Shabri Malik

TLDR: Got into Stanford, Wharton & Booth, all with $$$ scholarships. As a counsellor, Shabri is second to none 🙂

My experience:
I’d been advised by many seniors that working with a good consultant is one of the most critical decisions for MBA applications. So I spent time speaking to over ten of the top MBA consultants globally. Coming from a quant background, I felt a bit underconfident about my chances — and while many consultants I spoke to had worked with similar profiles, it simply didn’t feel like an emphatic yes.

My conversation with Shabri was lovely. There was a natural exchange; she asked a lot of questions to get a sense of my story, and she was already giving me feedback on things I could improve for H/S. I truly felt like she believed in me.

In my application process, I found that she knows what each school needs, helps bring out a coherent narrative from all your professional experience, maintains a high standard of care for ALL parts of the application, and spends time bringing out your authentic experiences.

She also tailored her approach at different points to offer more support where I needed it. Through so many conversations, we brainstormed the best way to convey my story, and she kept refining it with her insights and expertise.

In every mock she kept a high bar and gave constructive feedback. As we approached the real interviews, she’d just tell me to relax — we’d already stress-tested everything.

What meant the most to me was that she truly cared. She was genuinely rooting for me and believed in me even when I was scared to. I still remember when I didn’t get an interview for a school we’d put a lot into — Shabri was more dejected than I was, and she made sure I didn’t lose motivation.

I’ve had candid conversations with peers who worked with other popular consultants, and honestly, nobody comes close. Working with Shabri never felt stilted, and she’s really funny, which definitely helps in something as stressful as MBA apps.

Everyone’s story is worthy, but it takes a lot of conviction to believe that. Shabri brought that to me. I’m sure I would not have enjoyed this process as much as I did, or gotten my dream school admits, with anyone else.

Shabri was an exceptional admissions consultant throughout my MBA application journey. She combined deep knowledge of the admissions process with thoughtful, personalized guidance, helping me articulate my story and goals in a compelling way. Her feedback was candid, actionable, and always timely, and she consistently pushed me to present the strongest version of myself. Thanks in large part to her support, I received admits from Kellogg (with a scholarship) and Columbia, along with an interview invite from Wharton. Beyond the applications themselves, she was a trusted advisor during a stressful process, and I would highly recommend her to anyone navigating the MBA admissions journey.

I came to Shabri after two unsuccessful MBA application cycles with other well-known consultants, and as an over-represented international applicant, I genuinely wondered whether an M7 admit was realistic for me. Working with her completely changed both the quality of my applications and my confidence in my story.

What makes Shabri exceptional is her deep understanding of what top schools are looking for and how personal invested she is in making sure you succeed. She is extremely direct when something is not working but her feedback is always thoughtful and geared toward getting the best possible outcome. She helped position myself as someone who is authentic and differentiated.

Shabri pushed me hard, but also took the time to understand who I was and what I actually should say. She was thoughtful, responsive, patient and consistently raised the bar while helping me sound like the best version of myself.

The result was better than I could have hoped for: admits to Columbia and Kellogg, with $170K in scholarship. I truly wish I had worked with Shabri earlier and cannot recommend her highly enough.

Working with Shabri was the best decision in my MBA application journey.

When I started in July planning to apply to 4 schools in R1, I was extremely worried. But within the first 3-4 conversations, that worry had vanished. Understanding me, she put timelines on an excel and sat through brainstorms and revisions.

My personal story, the one that fuels me, is also one that very few friends know. Yet Shabri created an environment that felt safe to share the big and small things. She not only remembered those details, she reminded and helped me pull them together months later when I couldn’t. Version after version she made me dive deeper into my own stories, asking the tough questions, even when it felt uncomfortable (especially then!). Those moments of discomfort are where I got my strongest essays.

When a work travel and a target school interview coincided, with hardly any time to prep, my confidence plummeted. Shabri sat through those moments, believing in me more than I did she helped me regain my composure.

So if Shabri does agree to work with you, there shouldn’t be a speck of doubt in your mind. She is meticulous at what she does, and an extraordinary human, one who truly cares. At times beating my closest friends to checking in after an interview or an awaited result.

When deciding to invest in my MBA journey, I spoke to numerous consultants, and immediately after conversing with AG and Shabri, I knew she was the best person for me to work with. Her client’s list of acceptances, numbers, and statistics speaks for itself, but behind this excellent MBA consultant, I also found a great listener, advisor, and thought partner as I navigated this life-stage transition.

First of all, Shabri is really with you every step of the way and will not let you submit any application until it passes her own bar. While many consultants out there bill by the hour or by school, Shabri makes a commitment to excellence in every component of the application to ensure it’s a well-integrated, cohesive story of your personal and professional life. Especially for my first few applications, we went through numerous iterations of feedback to ensure the entire application is of a winning standard, which included complete re-writes of some essays. Another standout moment was when I decided to add a school at the last moment. Shabri fully supported me through the process and supported me round-the-clock to help deliver a high-quality application on time.

Second, Shabri’s depth of experience really stands out. Shabri’s has not only coached dozens of students over the years, but she herself is a graduate of a top M7 program with a career in banking and scaling tech companies. She understands both sides of the table, understands what works and doesn’t work, and this allows her to be decisive in direction, which really helped add a lot of structure to my entire process. The entire program is well thought through, and the application order is also well structured to maximize chances. I found the coaching process helpful not only for application’s sake but also to logically think through my short-medium term personal goals, which led to my eventual school selection.

Lastly, one standout area for me was Shabri’s support in interview preparations and in the case of Wharton School’s unique TBD Interview (Team-Based-Interview). This is really a game-changer and the point that separates candidates who are invited to interview from those who convert to offers. Shabri’s personalized coaching in this aspect was a real difference maker for me to go over the line among other similarly competitive applicants.

All in all, I’m glad I worked with Shabri through this journey and would recommend her to anyone who is seriously invested in their MBA studies.

When I first started the MBA application process, I spoke to a lot of folks before ultimately deciding who to work with. One thing that clearly and consistently stood out was how positively people spoke of Shabri. And after going through this journey with her I completely understand why.

Shabri is extremely hands-on, deeply invested and incredibly specific in her feedback. She is the kind of consultant who truly becomes the captain of your ship: a ship that is still fully your own but she helps steer it calmly through stormy waters. She doesn’t let you settle for generic storytelling/surface-level introspection. In fact, she has an almost uncanny ability to sniff out anything inauthentic, templated or ChatGPT-like in your work and constantly pushes you to produce much sharper, more personal and more thoughtful work.

What I seriously appreciated most was her honesty. She will be brutal sometimes, but trust me, in hindsight, I needed that. She tells you exactly what’s working, what isn’t and most importantly, why. And she’ll keep iterating, course-correcting, refining with you till the story reaches a genuinely string place. Even if you’re someone who tends to work last minute like me (highly NOT recommended), she somehow manages to make the absolute best use of the time available and keeps the process moving smoothly.

Coming from a somewhat atypical non-engineer FMCG profile, I initially had my own doubts about how my story would be perceived in such a competitive applicant pool. But Shabri’s conviction and confidence in my profile and story gave me confidence in myself. She took the time to truly, deeply understand who I was, my background, my motivations and what made my journey uniquely mine. Our calls always felt like we’re building this together, and never transactional, honestly. Whether it was essays, strategy, positioning or school selection, it genuinely felt like a collaborative exercise.

Her guidance on strategy was also spot on. I initially planned to apply to a much larger set of schools, but her confidence and clarity helped me prioritize intelligently. She was spot on about my R1 vs R2 approach, which schools made sense for my profile and even how to sequence my applications in a way that would help build momentum and confidence throughout the process.

Ultimately, I was fortunate to receive admits from Wharton, Kellogg and Yale, along with a waitlist at Stanford and I GENUINELY believe Shabri played a huge role in helping me present the strongest and most authentic version of myself and in the process appreciate my own journey much better.

Shabri is one of THE best admission consultants (I have spoken to many). I had a great experience working with her – she had value-additive inputs, helped add structure to my application while preserving my authenticity and was very available for last-moment edits. She helped me secure a GSB interview and convert an HBS admit – this would’ve been very different without her. I highly recommend working with her for b-school apps.

I reached out to Shabri after getting rejected from multiple M7 schools and feeling pretty down about my chances. Over the next six months, we put together a solid plan. She didn’t try to force me into a typical mold, but instead helped me tell my story in a way that felt authentic and unique. She’s not afraid to give honest feedback, but it’s always constructive and pushes you to do better. Ultimately, I got into Wharton with a scholarship, and I couldn’t have done it without her guidance. Highly recommend working with her if you want someone who’s genuinely invested in your success.

Before signing up in Mar’25, I did a proper round of ref checks and spoke to multiple people across different application cycles. The feedback was consistently strong, and not in a vague “she was great” way. People genuinely wanted to talk about the experience in detail. That gave me real confidence going in.

