Beat The GMAT a GMAT & MBA community

Hi,

I am 32 right now and I did take the GMAT in March, but I canceled my score as the center was very noisy and I couldn't concentrate. I lost a lot of time re-reading questions.

I took the GMAT previously, but it was more than 5 years ago so that score is not longer valid and I need to retake.

I have worked in the financial industry in NYC for a while and completed my undergrad at NYU Stern with a good GPA.

I was involved with the community as an undergrad and my industry as a professional. I ran a couple of events for NYSSA (New York Socity of Security Analysts).

I have had trouble in the financial industry as I graduated during an incredibly poor time in the market. I had been accepted to Owen at Vanderbilt and a few other schools in 2006, but didn't attend as I was scared of another economic meltdown and slim job opportunities. I saved myself a lot of grief as I would have graduated in 2008 when Bear Stearns and Lehman fell apart.

I am thinking of MBA programs again as the finance industry in NYC is not cooperating. I had an 8 month contract position and now I am unemployed again. I have 7 years of continuous experience after my NYU graduation (in a ad-hoc research and projects group and in market risk control) with only 2 firms, but after 2008 there was lots of volatility. I worked as a commodity broker for a period of time where I convinced people to trade in volatile commodity options (regulated by NFA). I had a great rate of return and enjoyed earning money for people. I would like to continue that, but I don't want to work on a commission as a broker. Therefore, I could see myself as a portfolio manager on a salary. Unfortunately, it is hard to make the transition in this job market as most people are pigeon-holed into their current line of work.

I also have a tremendous interest in the video game industry and could see myself as a finance manager for a gaming/tech company. I think that finance jobs in non-banking firms rely more on accounting knowledge; therefore, I have looked at dual degrees for MBA and Master's of Accounting. Given my interests, I think an MBA program on the West Coast would best suit my interest in the gaming industry.

I have also thought about the online program at UNC as I would get the same degree as those who go to the physical location and the university has a great reputation. My goal is to switch careers, would an online MBA facilitate a switch? I think it is better for people looking for a promotion.

Does anyone have any advice??