The Red Pen is delighted to present an exclusive meet-and-greet with Professor Joel Simon, a Stanford faculty member, specialising in STEM and Design Thinking. This event offers parents and students a rare chance to interact directly with him, acquire in-depth knowledge in their respective subjects, receive valuable mentorship guidance, and explore numerous other tips for a successful admissions journey.
Discover what it’s like to study at Stanford University, including the academic rigour, cutting-edge research opportunities, diverse culture and more.
Learn how to choose the right subjects and get expert advice on showcasing your passion and proficiency.
Discover the vital role of mentorship in preparing for undergraduate admissions and the benefits of personalised advice, insider insights, and access to valuable resources.

CANDIDATE:
AN
GRE/GMAT:
Did not take
GPA:
3.43/4.0 (as per her WES evaluation)
Qualification:
BA Economics
Work Experience:
Less than six months
Admitted to:
NYU
AN aimed for an MS in Marketing in the US and the UK. The applicant was prompt in balancing the WES evaluation and other application components. However, while brainstorming the SOP we encountered a challenge. The applicant lacked sufficient work experience, which is gained through internships. They only had a two-month marketing internship in a finance company. However, as an undergraduate, the applicant was editor-in-chief of the college magazine, co-authored academic papers and hosted an Instagram series on mental health, diversity, and the LGBTQ+ community.
While storyboarding, we strategically guided the applicant to match their academic endeavours with their desire to become an inclusive impact marketer. As an editor, writer and social media content creator for diversity and inclusivity, AN developed excellent communication skills, an understanding of different people, and concise and compelling storytelling abilities. We advised the applicant to position themself as a collaborative marketing person who understood diverse needs, has problem-solving skills and was familiar with contemporary communication platforms.
AN exemplifies how storyboarding with expert counsellors can help applicants identify experiences that align with their goals. Our strategic advice proved valuable, and the applicant received offers from programmes of their choice. It reinforced the fact that transferable skills, like problem-solving, communication, collaboration and technical proficiency, are greatly valued and can compensate for work experience.