Coming from an IIT + finance (IB, PE) background, I was aware of how competitive and overcrowded my corner of the Indian applicant pool is. What I appreciated most was that Shabri never tried to fit me into a pre-conceived narrative for “the finance guy.” She spent real time understanding my specific story before forming any view on how to position it. What made my path distinct, where I’d taken risks, what I actually cared about. The application was built around that rather than the other way around. It sounds obvious, but it’s rarer than you’d think.

The Singapore to India time zone difference was something I had vaguely worried about. In practice it was a complete non-issue. She was consistently available and came to every interaction prepared. There was never a sense of rationing time or working through a checklist. Multiple iterations, calls when needed, detailed written feedback when that was more useful. The engagement felt genuinely unlimited throughout.

One thing that stands out in hindsight is how she delivered feedback. Honest and direct when something wasn’t working, clear about why, but in a way that kept you motivated rather than deflated. For a process that carries more emotional weight than people like to admit upfront, that balance matters.

Came away with admits to Wharton, Booth, and CBS. Would recommend her without hesitation. For what it’s worth, my college best-friend has signed up with Shabri for this cycle

Before signing up in Mar’25, I did a proper round of ref checks and spoke to multiple people across different application cycles. The feedback was consistently strong, and not in a vague “she was great” way. People genuinely wanted to talk about the experience in detail. That gave me real confidence going in.

Coming from an IIT + finance (IB, PE) background, I was aware of how competitive and overcrowded my corner of the Indian applicant pool is. What I appreciated most was that Shabri never tried to fit me into a pre-conceived narrative for “the finance guy.” She spent real time understanding my specific story before forming any view on how to position it. What made my path distinct, where I’d taken risks, what I actually cared about. The application was built around that rather than the other way around. It sounds obvious, but it’s rarer than you’d think.

The Singapore to India time zone difference was something I had vaguely worried about. In practice it was a complete non-issue. She was consistently available and came to every interaction prepared. There was never a sense of rationing time or working through a checklist. Multiple iterations, calls when needed, detailed written feedback when that was more useful. The engagement felt genuinely unlimited throughout.

One thing that stands out in hindsight is how she delivered feedback. Honest and direct when something wasn’t working, clear about why, but in a way that kept you motivated rather than deflated. For a process that carries more emotional weight than people like to admit upfront, that balance matters.

Came away with admits to Wharton, Booth, and CBS. Would recommend her without hesitation. For what it’s worth, my college best-friend has signed up with Shabri for this cycle

Working with Shabri was the best decision of my MBA admissions process. What stood out immediately was her refreshing candidness—she never sugarcoats feedback, yet she delivers it with a precision that pushes you to elevate your narrative without ever feeling discouraged. In a high-stakes environment where t’s easy to get lost in overconfidence or self-doubt, that balance is invaluable.

Shabri has a sharp eye for identifying what genuinely makes a profile stand out versus what just sounds good on paper. Another big plus is her responsiveness and structured approach. Overall, Shabri is the ultimate advocate and the best friend you can have for this demanding journey.

I would wholeheartedly and unequivocally recommend working with Shabri. What stands out most about her is her exceptional empathy, she is not only a remarkable professional but also an incredible person to work with. From our very first interaction to our last, there was absolutely no shift in her attitude, energy, or commitment; she remained consistently thoughtful, present, and deeply invested throughout.

I came in concerned about being guided through a generic, cookie-cutter process, but what I experienced was the complete opposite. Instead of shaping my story into something templated, she focused on helping me uncover and articulate it authentically. I struggled initially with connecting my experiences and positioning my strengths, but rather than offering ready-made answers, she asked the right questions: ones that pushed me to think more deeply and arrive at clarity myself. That process made me far more confident in my narrative.

On a more personal note, I had a deeply personal and difficult story, one I haven’t shared with many people but I found myself able to fully open up to Shabri. That, more than anything, speaks to the kind of person she is. She creates a space of trust that allows you to be completely honest, and that is truly rare.

Her key strengths:

Turnaround Time: While she officially commits to 48 hours, she often replied much faster, sometimes like a friend responding on WhatsApp, which showed how deeply she was invested. Despite the speed, she always came prepared with detailed edits and thoughtful feedback. She didn’t just suggest ideas; she worked with me on how to communicate them better. With her support, I applied to 7 schools and had great results in four.

Belief & Personal Investment: One thing that stood out was how much she believed in me, often more than I did. While many consultants push “safe” schools, she focused on where I truly wanted to go and pushed me to aim higher. I was genuinely unsure if applying to Booth even made sense, but she pushed me to take that shot, and I got into my dream school with a significant scholarship. Speaking to friends, many felt they worked with “busy” consultants; with Shabri, I always felt she understood the process from the applicant’s POV and was fully present.

Unlimited Iterations & Storytelling: There were no limits, I remember going through version 1, 2, 3, 4 then mixing parts of each until the story felt right. It never felt like she was just editing; it felt like she was peeling the onion, asking questions, and turning the process almost therapeutic. We would spend time debating specific words and emotions to make sure it truly reflected what I felt. She didn’t just leave comments, she would get on calls to walk through full rewrites. What amazed me was her memory: things we discussed in May would come up again in November with full context. Even during a month when I was constantly traveling, she stayed fully engaged throughout.

Holistic Approach & High ROI: She treated every part of the application seriously: not just essays. She pushed me to network (something I wasn’t good at but have now developed), helped me with interview prep, and even spent time on application forms, treating them like essays. Small details like reasons for leaving a job were thoughtfully positioned to strengthen the overall narrative. It truly felt like having a partner in the process. Even if I forget the scholarships, given just the time and effort she invested, she is, in my view, an extremely high-ROI consultant.

Shabri is an excellent storyteller in her own right, and working with her was one of the best decisions I made during my MBA application journey.

The rigor with which she pushes you to bring out your best essays is truly unmatched, she doesn’t let you settle for anything less than your most authentic, compelling self. I came in with a marginally non-traditional background and honestly wasn’t sure how to frame my story. Shabri took it from zero to a narrative I was genuinely proud of. Beyond essays, she was equally thorough with my resume and letters of recommendation, ensuring every piece of the application told a cohesive story.

If you’re looking for a consultant who combines sharp instincts with genuine investment in your success, look no further than Shabri.

I would 100% recommend working with Shabri. Three factors truly distinguish her as an exceptional consultant:

1. Early, Long-Term Investment in Candidates
Shabri began investing in me nearly 1.5 years before my Round 1 application. Even before I formally engaged her, we connected multiple times, and she generously guided me through pivotal career decisions and resume refinement. That early commitment signaled something important. She is in this for the long game, not just the application cycle.

2. Unfiltered, High-Quality Feedback
Shabri kept me grounded throughout the process and left no stone unturned. When I believed my essays were ready, she helped me see they were just the beginning of many thoughtful iterations. She asked probing questions that helped me uncover deeper nuances in my story. Importantly, I did not lose my voice in the process. Instead, she amplified it, giving it sharper direction and rerouting me whenever I drifted.

3. Deep Institutional Knowledge and Pattern Recognition
As a Booth alum, Shabri brings first-hand insight, but what truly differentiates her is her strong knowledge repository built from years of experience. Drawing confidentially on patterns from previous candidates, she provided realistic benchmarks and clarity on areas that are often difficult to navigate alone. This proved especially valuable during interviews, helping me shift from explaining what I did to articulating why it mattered and the impact it created.

I am deeply grateful for her partnership and wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone serious about earning admission to HSW.

Shabri is an exceptional consultant who goes above and beyond. She helped me secure admits to GSB, Wharton, and Kellogg with scholarships by helping me craft a narrative built deeply on my own stories. She is a true realist who offers honest, constructive feedback rather than false hope. What sets Shabri apart is her personal dedication; she is deeply invested in her candidates’ success. She is also incredibly responsive, specifically during the high-pressure weeks leading up to deadlines.

I spoke to virtually every top MBA consultant across the world before making my decision. I am not someone who takes anyone’s word at face value. If I am not convinced, I am not convinced. I wanted someone who could truly understand my story, give it the respect it deserved, and was not afraid to be challenged or debate their views. After all those conversations, I chose Shabri.

What stood out immediately was how deeply she listened. She took the time to understand my entire story before offering a single opinion. When I pushed back, she welcomed it. We debated ideas openly. While we often went with her recommendations, she was never ego-driven or dismissive. She respected my thinking and challenged it thoughtfully, which ultimately strengthened the final outcome.

There is no formula for a perfect MBA application. Your story is unique, and no one knows it better than you. Shabri’s real strength lies in helping you bring structure to that story. She brings method to what initially feels like madness, guiding you to dig deep into your life, clarify what you stand for, and articulate it with honesty and coherence.

I had an extremely demanding work schedule and took on the ambitious task of applying to all my target schools in Round 1. Without her, I genuinely do not think I could have applied to more than one school. She applied just the right amount of pressure to keep me on track, while always remaining supportive.

