Before MBA Protocol

I worked in corporate development and I wanted to join a top MBA program that has a strong investment banking pipeline.

Why MBA, why now

I am committed to building a career in investment banking. I tried recruiting through existing networks, which did not yield results, especially in Toronto.

The work we did together

Working with MBA Protocol changed far more than just my applications, it transformed the way I approached the entire MBA process.

The biggest shift was in my mindset. I went from viewing the application as a collection of essays, resumes, and interviews to understanding it as an opportunity to reflect on my journey, define my goals, and articulate the impact I want to create in the future.

MBA Protocol also helped me develop a much stronger sense of storytelling. Rather than listing accomplishments, I learned how to connect the experiences that shaped me, from my upbringing in Sri Lanka to my professional experiences across different backgrounds and geographies and present them in a way that was authentic, compelling, and cohesive.

Perhaps the most noticeable change was my interview confidence. Through preparation and feedback, I became more comfortable speaking about my experiences, career goals, and personal story

Overall, MBA Protocol helped me move from uncertainty to clarity, from self-doubt to confidence, and from simply applying to business school to truly understanding and communicating my story.

The Coach Advantage

Heather played an instrumental role in both my growth and success throughout the MBA application process.

I joined the program later than most applicants and was already behind on several key deadlines. Despite this, Heather went above and beyond to ensure I had the support I needed, even dedicating additional time during the Christmas holidays to help me refine my applications. Her commitment and generosity with her time made a tremendous difference during what could have otherwise been an overwhelming process.

What made Heather truly exceptional was her ability to see connections in my story that I had never recognized myself. She helped me weave together experiences from different chapters of my life and career into a cohesive narrative that felt authentic and compelling. Through her guidance, I gained a much deeper understanding of my own journey and the impact I wanted to create in the future.

Perhaps most importantly, Heather believed in me before I fully believed in myself. Coming from a non-traditional background and with GRE scores that were below the average at many of my target schools, I often questioned whether admission to a top MBA program was realistic. Heather consistently challenged those doubts, helping me recognize the strengths and uniqueness of my experiences. Her confidence in my potential gave me the confidence to pursue ambitious goals and present my story with conviction.

Beyond being an outstanding admissions coach, Heather was a trusted mentor who helped me see possibilities for myself that I had not previously imagined. I am incredibly grateful for her guidance, encouragement, and unwavering belief in what I could achieve.

MBA Admission Results

I applied to 8 schools and got accepted 2 ( Cornell 40k scholarship per year, Georgetown 30k per year scholarship) and waitlisted at four.