decided to reapply for the Class of 2025, working with Admit Beacon was an absolute no-brainer. Now, having secured an admit to a top-10 school, despite having an average GMAT, low GPA, and no big “brand” on my resume, I couldn’t have been happier. In particular, the following aspects stood out for me while working with Admit Beacon:

– Niketa is sharp as a tack: She has extensive knowledge of business schools, their curriculum, application pool, clubs, and whatnot! Her market research abilities are excellent. Sometimes, she would have updates and inside news about my industry before I did! Pro tip – while brainstorming your story with Niketa or during feedback sessions, listen more than you speak. She drops tonnes of gems, and there is so much to learn from her.

– Accessibility is underrated: For first-timers, the application process can feel VERY daunting. In my first year of applying, I was constantly riddled with anxiety and uncertainty, but in working with Niketa, I had a seamless and joyful experience. She was always a phone call and text message away. She follows an open calendar policy, has sometimes reviewed essay drafts with a TAT of 2 hours, and also replied to my texts at 3 A.M. It is due to these reasons that once while making major changes to my essay, 30 minutes before the final submission deadline, I was calm as a cucumber. Pro tip – Do not let business school applications take over your life. Breathe, and know that it’s also a game of chance.

– Thorough: From crafting your school selection strategy to perfection to being the therapist you didn’t know you needed, Niketa wears multiple hats, even unknowingly. Her thoroughness stems from the fact that she has studied at one of the best B-schools herself, and has worked with both high-achieving and unconventional candidates. She will ask you to follow the Instagram and Youtube pages of the colleges you plan to apply to, chase you to speak to multiple students and alums, and even follow up if you’re a day late with drafts. Meticulous.

– Knowledge portal: Admit Beacon’s knowledge portal is a treasure trove of information. It has college-specific micro-sites with detailed information about each aspect of the application and interview process (post-admit scholarship application too). I found it to be a very useful tool, and can’t recommend it enough!

– Empathetic individual and patient listener: It’s incredible how invested Niketa is in her client’s success. She is empathetic to situations and challenges and is one of the most patient listeners I know. I was able to share sensitive aspects of my personal life with her with a great element of comfort. These qualities, for me, are what stand out the most.

Simply said, Niketa is the best in the business. Choosing to work with Admit Beacon was one of the finest decisions I made in my B-school application journey. In her, I have found a life coach and a friend.

I did get into a good college, as she had hoped and promised. Although, in our last meeting, she said that while she was very happy for me, I deserved to go to the top 3. We both smiled. That’s Niketa for you – invested, persistent, and uplifting.

Niketa is the most amazing consultant for sure. Really brings out your story.

Coming from a non-traditional professional background, Niketa helped me connect the dots throughout my life, dig deeper into the past and narrate my motivations and aspirations in a cohesive manner. While I cannot emphasize her role enough throughout the process, Niketa’s candid feedback during interviews was pivotal in identifying the quick adjustments I had to make in delivery to retain authenticity and to communicate effectively. Not only did Niketa push me to reflect on and articulate my life story in an impeccable manner but she also helped me navigate special situations in my career during the application period. Situations that required an overhaul of the future career trajectory during applications. The final product matters a lot, however, the day-to-day is also equally important. Niketa’s organized and predictable work style was a great fit for juggling tight work schedules while her frank and prompt responses helped me stay honest with myself about the milestones in the process. Finally, the repository of school-specific resources that she has created and the tips and tricks that she has at the back of her hand are truly special.

Niketa was highly recommended to me by a close friend and I have had a truly amazing experience! Her greatest strength is in her ability to be a great thought partner, helping me to brainstorm and structure my thoughts.

During the entire process, she consistently provided me with honest feedback and encouraged me to strive for excellence, even if it required significantly more effort or numerous revisions.

I was also particularly impressed by her deep knowledge of my field – electric vehicles and sustainability – which helped me to craft a more nuanced and informed application that spoke directly to my interests and goals.

Working extensively for months on my application with Niketa, I picked up many brainstorming, storytelling, and research skill sets that I am sure will serve me well across my professional and personal life.

Overall, I would highly recommend Niketa to anyone looking to embark on the admissions process.

I worked with Niketa on 7 B-school applications in Round 1. Her approach towards the process was very organic and involved. She would try to understand you beyond your professional and personal achievements and shape your essays to best reflect your accurate identity and personality. I really liked the organized approach that Niketa followed to schedule review calls and mock interviews with Admit Beacon alums to get unbiased feedback. Thanks to Niketa, I got an admit to LBS and plan to join their MBA class of 2025.