Despite being in a completely different time zone, she regularly woke up early and stayed up late to ensure I felt fully supported. Her commitment was exceptional. No detail was ever treated as “small.” From major essays to the tiniest application form questions, she was always available, patient, and respectful of the fact that I was new to the process. No question ever felt like a stupid question.

While writing my HBS essays, I hit a serious block. She knew HBS was my dream school and truly believed I belonged there. She helped me push through by spending hours talking things through with me until clarity returned.

As interview invitations started coming in, my schedule became insane, with four interviews back-to-back within a single month. She helped me prepare for every one of them, going well beyond what was promised by Admissions Gateway. She genuinely cares. Once you sign up with her, your dream becomes hers.

The outcome speaks for itself. I was admitted to HBS, Wharton, Columbia, and Booth, with $$$ scholarships everywhere merit-based scholarships were available. HBS had been my dream since I was ten years old, and Shabri was truly the dream weaver.

This title perfectly summarizes what it is like to work with Shabri. Last year, I applied to M7 schools with guidance from a U.S.-based consultant and was admitted to Haas and Kellogg.

So, eventually I decided to reapply. I reached out to Shabri with very little hope. In our very first call, she said something that stayed with me: “You belong at Stanford.” At the time, I had zero belief that Stanford was even remotely possible, but even then she believed in me.

During my consultant discovery process across both application cycles, I spoke with nearly 50 consultants. And I can easily say that Shabri is at least 10x better than the next-best one. So, if she agrees to take you, don’t think about it twice.

So, keeping my fingers crossed I began my journey with Shabri. Over the next five months, Shabri supported me at every step—not just as a consultant, but as a genuine friend. With her, timing was never an issue. She was always there for me, just a phone call or a message away. Even for long 1-hour sessions. What struck me most was how deeply invested she was. While working with her, it felt like it mattered equally to her that I get into my dream school as it did to me.

One thing that sets Shabri apart is her relentless push for excellence. Early in the essay process, I would often share ideas that were “good enough.” But she never was satisfied with those, she always tried to push me harder to get the best out of those essays. I vividly remember invested around ten days on our first Stanford essay draft, one that was already twice as strong as my previous year’s version, only for her to suggest we scrap it entirely in favor of a stronger storyline. Her advise is like gold, so when she tells you something you can rely on it with your eyes closed.

As a reapplicant who had worked with another consultant before, I think I am the perfect person to tell you how much difference Shabri can make to your applications. While waiting for results, I revisited my previous essays and resume and was stunned by the contrast. The difference was night and day. I was literally like, were these essays really written by me. So yes, Shabri has this magical way of bringing out the best in people which is very hard to describe in words.

Unlike last time, with her the journey really was enjoyable and gave me a great sense of content. Even before the result were announced I was content in the fact that I was able to deliver my absolute best and I think that is what counted.

Finally, I applied to HSW and was admitted to both Wharton and Stanford ($146K Scholarship). And I would just say that it wouldn’t have been possible at all without her. I am really grateful and indebted for her guidance, belief, and unwavering support throughout this long and tumultuous journey.

As they rightly say, with the right person even the most difficult journeys can become memorable & meaningful, and this is exactly what happened with me. Through the process, I didn’t just find an incredible consultant; I found a lifelong friend in Shabri.

If Shabri was just an admissions consultant, this review would be quick and easy! But over the last year, she’s become very much a friend. Still, Shabri’s work and results speak for themselves, so here goes.

I first heard about Shabri through the grapevine. A friend who completed the process a year earlier told me she was one of those consultants you shouldn’t second-guess working with (if she agrees to work with you). During our first discovery call, I understood why. She quickly grasped my not-so-straightforward background, identified my strengths, and clearly laid out the areas we’d need to address when presenting my story to adcoms. She also offered guidance on schools that might fit my goals, while fully respecting my reasoning for my targets. By the end of the call, I knew she was the only person I wanted to work with.

Over the year, Shabri invested heart and soul into my applications. As other reviews here also note, she’s a gifted storyteller and a logical thinker. We’d invariably go through eight or nine iterations of essays for each school. While I felt my essays were “good enough” by the fourth or fifth version, Shabri consistently pushed me to refine them further through storytelling choices I wouldn’t have considered on my own. When I compare the final version to the earlier ones, I know her insistence on perfection made all the difference in my applications.

Beyond the work itself, Shabri is one of the most understanding and friendly people I know. She’s never once said “I don’t have time”, she always made space for me and all my questions while also setting a very high bar for quality. She was direct when an essay didn’t hit the mark and honest when she sensed sloppiness, which I’ll (grudgingly) admit, happened at times during bouts of writer’s block. At the same time, she was unfailingly kind, delivering feedback in a manner that kept me motivated and confident through the process.

Her support extended into the interview stage as well. Her feedback on content, tone, and the stories I wanted to share helped me have genuinely positive interview experiences. And when some outcomes didn’t materialize (as can happen with a not-so-conventional story and the competition), she was there to steady me, making sure I didn’t spiral or lose momentum.

I received admits from Kellogg and CBS, which I’d considered reach schools while beginning this journey. I’m skeptical I would have achieved these outcomes without Shabri treating my applications like hers. I’ll always be grateful for her guidance and her effort, and just as importantly, for her friendship.

I was working a 14 hr a day job while I was applying to B-Schools. Shabri was with me every step of the way. I was applying to a lot of schools, and right from the resume building all the way to interview prep advice for each school, Shabri was responsive, diligent and capable. Would highly highly recommend working with her.

I worked with Shabri for my MBA Round 1 applications and got accepted into HBS!! Had a great experience end-to-end that felt more like working with a wise trusted friend than just a consultant. I came into the process later than usual but she was very accommodating of my requests and worked with me to create an application that truly reflected who I was. She’s also super responsive and always ensured she made time to go in depth at each stage of the process.

The interview prep stage was especially helpful to me as she did multiple mocks with me and gave clear constructive feedback. Overall I would highly recommend working with Shabri for anyone looking to tackle the M7 application process.

Shabri was instrumental in helping me craft an application that got me into 3/3 schools I applied to in Round 1. She’s very knowledgeable, structured and will keep your application process smooth sailing.

I was initially skeptical about working with a consultant. However, after talking to a few, Shabri stood out — she was the most genuine and thoughtful by far. I figured even if working with her improved my chances by 10%, it’d be worth the bet.

And honestly, it was so much more than that. Shabri was amazing throughout the whole journey — super responsive, easy to talk to, and always there as a friend, mentor, and thought partner. She really helped me dig into my story and bring it to life. A few of her nudges completely changed how I told my story.

In the end, I got into Stanford, Wharton, Kellogg, Columbia, and INSEAD. Couldn’t recommend Shabri enough if you’re applying to B-school!

I’ll be honest, when I started this whole thing, the MBA + MPA dream felt huge. Too huge, maybe. I’d look at the schools I wanted and think, surely they’re looking for someone else. Someone cleaner, more traditional, more obvious.

My path wasn’t linear. I’d done things I cared deeply about, but they were all over the place. On paper, it looked like three or four different lives smashed together. And I didn’t know how to talk about it without feeling like I was apologizing for it.

Then I met Shabri. And instead of politely nodding at my story, she leaned in. She started pulling at threads I didn’t even know were there. She made me stop skimming over the things I thought didn’t matter and helped me see they were actually the heart of why I was even applying.

Working with her wasn’t just swapping drafts and ticking boxes. It was exhausting at times, but in a good way like we were both in the ring fighting for my story to come out the right way.

The wild part? Somewhere in the middle of it all, I stopped feeling like I was pretending. By the time interviews came, I wasn’t trying to sound like an ideal candidate anymore. I was just me. And that felt enough.

When the admits came, M7s, my dream MPA program, scholarships, I was obviously thrilled. But the bigger thing for me was this quiet pride. Like, yeah, that’s me. All of me!!

If your path doesn’t look like everyone else’s, if you’re aiming for something big and you’re not sure you’ve earned it, Shabri will walk in, sit next to you in the doubt, and not leave until you can see what she’s been seeing all along.

I started working with Shabri because of her outstanding reviews, and she more than exceeded every expectation. She brings a wealth of experience and expertise that is invaluable in making the right strategic calls on your MBA applications — from school selection, to crafting the right story, to providing nuanced, school-specific insights.

Beyond strategy, Shabri adds immense value in building a strong application itself. Whether it’s refining the resume, shaping compelling essays, or preparing thoroughly for interviews, her guidance is consistently thoughtful and effective.

Most importantly, the MBA application process can be overwhelming — and with a demanding work schedule, it certainly was for me. Shabri was there every step of the way: motivating, encouraging, and tailoring her approach to what worked best for me. Whether through calls, detailed offline reviews, or accommodating my schedule, she remained flexible, approachable, and fully invested in my success.

