Ask an MBA Admissions Consultant

Hi, can you please evaluate my profile?

age: 21
BA in biology at University of Missouri - Kansas City obtained in three years. GPA: 3.26
GMAT: studying right now, hopefully 650+
extracurricular activities: President of the Japanese student association at UMKC
Officer of the Pre-Med society at UMKC
Volunteer at hospital for one year

I'm female and asian-american (born and raised in japan).

I can fluently speak japanese and english and I've lived in Japan, US, Scotland and Italy.

I have part time work experience at a Steak and Shake store, where I was promoted to Assistant Manager along the way.

No other work experience so far. I'm not working right now, 'cause I've been living in Italy for the last two months as I'm getting married to an italian man. I'm probably taking 6 months/1 year off before looking for a job.

So, what do you think I should do? If I take one year off, do you think it could be harmful for my mba application? Is my GPA too low? (I got two Ds in my last semester). Do I have a good shot at a good MBA program if I score 650+?

thanks!!

You definitely need more work experience to be competitive for a top MBA program. Work experience is a key component for many programs because it allows you to learn and contribute more effectively in class. Your overall GPA is fine however you will definitely need to explain the two D's and if there were extenuating circumstances. Finally, I recommend aiming for a 700 on you GMAT.

Best of luck!

Hi and thanks for the answer.
A couple of questions:

1. With 700 on the gmat and a couple of years of work experience could I aim at a top 30 program? and what about a top 15?
2. I got 2 Ds because I graduated in three years instead of four and I left 2 of the hardest exams on my last semester. Furthermore, I was Supplemental Instruction teacher on the previous semester and leader of a group in my last semester, which really caused stress and troubles.
last but not least, I travelled twice to Italy during classes for arranging my wedding, which was definitely a distraction... Do you think these things can be explained?

thanks!

I believe you will be competitive for a top tier program with more work exp and a 700+ GMAT. The D's can be explained in your optional essay. Be sure to highlight what you learned from the experience (ie. time management, conflict resolution, etc.)