Before I even began the application process, Niketa was always full of helpful advice on structuring my career to optimize B-school outcomes. Once I signed on with her, she was 100% hands-on throughout the application season. The vast knowledge she has amassed from her experience in the field has equipped her with a toolkit of what works and what doesn’t. This knowledge extends beyond B-schools and well into the world of post-MBA careers in various industries
Initially, we conducted extensive brainstorming to weave a coherent story for the schools that took into account my background, unique career stints, and intermediate choices. Niketa’s advice covered aspects beyond just the application form and helped me envision my post-MBA career in greater detail. She helped me bring out the best aspects of my candidature onto the resume and patiently went through multiple iterations until we were both satisfied with its quality.
The recommendation and essay writing process worked in tandem, where Niketa helped me prioritize the best stories that either worked from my perspective or my recommenders’. She has a unique way of bringing out the most differentiating aspects of a story that help build a stronger application, which she used to add finishing touches to everything we wrote. Throughout this process, she was available for every little conversation either over e-mail or call. Her comments and suggestions were always backed with rationale and she communicated them well. The entire process was more collaborative than unilateral.
The interview preparation process was two-pronged. While Niketa offered to do multiple mocks before each interview, she also helped me connect with current students or alumni of various target schools who then offered to conduct mock interviews as well. Her feedback after every mock interview was pointed and actionable. She was just as happy to not do mocks and provide general brainstorming conversations ahead of the actual interview. While the interview preparation and results process is bound to take a toll on the candidate’s mental well-being, Niketa was fully cooperative throughout the ordeal and encouraged me to do my best.
All in all, I wholeheartedly credit Niketa with the outcomes I was able to get. Over and above being a consultant, she was an equal partner in the process and shared in all its highs and lows.

Niketa is the best Admissions Consultant out there! She is so involved every step of the way and really wants you to succeed. The amount of time and effort she puts in has no comparison! Coming from a no-name college and employment, I was always doubtful about my success! But Niketa knew exactly what works and what doesn’t and she presented my story in the best way possible. For anyone going for MBA abroad, working with Niketa should be a no-brainer! She will force you to think and reflect and put your best foot forward!

I had an amazing experience working with Niketa! Given her vast experience in the field, she knew exactly what points to highlight in my story and how to position my application in the best manner. She provided very thorough interview prep as well along with a video recording which helped me improve a lot.
P.S.: I’m a reapplicant and had applied to the same school in the previous round but didn’t get in. So Niketa definitely played a big role in getting me an admit this time!

Niketa is not just an Admissions Consultant; she is a Life Coach. I started the MBA admissions process thinking I needed a consultant to help me portray my journey into an attractive package – and I could not have been more wrong! Niketa pushed me to reflect deeper and recognize my roots and personal values. Working with Niketa, I developed my muscle for reflection, which I had not previously exercised much. Niketa is an empathetic listener and a passionate learner. These traits allowed her to understand my non-profit (and non-traditional) background and consequently support me in highlighting the appropriate experiences. Under Niketa’s mentorship, I not only secured admissions to my dream schools but also attained greater self-awareness and clarity about my life goals.

Niketa helped me convey my story in an appealing way to the admissions committee while ensuring that I was authentic and true to my values. Her vast knowledge of each school’s unique offerings helped me answer the ‘why this school’ questions effectively. The interview prep offered by her also helped a lot in the final stages of the application process. Highly recommend!

Niketa has been the backbone of my MBA application process over the past year. Right from the initial conversation to interview prep, she showed up with the intention to make things work for me and in doing so, was honest and considerate in how she shared feedback.

She helped me navigate the choices of schools given my unique preference to stay within the social impact space and maximize my chances at these schools given my non-traditional background. She knows what works for each school so well, and my admission decisions were just in line with her predictions!

She is very hands-on, and takes the time your application needs to get it to be the best it can be. She is a great mentor and will show up as a cheerleader for you throughout the process.

I would highly recommend Niketa to anyone who’s looking for consultants who will work with you despite not being from the top schools, with top scores, or not having worked at ‘branded’ organizations. She’s extremely empathetic and looks at these metrics as parts of your application and not the entirety of it!

Niketa clearly knows what schools are looking for and walks you through each step in detail via very precise information from her website and one-on-one sessions. She makes adequate time for an application.

No one from my far stretch of the family has stepped foot abroad for their education. And for one such as me, stepping foot in the tricky yet prestigious land of the US for my MBA was a big step. I was nervous about even the most basic things – what to fill in the form, in this field, what to ask for in recommendations – and yet, I was fortunate to find my guidance partner in Niketa.

Niketa and I started interacting a couple of years back when I was applying in R2, as an overrepresented candidate in US T-10 schools. Over the course of the next 1 year, our work together led me to be selected/ waitlisted in 9 out of 10 T-10 schools in my second year of application in R1. I had final offers from Kellogg, Fuqua, Ross, NYU Stern, and Darden. I will be joining Kellogg this fall, but this was very much possible due to the rich guidance of Niketa, who from day-1 promoted an eagerness to know your story and help you narrate it in a way most authentic to you. This is not as common in the MBA consulting space as I hear from other friends. She guides you to select your schools, your strategy for each, and if there are any synergies between schools. Honestly laying it out -> getting more no. of schools for a higher service check is NOT on her mind. She even went out of her way to help me in my waitlisted period (which is brutal) without any hesitation or expectation.

I would highly recommend people who looking to start their journeys to talk with Niketa at least once and get her candid advice on your plans.

I worked with Niketa on applications to four schools. She came highly recommended by colleagues and her track record/great vibes convinced me to work with her.

Niketa really knows her stuff! While working with her on essays she helped me get clarity on my post-MBA goals by linking my interests and work experience with opportunities available post-MBA. Throughout the process, she was extremely honest in her feedback and would always push me to put my best foot forward (even if it meant 5x more work / multiple iterations of the same piece of work).

Prep for interviews with Niketa deserves a special mention. She has a repository of school-specific questions along with feedback from past interviews which she leverages to help you prepare for your interviews without compromising on uniqueness/authenticity.