Her support and presence were absolutely critical throughout my MBA journey, and I could not have asked for a better partner in the process.

Before working with Shabri, I had already applied to top U.S. business schools twice and hadn’t had much luck. As an Indian IT engineer from a really competitive applicant pool, I wasn’t even sure if trying a third time made sense. A friend recommended I speak with her, and I’m so glad I did.

Right from the start, what stood out was how proactive and invested she was. I had worked with Personal MBA Coach and another local Indian admissions firm before, and both felt very cookie-cutter. With PMC especially, there was so much inertia around making edits. After two drafts, I was told I wouldn’t get any more time with my consultant and that my essay would just be sent to a storyteller to polish up without even knowing my full story. It felt disconnected and impersonal.

With Shabri, it was completely different. She spent a lot of time getting to know me and helped me see the strategic value in work I had always thought of as just my day-to-day. Because she came from startup land herself, it was effortless to explain my life to her. We connected over the chaos and challenges startups face, and that made the whole process so much smoother. Her storytelling ability is incredible and she helped me craft narratives that actually felt like me, not something manufactured.

She also put in a staggering amount of work. I still have 18 or more drafts per school sitting in my Drive, and I am sure she iterated even more on her end. There were no arbitrary limits, no shortcuts. I would wake up to messages from her with feedback at odd hours, and I know she was working late nights and weekends too. She cares a ton about getting your essays right, and when I spoke to friends who had worked with her, they all said the same thing. There were so many nights when I was drained from 15-hour startup days, ready to give up on yet another essay draft, but I would remind myself how much heart and soul she was putting in, which allowed me to push through.

In the end, I got admits from five out of seven schools, including Harvard Business School, with a full scholarship. Honestly, I wouldn’t have made it without her. And beyond the admits, she introduced me to several people she had helped in earlier rounds. By the time I stepped onto the HBS campus, I already knew more than ten people in my class because of her, many of whom are now some of my closest friends.

Looking back, working with Shabri was one of the best decisions I made. She treats your application like her own, and that makes all the difference.

Different counselors have different attributes. Some are process centric, some are detail oriented and some focus on mentoring. Then there is Shabri, who brought structure, method, empathy and accountability throughout my MBA application journey. She was everything and more that I could have asked for in an MBA counsellor.

In our initial conversations, she listened without judgment, asked thoughtful questions, and never once made me feel like I was “just another client.” I was always treated like a person first and foremost – someone with ambitions and aspirations but conflicting timelines and some very real doubts.

Shabri held me to extremely high standards but in a manner that was constructive and supportive. She nudged me when I needed it, gave me space when I was overwhelmed, and always provided incisive feedback. Her line-by-line comments helped sharpen my writing, as well as deliver greater clarity. Shabri has this rare quality to push you to be more introspective, while also ensuring you don’t spiral into overthinking.

Shabri is a perfectionist, and I truly appreciated her commitment to quality. She expected and enforced the same standards and diligence – whether it was the first school we worked on or the seventh, a core school or one I decided to tackle independently. Even for applications we technically weren’t doing together, she gave me detailed, thoughtful feedback that reflected deep care. There was never a sense of “clocking out” just because a deadline had passed or an application was completed. During instances when I was tired and short on time, she stepped in and helped with editing, redrafting and restructuring, enabling me to move from raw, messy drafts to final.

Interview prep was no different. My early mocks didn’t go well, and I was worried I wasn’t coming across as compelling. She never once made me feel like I was failing. Instead, she helped me reframe my stories, bring more of “me” into the conversations, and most importantly, find a more authentic, conversational tone. By the time of the actual interviews, I felt I wasn’t just ‘performing’, I was showing up as myself.

I remember vividly when the HBS and GSB interview invites came in, just days before my wedding. Shabri rearranged her entire schedule to ensure we could prepare in time, even doing debriefs and feedback sessions while I was navigating wedding ceremonies and family commitments. That level of flexibility, patience, and personal investment went far beyond what I expected from any consultant.

In the end, we converted 6 out of 7 schools: HBS, Wharton, Booth, CBS, Kellogg, Tuck plus a waitlist at Stanford. But what I value the most is not the admissions but the process. Shabri helped me put together the most honest, grounded version of my story. She helped me show up as someone I was proud to be. I genuinely don’t think I could have done this without her.

What truly sets Shabri apart is the energy and soul she puts into your application. If you are looking for a consultant who can uplift the quality of your application, you won’t go wrong with Shabri!

The MBA application process for top business schools is challenging as it requires deep introspection, effective storytelling, and an understanding of what schools are looking for. I was fortunate to get Shabri as my consultant and she was a great thought partner and constructive critic for me during the journey.

Shabri brings a deeply hands-on approach, investing significant time and thought into every part of the process – from story selection to essay edits and interview prep. Her storytelling instincts and writing skills helped me craft authentic and impactful narratives that reflected who I am and addressed what Harvard and Wharton were looking for.

Her insights were invaluable in helping me navigate the change in format for HBS essays from one longer open-ended essay to three shorter theme-based essays. She helped me adapt my approach, identifying the right themes to cover and ensuring the essays showcased multiple dimensions of my background and what I can add to the classroom.

While other consultants might guide you through the MBA application process, Shabri lives it with you! Apart from being an excellent consultant, she’s also a compassionate and kind person.

Be it midnight or 6am, Shabri is always ready to help. I am guilty of calling her at midnight and on weekends to seek urgent advice, but she never complained and made sure i got the support needed.

She gives genuine advice, unbiased opinions and has a very compassionate outlook on the entire process. Moreover, what makes her stand out is her strong focus on authenticity. There are multiple instances where she stressed on my authentic values even more than I did and I believe that’s what made the difference.

I would recommend her 10/10 to any candidate!

Shabri was not just an MBA consultant, she was a true partner in my MBA application process. From the initial profile review in March, to navigating summer waitlists more than 1 year later, she was with me through and through. The school selection she suggested to me was very pragmatic, ensuring I has a safety school in the list. She offered generous and tactical guidance on how to tackle different essays, brainstorming various stories with me before I even wrote them out. She was very hands-on in helping me edit the stories then to make sure they were crisp and impactful. But most importantly, she held me strictly accountable to the committed timeline which was super important to me as I navigated a busy job alongside. Once I had interview invites, she also did plenty of mock interviews with me. Overall I had a wonderful experience and I am so happy I got into the schools I did. We are in touch even now and I continue to recommend her to my peers and undergrad juniors who want to apply for an M7 MBA.

Working with Shabri was one of the most defining aspects of my MBA application journey. Her approach is very personal and “candidate centered”. While many rely on templates, she goes all in on authenticity, bringing the spotlight on your true self, your motivations, and your story. Shabri really took the time to understand me and helped me craft an application that was true to who I am, not who I thought I needed to be. She broke the overwhelming MBA process into focused, manageable stages, and pushed me to think deeply at every step. Her ability to blend structure, strategy and soul is rare and incredibly effective.

What truly sets Shabri apart is the personal investment she makes in each student. I’ve never heard her call us “clients”. She treats each of us like her own, guiding with care, empathy, and clarity. Her approach truly helps in stressful times when you’re managing multiple applications, professional responsibilities and personal life.

For successfully navigating the chaotic MBA application process, I believe you need someone who is (i) immensely competent, (ii) genuinely invested, and (iii) compassionate in their approach. Shabri not only exceeded but also redefined all three parameters. I am certain other have had similar experiences and so will anyone who works with her in future!

Working with Shabri during my MBA journey was truly an incredible experience. Despite starting the process later than most, she never let me feel behind – guiding, pushing, and supporting me at every crucial moment. Shabri took the time to really dig deep and understand my story and helped me shape it into something powerful and authentic. Her patience, motivation, and strategic insight made all the difference for me. I genuinely couldn’t have done this without her—and thanks to her, I’m headed to Columbia Business School.

Thank you Shabri!!

Shabri is a terrific counselor to work with. She’s very hands-on, supportive, and responsive. She always makes sure that if her candidate is going through something, it gets resolved, or at the very least, she responds very quickly, which helps calm us down.

In terms of sheer hard work, she’s extremely hardworking, and it shows in how much effort she puts in with her candidates. For example, I had to redesign my whole resume based on a different format I wanted to explore, and she was very open to it. After reviewing both formats together we took a call on which version to go ahead with. She was patient and put in a lot of effort, rewriting a resume in a new format and then comparing both versions is not a small task.

Regarding areas where Shabri added a lot of value, one was definitely brevity for me. I feel like I struggled a bit with being concise in my story telling and with word count in general. Shabri was really good at making my statements and essays much more to the point, sort of like getting rid of the fat and keeping the meat. Second, she was also helpful in being strategic about my essays. There were times I struggled with the logical flow or ended up piecing together parts from different drafts that didn’t really read cohesively. Shabri stepped in and helped me rethink. Third would be accountability. That’s something she’s very good at. There were times I needed my counselor’s support because I was going through some personal stuff and couldn’t write as clearly as I would’ve liked. That’s when Shabri actually took on a lot of the work and helped make those edits for me. She was super supportive that way.

