CANDIDATE: Suhaani Jain, Indian Citizen
CURRICULUM: IBDP
SCHOOL: Aditya Birla World Academy, Mumbai
SUBJECTS: HL: Economics, Global Politics, Biology | SL: Math AA, English Language & Literature, Spanish B
GRADES: IB Predicted: 40/42
INTERESTED MAJOR: Politics and International Relations
Suhaani came to us with a strong interest in economics and an equally strong track record in debate, MUN, and policy. However, her performance in maths made economics less competitive for admission to highly selective universities. We therefore repositioned her towards politics and international relations, where her profile was both authentic and distinctive. The shift was built on Suhaani’s existing strengths in debate, MUN chairing, and policy advocacy rather than creating a new narrative. Recognising that she was not just a participant but a builder, we helped formalise and scale the NextGen Debaters Championship through institutional partnerships while supporting her leadership at NOSFAM. We also refined her personal narrative by grounding her voice in specific, concrete details, culminating in a memorable essay centred on her encyclopaedic knowledge of women’s artistic gymnastics
GRADE 9
GRADE 10
GRADE 11 & 12
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.
