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Hi, I'm new to the forum. In regards to GMAT, I only got a 690. (50 Q, 33 V). For programs, I'm aiming for HBS, Wharton, MIT, and Columbia. With my current situation is this a realistic goal?

I'm Chinese American and worked in banking. Unfortuanetly, I became a victim of the crunch in December and since have been out of work. Undergrad GPA is 3.6/4.0 at UPENN, but unfortuanetly, I had a very niche major (East Asian Studies). Work experience wise, I worked at a major UK Bank since graduation with rotations in UK (all of 2008), HK (3 months), Milan (6 months) and New York (1 year).

Hi C,
Thanks for your post. Its very hard to assess your candidacy based on your GMAT, GPA and work experience, as so much of your evaluation is based on other aspects of your application, including your essays, LORs, interview, ECs, etc.

That said, unfortunately you are in one of the most competitive application pools - Finance/Banking backgrounds. So it will be important for you to differentiate yourself from other applicants with similar backgrounds. I think your great international experience will definitely help set you apart.

Regarding your GMAT score, it is a slightly lower than average for the schools you mentioned before, however I believe you strong GPA from UPenn will help you.

Please let us know if you have any other questions.

Regards,

N