When it came to interviews, I felt like Shabri really helped me work on my style. Initially, I tended to be very formal, and she helped me relax and be more natural in conversations instead of sounding mechanical. She took multiple rounds of mock interviews with me until she felt I had really improved and was ready for the real thing. I don’t think I would’ve been that smooth in my interviews without those mocks, and I owe that to her.

And one last thing I’d say, since I was waitlisted at Kellogg and CBS, she helped me a lot with sending updates to the AdCom. Even after getting my waitlist results, I worked hard for three months to consistently send updates, and Shabri was always there to review and refine them. My journey was longer than usual compared to candidates who got results in R1, so I ended up taking her support for an extended period, and she never hesitated to extend her full support to me, and I’m incredibly glad to have finally gotten accepted into Kellogg.

Stanford GSB had always been my dream school, and from our very first consultation call, Shabri knew that. But what began as a formal engagement quickly evolved into something far deeper—she became a mentor, coach, and one of my biggest pillars of support during one of the most turbulent periods of my life.
What stood out to me was not just her expertise—it was how she showed up. Shabri has this rare blend of sharp discipline, deep empathy, and unshakeable belief in the people she works with. She didn’t just help me navigate the MBA process; she helped me stay resilient through it. I’m not using the word “mentor” lightly—she truly mentored me but simultaneously acted as a coach, when the time arrived. For example, during the Stanford interview process we prepped every single day, ever since the time I received my interview invite.
When I first reached out to her, I was juggling demanding operator roles across geographies – India and Nigeria – and struggling with whether to even apply given my low test scores. Shabri never pushed for shortcuts. Instead, she asked me to reflect: was I just chasing an MBA, or was GSB the goal? She continually focused on helping me getting ‘the why’ behind me choosing GSB. She honoured my reflections, and helped me take a long-term view—guiding me to pause, reset, and reapply only when I was ready. I took the conscious decision not to apply in the first year and take time to pause and reflect. Without that patient, two-year journey, I don’t think I would have made it.
Unfortunately, 2024 got tougher. There were moments that truly tested me both on personal and professional fronts. On one hand, I was working at distressed organizations, driving scale and fundraising while constantly shifting gears. On the other, I suffered from a number of personal lows including a sudden precarious scenario where I almost lost my father. During this time, Shabri didn’t just step back professionally—she stepped in personally. She told me to pause my applications and take care of myself. She reminded me that it was okay to take a break, that I wasn’t falling behind. That kind of support is rare.
And when I came back, she was right there—just as committed. This is when I felt her persona changed from a mentor to that of a coach. We began my GSB application quite late, around December 20th, and still managed to go through nearly 20 drafts. She pushed me hard to get the best out of me in the application. Her feedback wasn’t surface-level—it was sharp, thoughtful, and always tailored. She helped me find clarity in my story, and the conviction to tell it powerfully. I’ll never forget the final three nights before submission—nearly sleepless, working side by side, refining every last detail of the application. I never felt like just another client—she wanted this for me as much as I did.
Shabri’s style is deeply personal, compassionate, and invested. She doesn’t just guide you through applications, she walks the journey with you. She listens, she challenges, and she nurtures. I wouldn’t have made it this far without her. The application journey in itself like a battlefield, and when you have a mentor and coach like Shabri, you not only discover yourself through the process but you have won half of the battle. If you’re looking for someone who not only helps you put your best foot forward but also helps you find your footing when life throws everything at you—Shabri is that person.

When I started working with Shabri, I was already late to the application cycle. I had spoken to her sometime around April, and I didn’t even have a GMAT score yet. At the time, I thought, I’ll just speak to a few consultants, and once I have my score, I’ll start working with them if things make sense. But when I spoke to Shabri, something clicked. She has this way of holding up a mirror and telling you the hard truths, no sales pitch or sugarcoating. She’s upfront and tells you straight up if something is feasible, or risky and then lets you choose your strategy. Her honesty really stuck with me. With her support, I got into CBS and Haas (with a $40k scholarship) and am waitlisted at Booth.

I think I got my score around May, which was quite late, but she jumped in right away and pushed me to get started on the resume, the essays, everything. I ended up applying to four schools in Round 1. She drove the process meticulously: making timelines, following up and keeping me on track. Again, she was the one following up, not the other way around. I’ve heard from a lot of applicants that they have to chase their consultants for feedback or revised drafts. With Shabri, that was never the case. She says she has a 48-hour turnaround time, but honestly, she usually responds much faster than that. Whenever a deadline was coming up or I had something urgent, she prioritized it and made sure I had what I needed.

When it came to the resume, she helped me highlight impact, showed me how to structure achievements, and made sure we showcased all dimensions: professional accomplishments, soft skills, mentorship, social and extracurricular work, basically everything. From a storytelling perspective, she was a huge help. I come from a quantitative background, and storytelling doesn’t come naturally to me. She helped me craft a coherent narrative, identifying the right examples, understanding what each school values, and tailoring my essays accordingly.

One of the most valuable parts for me was how we crafted the goals. We must’ve gone through several iterations. That clarity of goals made the rest of the application, essays, interviews, and even school fit so much easier. She could immediately tell if something sounded off – whether it was because I was trying to play it safe or going overboard. She also knows exactly what to include in each M7 app based on your stated goals. For instance, if you are targeting product management, she’d guide you to emphasize experiential learning, tech clubs, and so on. That alignment made a big difference.

And there’s one area where I think Shabri really excels: values-based essays. Especially the ones like Columbia’s, where you have to talk about what drives you. She brings structure even to the most personal pieces. And it wasn’t just the essays. She helped with every aspect of the application. Even something as simple as writing a query email to the school, she would help me word it just right, because she understands how sensitive communication can be during this process. Even the application forms didn’t go untouched. She reviewed every piece.

When it came to interviews, I only had one invite in R1, but she still did four mock interviews with me. For someone going into their first MBA interview, that kind of preparation is priceless. When I got to R2, the prep we had done earlier made it easier to pick up speed and gave me the confidence to do well in R2 interviews for Booth, Columbia, and all of them felt like smooth sailing.

She’s not just a consultant. She’s like a realistic, supportive friend who’ll set clear expectations and will be truly empathetic when things don’t work out. I remember getting a rejection from a dream school, and it stung, but she was right there, reminding me stay positive and encouraging me to keep going.

Even though my essays feel heartfelt, they’re very strategically crafted. And that balance between structure and authenticity is also where Shabri truly stands out.

Received Admissions to HBS, Stanford GSB, and Wharton – Thanks to Shabri’s Incredible Support!

When I embarked on the MBA application journey, I was searching for a counselor who could help me craft and communicate the best version of my story.

From our very first conversation, Shabri stood out. She was insightful, frank, and immediately likeable. Regardless of the eventual outcomes, I knew I would enjoy working with her and that she would be genuinely invested in my success as if it were her own.

Working with her was an incredibly enjoyable and meaningful experience. Her approach felt rooted in a sincere desire to help me succeed. I could be vulnerable from Day 0, and open up fully. Our collective success hinged on the trust and openness that Shabri fostered from the very beginning, as well as her relentless push to make me reflect more deeply on my journey.

Given I was applying to five schools in Round 1, I was operating under tight execution timelines. While I remained self-disciplined to deliver on or ahead of schedule, Shabri’s responsiveness and turnaround times stood out—often less than 24 hours! We worked in lockstep, never slowing each other down.

Importantly, Shabri gave me the creative freedom to explore my ideas. She never imposed her views but constantly encouraged me to push the boundaries of imagination, reflection, and articulation. This was vital for me—I wanted to express my life in my own words, in my own voice. This spirit of collaboration formed the foundation of our work across every aspect of the application—goals, résumé, and essays.

Over time, Shabri became much more than a consultant—she became a true confidant. That, I believe, was the secret sauce to our success. She was generous with her time, often accommodating short-notice requests, and was fully committed to my preparation for interviews. For each school, I did 3–4 mock interviews with her, each time receiving sharp, insightful feedback that closely mirrored the real experience.

Finally, MBA applications can be a draining process, and it’s crucial to celebrate small wins—whether it’s a strong first draft or an improved résumé. Shabri consistently elevated my morale by recognizing and celebrating these milestones, which was invaluable for sustaining my confidence and momentum.

Looking back, my experience with Shabri far exceeded expectations and undoubtedly set me up for success. I am deeply grateful for her partnership on this journey.

My experience working with Shabri was nothing short of exceptional. With her guidance, I secured admission to Wharton School and Stanford GSB with a combined $175K scholarship. But more than the outcome, it was the process – her partnership, presence, and precision – that stood out for me in this journey.

