Confused about where to apply...

applicant_2009 · Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2008 10:02 am Post subject: Confused about where to apply...

I am having a very difficult time deciding on how to round out my selection of schools to apply to. About me, I'm 27, graduated with a 2.99 GPA from a small (but reputable) liberal arts college with a degree in Computer Science. My grades started abysmally, but trended way up to a 3.7 in my final semester. Also, my curriculum was packed with tough quant classes throughout. I also have a Master's in Computer Science from a reputable engineering school with a 3.5 GPA. I have close to three years experience as a Software Engineer for a large telecommunications company. I took the GMAT this year and scored a 750 (89%Q, 95%V). I am applying to b-school with an eye to entrepreneurship or VC. Additionally, I have done some volunteer work and participated in some interesting extra-curricular activities.

My major concern is that my UGPA is going to keep me out of pretty much any top 10 school. Right now I am looking at Darden, Ross, and Anderson, but I think I may be aiming too high, and am not sure how to round out the selection. I would be interested to know if you have any suggestions.

Thanks in advance!

Lisa Anderson · Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2008 6:14 am Post subject:

Dear applicant_2009,

I don't think your UG GPA will hurt you much as you have upward progression towards the end of your studies and have a strong GPA from your masters program. Since the schools you are targeting are highly competitive, I would suggest identifying some schools outside the top 10 that are also strong in entrepreneurship. I think you will be surprised how many good options you have in the top 40--some might even offer you scholarship funds.

Good luck,
Lisa