Part time Kellogg/GSB.....?

GMAT in March · Posted: Mon May 12, 2008 8:23 pm Post subject: Part time Kellogg/GSB.....?

Admission expert,

Need your help to evaluate my profile and guide me through the application process.

1. Undergrad GPA - 3.2 Grad GPA - 3.7 Both engineering degrees
2. 8 yrs of experience in sourcing with increasing responsibilities. last 2.5 yrs as Senior program manager in strategic sourcing.
3. APICS CPIM certified
4. 5/8 yrs of experience with 2 fortune 40 companies.
5. GMAT - 640 78% (Q 43 70% & V 34 70%)
6. I am non-native English speaker.

Target schools - Chicago GSB and Northwestern Kellogg; Both part time programs for winter quarter.

What are my chances of getting into any/both these schools? I do not really want to take my GMAT again unless absolutely necessary. Is there anything else I can do to beef up my profile?

Thanks,
Josh

VP_MBA_Guru · Posted: Tue May 13, 2008 10:06 am Post subject:

Hi GMAT,

Thanks for your post. Regarding your profile, your stats sound good, but as you know there are many factors that influence your candidacy (essays, LORs, interview), so it is difficult to gauge how competitive you would be.

That said, since you are applying for PT programs that start in the winter, you dont have too much time to make a significant impact on your application, other than the GMAT score. I would consider retaking the GMAT if you think you can score 40-50 points higher.

Also you could try to get some volunteer experience to help your candidacy, but again, since you dont have too much time (before you start working on your application), it might not help as much.

One factor you can control is interaction with the school. Make sure you network with students/AdCom, visit campus/classes and let them know you are very interested in the program. Also, try to submit your application as soon as possible (earlier rounds).

Good luck!

GMAT in March · Posted: Tue May 13, 2008 10:53 am Post subject:

Nikhil,

Thanks for the advice. Like you said, I do not have much time until the application deadlines. I realize that my profile is not going to change much. yes, one thing I can do is create more interaction with current students and admission committee. I will rather focus on that. Is it really going to make significant differnece if my GMAT goes up by 40-50 pts? Or should I rather spend my time on essays?

Thanks,
Josh

VP_MBA_Guru · Posted: Tue May 13, 2008 11:59 am Post subject:

Hi Josh,
Unfortunately, I want to say you should do both! Wink

Seriously though - its a tough question. The average PT GMAT score for both schools is around 690. Yes, you want to be close to the range, but do you want to put in the time and effort towards retaking the test (esp since the GMAT is only one part of your application).

I guess that is a decision you need to make - and very dependent on if you think you can improve your score... or even have time (and the energy) to do so.

Good luck!

NP