From day one, Shabri was incredibly hands-on. I sensed this even before signing up, keeping me sharp throughout the process. She held me accountable to timelines and progress in a way that removed a huge cognitive load – I never had to worry about missing even internal deadlines or being underprepared. She was constantly tracking my progress, nudging me when needed, and creating the space for me to do my best work.

She was also lightning-fast with feedback. While most consultants offer a 2-3 day turnaround, Shabri would often send detailed comments within a day, sometimes even the same day. This cadence was invaluable. It allowed us to work iteratively, adapt quickly to new information and build stronger drafts with shorter feedback cycles.

What really made the difference for me, though, was her emotional intelligence. My application story involved deeply personal elements, and I was always wary of it coming across as a “sob story.” Shabri instinctively understood this. She helped me strike the right balance between vulnerability and strength – opening up authentically without over-leveraging my past. I never felt rushed or transactional in our conversations. She gave me the space to reflect, to articulate my experiences honestly, and then helped me shape those into a compelling, mature narrative.

When some results didn’t go my way in Round 1, Shabri was very supportive. She didn’t just call to discuss next steps, but also checked in about how I was feeling, lifted my spirits, and reminded me of the bigger picture. It never felt like a professional engagement; it felt like I had someone in my corner who genuinely cared.

Tactically, too, her advice was on point. I came in with broad strokes –wanting to work at the intersection of development and market-based approaches, but struggled to express it clearly. Shabri helped me define my goals, shape my narrative, and sharpen every part of my application. There were moments when I thought a draft was final, and she’d come back with a new angle or framing that made perfect sense. Her ability to zoom out and reposition key parts of the story is truly a gift.

She also went above and beyond by tapping into her network to support me. I initially had difficulty reaching out to people at target schools, but she proactively connected me to current students and alumni. That early support helped me overcome my hesitation, and from there, I began reaching out more confidently. Without her initial push, I’d have surely struggled.

Finally, given my tendency to be measured and structured in my communication, Shabri quickly deduced that this could make me sound less energized in interviews. She worked with me through multiple mock interviews to help me come across as more energized and personable. That transformation, I believe, made a real difference in the interview stage.

Working with Shabri didn’t just help me get into my dream schools – it helped me build clarity and confidence in my story that I now carry to my MBA. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner in this journey.

If I had to distill all of my conversations with Shabri into a single phrase, it would be this: Shabri genuinely cares about the people she works with.

What truly sets Shabri apart is her remarkable ability to create a space that fosters deep reflection. From the outset, I was concerned that my professional background lacked a cohesive narrative. However, Shabri skillfully identified a unifying thread across my varied experiences. She even helped me rediscover the significance of long-forgotten life events, which led to powerful moments of clarity—our conversations often felt almost meditative.

Shabri’s expertise particularly stands out when it comes to essay reviews. She is an exceptional editor and communicator, and her feedback consistently helped me express my thoughts with clarity and precision. Under her guidance, I saw a clear improvement in my ability to think critically, structure my ideas, and articulate them effectively in writing.

Having not interviewed in over four years, I found the MBA interview process quite daunting. Shabri brought clarity and confidence to this stage as well. She helped me identify and address blind spots, and her extensive experience ensured I was well-prepared for any type of interview question or scenario.

Beyond her domain expertise, Shabri went above and beyond throughout the process. She was always available to brainstorm ideas and offered detailed, thoughtful feedback – often within 12 hours – even during the busiest months of September and January, while managing multiple drafts in parallel. Her ability to set clear timelines and hold me accountable played a key role in keeping me on track.

Throughout what can often be a stressful journey, Shabri’s calm and empathetic demeanor was a constant source of reassurance. She not only helped me stay focused but also made space for my input, readily adjusting direction when needed. At the same time, she continually encouraged me to push further, resulting in essays that far exceeded my own expectations.

Shabri’s exceptional skill, unwavering support, and genuine dedication make her an outstanding MBA admissions counselor. I cannot recommend working with her highly enough.

I come from a non-target undergrad, so getting into a school like Columbia felt impossible — at least, that’s what I believed. But Shabri changed that.

She’s brutally honest, and that’s exactly what you need when applying to top business schools. From day one, she helped me prepare strategically and well in advance. Her insights were sharp, actionable, and always tailored to my background. She didn’t sugarcoat anything, and thanks to her guidance — especially during interview prep — I walked into the process confident and ready.

If you’re serious about getting in, you want someone like Shabri in your corner. And the best part? Her support doesn’t end once you get your admit — she continues to mentor even after business school. She’s a truly invaluable guide to have on your journey.

I was lucky to find Shabri! I started the application journey late but she was kind enough to take me on as a client last minute. She pushed me to apply to schools and they turned out to be perfect fits. When I wanted to add two schools not in my package, she helped me reuse content without charging extra. She was ALWAYS there – like, midnight edits before deadlines and quick feedback on drafts. She never settled for “good enough” and kept pushing me to dig deeper with my stories. Thanks to her, I got into programs I loved. Ended up with admits to 2 M7s + INSEAD (with $$$)

Shabri is truly the best you can find. She is very pragmatic and meticulous in her approach. After two unsuccessful attempts at getting into an M7 school, Shabri helped me refine every aspect of my application with exceptional depth and care. Thanks to her guidance, I received a full ride at Stern, a $20K scholarship at Tuck, and an admit into Booth. My only regret is not working with her sooner.

Occasionally, you come across a person who feels like a privilege to work with, and who raises your bar for every subsequent interaction you will ever have. As someone who expects a lot out of people, these experiences are often few and far between. However, working with Shabri not only raised this bar but also shattered it.

Coming from a non-traditional, non-feeder background, I got into Kellogg, Columbia (with a scholarship), and an interview with HBS. This journey had numerous highs and lows, and Shabri went above and beyond to support me through these. In weeks when my writer’s block and/ or procrastination inhibited my progress, Shabri’s meticulous planning and encouragement brought me back on track. Whenever my essays/ stories weren’t up to the mark (like my Kellogg’s essay 2), she suggested ways to drastically improve the output. Additionally, her ability to enhance the essays (and application), while keeping it under the word count is honestly a superpower! Closer to application deadlines, when most consultants are thinly stretched and (as evidenced by my friends’ interactions with their consultants) refuse to make any changes/ edits, Shabri sacrificed her sleep to make sure my requests for essay changes were accommodated and my application was in the best possible shape, sometimes a day or two before the deadline.

Shabri’s greatest strength as a consultant (and person) lies in the fact that she genuinely empathizes with her candidates, taking the time to understand strengths and work on shortcomings. As an example, when I struggled (extremely badly) with my interviewing skills, she conducted multiple mocks and gave pointed feedback, enabling me to do well in the interviews that I gave. Without Shabri’s interview prep sessions, I am sure I would not have cleared any interviews!

If anyone’s reading this and weighing their options, I would advise you to blindly onboard Shabri as a consultant. I am confident that you will overachieve in your MBA apps and also have a trusted and cherished advisor for life! All the very best!

I started working with Shabri in early June. Even though I felt I was behind my peers, she never rushed me. Instead of pushing me to speed up my resume, recommendations, or essays, she was patient and flexible. I hadn’t even finalized my school list, and she helped me gain clarity without pressure.
I did not expect to find this in a consultant but Shabri formed a genuine connection. I cannot emphasize enough how important this became. She wasn’t just an admissions consultant—she became a counsellor, a friend, a confidante. I ended up sharing things I’d never told even close friends or family, and that openness shaped a rich, cohesive application story.
Shabri co-owned the entire process with me. She was as invested in my success as I was—if not more. Even simple application questions were treated with utmost care. That attention to detail built trust. Through the journey she helped me transform my self-doubt and vulnerabilities into confidence and strength. She taught me to articulate my own voice and craft a compelling narrative that I know will help me long after the admissions process is over.
She wore multiple hats seamlessly. Drawing from her business experience, admissions expertise, and warm, relatable nature, she helped me prepare answers, refine essays, and excel in interviews.
Her proactive approach was phenomenal. When my resume was lagging, she restructured our timeline and kept me on track. When I was falling behind, she scheduled multiple calls each week to maintain momentum. My friends were working with other admission consultants, and after talking to them, I don’t think anyone was going out of the way to help a candidate.
Another area where she helped a lot was on my formulating my goals. She made me spend a week thinking about my goals. At that point in time, I had slightly mixed feelings on why we were spending so much time on goals, but in hindsight, it was invaluable. This process helped ensure that my essays, interviews, and overall application had a strong foundation. We went into the smallest details—why a certain career path made sense, what specific companies aligned with my ambitions, and what challenges and industry trends I needed to be aware of. And crystallizing my goals involved talking to various people, she helped me connect to some of them, she gave me links to various blog posts that she would read along with me.
After submitting my Harvard application, with just eight days left for Stanford, she checked in twice daily—even during the busiest times. Before my Harvard interview, we did four full mock sessions and she followed up with last-minute calls to fine-tune my responses. For Booth, with only one day to prepare before my Wharton interview, we managed three mock sessions in a single day.
Shabri really stood by me through the entire process. She wasn’t just a consultant; she was someone I could trust and someone who was rooting for me more than even I was. I know I would have this connection with her even long after and would truly recommend her for anyone who is thinking of applying.

