Beat The GMAT a GMAT & MBA community

Dear Esteemed Consultants,

Please can someone do a honest evaluation of my situation and advise if I stand any chance at all getting into top MBA programs in US like HBS, MIT, Stanford or Columbia…. Or should I look elsewhere? please read patiently.

I am a Nigerian, from a very poor background, but I grew up with a passion to acquire knowledge, become a change agent in my society, and influence my fellow citizens - especially the youths - unto national transformation. I wanted to study to doctorate degree level.

Shortly, after my secondary school, I lost my father, and coupled with the existing family hardship, I had to help my mum with her petty trading for about 4 years before gaining admission to do a 2 years Ordinary National Diploma course in Petroleum Marketing and Business Studies. Despite the setback and financial issues, coupled with the fact that sometimes I leave school to ‘struggle’ for more cash, I made the best GPA (3.9/4.0) and received best student award.

Thereafter, I had to secure a little job to help mum and brother. It was until 5 years later, I was able to save up to secure another admission to do Bachelor degree in Management. Presently, I am working in Human Resources and schooling at the same time (for the B.Sc Management degree) to graduate this year 2012; and I am still able to maintain Second Class upper division in my grade.

I also run a personal business (registered in Nigeria) where I lead a team of 6 people; and gleaning from my life’s story, I organize motivational and inspirational talks for youths in churches and schools. I have written more than 6 articles published in company magazines.

But this is my problem: I am now 34 years old - due to all the setbacks - but still very determined to satisfy my quest for knowledge, and I want an MBA from the US. I intend to embark on a non-profit venture in Nigeria - after the MBA - to contribute to the Transformational Agenda of my government. Also after the MBA, I am very sure of a better position at my work place - I am regarded one of the best staff in the dept (though a Junior staff for lacking a B.Sc).

I am studying for GMAT with Master GMAT online course, but my friends are all discouraging me to stop; they say I’m too old for the program now. I feel frustrated; it was not really my fault. The circumstances were beyond my control. Please can someone say something to me in this regard?

Thank you all