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Profile Evaluation - Low GPA, Mediocre GMAT, Solid Work Exp

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lightsped
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Topic: Profile Evaluation - Low GPA, Mediocre GMAT, Solid Work Exp
PostTue Sep 29, 2009 8:30 pm
Hello all,

I'm new to this site and just starting to think about getting an MBA. I want an MBA for a break from work, build upon my business acumen, and explore career change opportunities. Therefore, I'm hoping some of you here can evaluate my profile and let me know what types of schools I should be looking at.

For example: Will I be wasting my time and money applying to a Columbia, Stern, UCLA, or USC? (Note: I'm only listing those as schools based upon location. I still need to further research different b-school programs.)

Numerous co-workers have graduated from top 10 b-schools, so I think my work experience is decent...considering some were in more junior positions than me. But, I'm concerned about my GMAT and undergrad GPA.


The following is my profile:
GMAT: 690 (Significantly higher verbal than quant)

Undergrad School: Ranked in the 40-50 range over the past several years (based upon US News & World Reports rankings).

Undergrad GPA: 3.21 (eh...didn't study too hard the first couple years)

Work Experience: 7 years at, arguably, one of the top 10 consulting firms. Recruited straight from undergrad.

Career Progression: Promoted twice. Structured nature of the firm would make it difficult to be promoted more than that based upon yrs with the firm. However, I can elaborate on how my roles and responsibilities increased on different projects. I have also worked on many interesting projects and have had the opportunity to work on engagements in foreign countries.

Extra curricular: Nothing that stands out. I have helped organize volunteer events at work, etc.
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PostWed Sep 30, 2009 10:47 pm
Dear lightsped,

I think you have a competitive profile for just about any school. While your 690 might be below average for a top 10, you are within the mid-50% range and can balance that with well-written essays and strong recommendations. You appear to have some solid work experience, so that will be an advantage. I think it is good to have a mix of schools you apply to: 1-2 reach, 1-3 reasonable and 1-2 safety schools. The top 10 is a reach for everybody due to the selectivity. Schools in the 15-25 range would be reasonable for you. Now you just need to identify what programs are the best match for you based on your future career goals and get started on those applications.

Good luck,
Lisa
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