I had a great time working with Shabri on my B-School applications. I applied to five schools in R1 and went all in with the first round since work was not too hectic and my GMAT was locked in. I got into CBS and Booth with combined scholarships of $180K.

Going into the process, I was keen to find someone to hear me out and help me decisively approach the uncertain, competitive, and anxiety-inducing process that B-Schools applications are.

I spoke to a range of counselors and friends who applied the previous year. The consistent feedback I got from them was that Shabri was a dedicated, creative, and trustworthy counselor.

I think three things stood out throughout the process – emphasis on your goals, school specificity, and consistency of your application.

I believe a large part of the Business school narrative building hinges on goals and how coherent they are your work, learnings, and what you aspire to do. Shabri patiently sat through this process with me for nearly 3 weeks, iterating on what could set me apart but also fit well with my Early stage and Growth stage VC experience. Her personal experience of working in the startup ecosystem and with other VC candidates made it effortless to pitch different ideas for goals and I was quite happy about what we came up with together. In hindsight, I think this also played a big role in my interviews which also tested goals keenly. Pitching a goal I believed in and was actually believed in made for smooth sailing there.

Secondly, I think when you are staring down a 4-5 month runway to a process it is often easy to get lost first and then rush it. Shabri paced my application process very diligently and made sure that I gave every school the best shot it deserved. She had a keen sense of the core pillars that made each school stand out and was keen to not just copy-paste and modify essays from one school to another.

As much as it feels like the essay has a lot of impact on your application, I do believe that these applications are fairly holistic and everything from your resume, recommendations, goals, and even the little checkboxes play a role. Shabri here was patient in helping me dot the i’s and cross the t’s in the weeks leading up to the R1 deadlines where I’m sure she was bombarded with requests from all her clients. We revised the resume just days before the first deadline because I felt like it now evolved from a few months ago and needed some tweaks.

Shabri is also extremely professional and patient with work schedules and the constant back-forth. Having heard a lot from my peers on finding it hard to find time with counsellors I can definitely say that it won’t be the case with her.

I think working with Shabri personally was also a great learning curve and truly helped me reflect on why I want to pursue the MBA. Her calm personality helps quite a bit in the months that follow the submission and one is anxiously waiting for interview results for instance. Even post my results she checked in on me and gave me her advice on how to go about my scholarship negotiations which was quite helpful.

As a reapplicant, working with Shabri was truly the best decision I made.

The first time I applied, I worked with another India-based consultant. He promised me the world but delivered nothing—not even a single positive outcome. Our interactions felt transactional, and not getting into any school shattered my confidence. I was left wondering if I should even apply again.

A friend recommended Shabri, and from day one, I knew this experience would be different. She was welcoming, approachable, and genuinely invested. It never felt like I was talking to someone professionally—it was like talking to a friend.

Throughout the journey, I had highs and plenty of lows, but Shabri was always there, making time for me whenever I reached out. Her strong emotional intelligence allowed me to open up and share my most personal experiences, which is crucial for MBA applications.
My previous consultant never even gave me the space to think about my own stories—he simply dictated what I should write. In contrast, Shabri provided a safe space to reflect, refine, and articulate my narrative authentically.

What truly sets Shabri apart is her presence and attention to detail. She always made me feel like I had her undivided attention. Whether we were on a call, or she was reviewing my essays, it never felt rushed—she was fully invested in the quality of my application.

Even in the final days, when most consultants would just push to wrap things up, Shabri remained focused on excellence. She never cut corners. She meticulously reviewed every last detail, even in the application form, ensuring that nothing was overlooked. Her commitment to quality was unwavering.

I also never felt like I was burdening her with my questions, no matter how small. She was always open, responsive, and eager to help, making the entire process smoother and far less overwhelming.

This MBA journey is daunting, and success isn’t always guaranteed. But working with Shabri made it an enriching and fulfilling experience. Through this process, I’ve learned so much about myself—things I might never have realized without her guidance.

Regardless of whether I choose to pursue my MBA at Tuck this year, I consider this experience a massive personal win. The last eight months with Shabri have been transformative, and the relationship we’ve built is something I’ll always cherish.

Beyond applications, this journey has been about self-reflection, understanding my aspirations, and appreciating how far I’ve come. For that, I’ll always be grateful to Shabri.

Working with Shabri made all the difference in my application journey. Her honesty, methodical guidance and genuine support throughout the process were essential in helping me create a strong application, perform well in interviews and gain an admit to Wharton.

She was extremely accommodating throughout the process. I started the application journey with her almost two years ago. well before I was ready. She was supportive from start to end – offering valuable advice after each exam attempt and motivating me. Even when it became clear that I couldn’t apply during one cycle, we reconvened the following year and reworked the entire plan together.

Shabri always pushed me to dig deeper and encouraged me to develop multiple stories for each question, helping me refine my responses to choose the best one. Even when I felt exhausted, she encouraged me to think outside the box and come up with even more ideas. She would explain why something might not be the right fit for the application and steered me toward stronger options. Even as the deadline approached, Shabri managed to find time to guide me, no matter how busy she was, ensuring I didn’t fall behind. This holistic support was essential in keeping me on track.

Another important aspect of working with Shabri was the collaborative nature of our work. Rather than simply reviewing drafts, for my HBS application, for example, we took it step-by-step, even breaking down each paragraph to make sure everything was clear and impactful, helping me craft my best possible application. Other times she would edit my work over call to help me think through every word and idea. That made a huge difference in improving the quality of my work.

Shabri brought method to the madness and guided me patiently through my interview prep. Her structured approach helped me avoid unnecessary stress and anxiety, ultimately making me feel much more prepared.

Working with Shabri made all the difference in my application journey. Her honesty, methodical guidance and genuine support throughout the process were essential in helping me create a strong application, perform well in interviews and gain an admit to Wharton.

She was extremely accommodating throughout the process. I started the application journey with her almost two years ago. well before I was ready. She was supportive from start to end – offering valuable advice after each exam attempt and motivating me. Even when it became clear that I couldn’t apply during one cycle, we reconvened the following year and reworked the entire plan together.

Shabri always pushed me to dig deeper and encouraged me to develop multiple stories for each question, helping me refine my responses to choose the best one. Even when I felt exhausted, she encouraged me to think outside the box and come up with even more ideas. She would explain why something might not be the right fit for the application and steered me toward stronger options. Even as the deadline approached, Shabri managed to find time to guide me, no matter how busy she was, ensuring I didn’t fall behind. This holistic support was essential in keeping me on track.

Another important aspect of working with Shabri was the collaborative nature of our work. Rather than simply reviewing drafts, for my HBS application, for example, we took it step-by-step, even breaking down each paragraph to make sure everything was clear and impactful, helping me craft my best possible application. Other times she would edit my work over call to help me think through every word and idea. That made a huge difference in improving the quality of my work.

Shabri brought method to the madness and guided me patiently through my interview prep. Her structured approach helped me avoid unnecessary stress and anxiety, ultimately making me feel much more prepared.

As someone who was applying to business school with less than 3 years of experience, I was often told top 5 US b-schools are out of reach. However, Shabri not only helped me craft my applications but also helped me believe in my story. She became a mentor who pushed me to bring out the best in all aspects of my application, be it resume, essays, or interviews. If you are looking for a consultant who is no BS, genuinely wants the best for you, and is willing to partner with you to go the extra mile then Shabri is an absolute no-brainer.

As a Deferred MBA applicant and a college senior, I had little
understanding of how MBA programs worked or what the application process entailed. Unlike regular MBA applicants with years of work experience and established stories, I had to craft my narrative from my college experiences. Shabri made this entire process incredibly smooth and approachable for me, winning me Deferred MBA admits to Kellogg and Columbia.

I joined Admissions Gateway after taking my GMAT, however, everything that followed—from building my resume to defining my long-term goals—was a challenge. Without full-time work experience, it was difficult to articulate my career aspirations and connect them to my personal story. Shabri played a crucial role in helping me navigate this.

She worked closely with me to brainstorm and refine my long-term goals, pushing me to speak with industry professionals and explore different career paths. After weeks of discussion and research, I
landed on Agritech as my focus. She encouraged me to analyze how my past experiences aligned with this field and how I could make a meaningful impact. This exercise gave me clarity on my professional direction beyond the application process.

Writing was another major hurdle. I struggled with expressing emotions and creating compelling essays. Shabri’s approach of breaking down essays into structured paragraphs, helping me add
specificity, and guiding me to reflect on key experiences really transformed my writing. She constantly reminded me to think about how each incident shaped my long-term journey, which helped
me present my story authentically.

The tight application timeline was another challenge. I started working with Shabri in February, with April deadlines. Despite the short window, she accommodated my schedule seamlessly. She was
always a text or call away, and we had daily meetings to stay on track. Her dedication ensured that we refined every aspect of my application: resume, essays, and interview prep without
compromising quality.

When it came to interviews, I was nervous and was sounding like I had learnt my answers. Shabri helped me refine my delivery. She ensured that my responses sounded natural and engaging rather
than memorized. Through multiple mock interviews, she guided me on structuring answers effectively while maintaining spontaneity.

Looking back, I can confidently say that Shabri’s mentorship was instrumental in my success. She provided clarity, structure, and unwavering support at every stage, helping me present the best version of myself. Beyond the MBA applications, she helped me shape a vision for my future—one that I continue to explore today.

There could be great consultants out there, but if they are not a vibe match with you, then it might not get you the best outcome, So, I was looking for a consultant I could connect with, and from my first call with Shabri, I knew we’d get along. A key part of my story was applying as an LGBTQ candidate. I felt that Shabri was the one person I could share my personal story with. Shabri’s empathy made me feel safe enough to open up. She sensed there was more to my story before I even told her and took the time to listen, not as a consultant, but as a friend. She just wanted to get to know me better as a person during that call. I’m not out to everyone, but I felt incredibly comfortable being open with her.

While my experience is solid, there were many ways it could have been presented. Shabri helped me showcase it in the best way possible, and that made a huge difference in my outcomes and admission to Kellogg. The biggest quality Shabri has is her experience. She knows exactly how to help you maximize your potential and doesn’t stop pushing you to reach that point. The first task we tackled was my resume, and honestly, the first version I submitted was pretty bad. Shabri immediately pointed out that it needed work but reassured me not to worry. After 5-6 iterations, we crafted a strong version. What stood out to me was Shabri’s dedication—she doesn’t settle. Even though a couple of earlier drafts would have worked, she kept pushing me to improve. Her commitment paid off; when I showed the final resume to others, they called it one of the best they’d ever seen. Period. That dedication made all the difference to my ultimate outcomes and admission to Kellogg.

The big challenge came with defining my goals and crafting my first essay. Shabri made me go through so many iterations. At times, I felt demotivated, wondering if I could do this. But Shabri never got tired of pushing me. And one could argue that, okay, that’s her job. I think she really does not come from a place of, oh, it’s my job! She just really is very personally invested and knows that if there is potential to make it an 11/10 outcome, she does push you to become 11/10. My story was clear, focused on making an impact in the education sector in India, but the real work was in how to tell that story. We went through countless iterations, but by the end, the final version was miles ahead of where we started. Looking back, I can see the huge difference, and I’m grateful for her persistence in pushing me to get it just right.

Our worldviews aligned, making it easy to connect. One of the most valuable aspects of working with Shabri was her approach to my LGBTQ story. While it was a compelling part of my narrative, she knew exactly where to include it and when not to overemphasize it. I was tempted to mention it everywhere, but Shabri wisely advised against it, pointing out when it felt forced. She balanced my personal story with the broader themes of my application. For example, in one essay, I initially focused a lot on how being queer made me committed to authenticity. Shabri helped me refine it by shortening that section and expanding on how my commitment to authenticity applied to other areas of my life. And that just took my essay to another level. I just read that essay, and it’s so nice. And I just love that part of it.

Shabri helped me broaden my perspective—being queer made me value authenticity, but she taught me that authenticity extends far beyond that. I learned so much from her approach.

I met Shabri in person during a work trip to Singapore, and we had tea together. It was amazing to finally connect with the person behind the screen, and I now consider her a friend.
In the end, I was looking for a consultant I could truly vibe with, and I was lucky to find that with Shabri. Our worldviews aligned, and she knew how to recognize and nurture my potential, pushing me to be my best, even through multiple iterations. She was also incredibly mindful of my personal story, empathetic yet careful not to overemphasize it. She truly helped me present my narrative in the most authentic and impactful way.

I had a fantastic time working with Shabri. As a re-applicant to top programs, she helped me reframe my original applications and added an extra layer of polish and clarity that they lacked previously. She was empathetic, took the time to understand my goals and motivations deeply, was always available, and went above and beyond to turn materials around on short timelines. Her background in journalism, advising and running businesses made her an invaluable editor and mentor through the application process and beyond. Above all, she doesn’t settle for anything less than excellence in application materials. I’d highly recommend working with her.

I assessed and interviewed over 20 admission consultants before I chose to work with Shabri. She was perhaps single handedly the biggest reason I got into my dream school (Columbia Business School) and a few others as well. Shabri never made false promises, and was quick to point out my weaknesses but was quicker to find solutions to overcome them. She was also instrumental in the “soul searching” component that helped me string my story together into very impactful essays. She will deliver every single service stated in her bio to the best of her (and frankly any other admission consultant’s) abilities.

Shabri is a stellar professional and will be as invested in your outcome as you are, well after she’s received your money, because that’s simply the kind of person she is. She wouldn’t put a draft to rest until she was truly satisfied with it, and she’d always respond within 24 hours with genuinely insightful feedback that pushed me to do better than I thought I could. It’s been 3 years since I received my admissions to my top choices and Shabri still remains a close friend and mentor to me.

I’d bet on her a 1000 times over, with my eyes wide shut.

Okay where do I start.

Perhaps the best place to start is that I am often sitting at HBS, looking at the Charles and pinching myself. HBS was a dream, and yes they do come true. However for me, they wouldn’t have if not for Shabri.

I am seldom short of words, but for Shabri – I am. And for the way she handled me and my application process was nothing short of perfect. I am not an easy person to work with, and had a lot of highs and lows throughout the process but Shabri was a rock I could rely on. Not only was she absolutely impeccable in strategizing my application, providing feedback and helping me ace interviews, but she was also the kind of person I needed in your corner during such a stressful and high stakes time.

I am forever grateful to you Shabri, and for those of you looking, choosing and deciding – look no further!

In early 2024, I reached out to a few top MBA admissions consultants, and Shabri really stood out. What made her stand out was her ability to be realistic about what was achievable while still encouraging me to aim higher. This was especially important to me because I’m naturally an optimistic person, and having someone who supported and believed in my ambitious goals was truly motivating.

Shabri has a really unique and flexible approach which meant she tailored her support to my specific needs. For example, I was having a hard time articulating my goals. I had a general idea of what I wanted to express but was struggling to communicate it. Shabri suggested that I come up with a startup idea and pitch it to her during a call. That exercise helped me have a breakthrough in clarifying my goals.

What truly set Shabri apart, however, was her support throughout the entire writing process. I struggle with putting my thoughts on paper, and given that MBA applications demand creativity, detail, and specificity require, I didn’t even know where to begin. But Shabri created skeleton essays and provided me with plenty of starting points which helped me write first version. Then she broke down areas of improvement and edited the content which helped me eventually submit beautifully written essays.

Her inputs were truly phenomenal. For the contributions essays I was struggling with bringing in insights that were unique to my experiences. She guided me to the right resources and helped me understand what to pick and how to articulate it. This helped me not only write impactful contributions but also find a great deal of opportunities I’d like to engage in once I’ll be at the school.

Interview preparation was particularly challenging for me on a personal level as the business school interview is quite different from a job interview. I also felt the added pressure of it being my only shot. Shabri really helped me pick the right stories, structure my answers and get over my nerves. There were times when I used to forget my chain of thought and blank out, but the multiple mock interviews she conducted helped me perform well during my final interview.

Finally, Shabri really prioritizes transparency and honesty. Right after the round 1 deadline, I got the opportunity to work abroad, and she helped me craft an update for Kellogg. I believe this worked in my favor because I did not have any international exposure until then, and it added a new dimension to my application. The perspective and nuance she brings to the application process were essential to securing my admit to Kellogg MMM.

I had an absolutely amazing time working with Shabri. She’s not just an incredible consultant—A1 at her job—but also a truly wonderful human with exceptional empathy and EQ.

From day one, she was deeply invested in my journey to the point where it felt like she was applying alongside me. She checked in on me constantly and made sure I stayed ahead of deadlines. Her attention to detail is unmatched—she didn’t just edit; she listened, really listened, to my stories, spending hours refining them. No matter how many drafts it took, she never settled for anything less than perfect.

But what truly set her apart was how much she believed in me—even more than I did at times. And that, I think, is the most important quality in a consultant. Her trust in my story and my potential gave me the confidence to put my best foot forward.

The B-school application process can be exhausting, but having a consultant (and friend) like Shabri made it feel so much easier. I couldn’t be more grateful for her unwavering support, patience, and belief in me.

With her help, I got into both Harvard and Wharton—the schools I had applied to.

Shabri worked really hard to figure out my story and carve out my essays to showcase my true personality and profile. I ended up going to my top school – I am super grateful to her for all her help. I loved her approach and would highly recommend working with her, especially for top B-schools.