I am still studying for the GMAT and will more than likely apply fall 2010 for entrance fall 2011. I want to understand what my chances are for Wharton or HBS given my credentials below. I feel like the GMAT and my employment gap is my biggest weakness and I have no clue if I should even bother applying to the top 5. Thoughts?
- Undergrad GPA of 3.3 from Emory University (political science and history double major though)
- graduated 2003
- worked as a legal assistant at a Big Law firm for 9 months after graduation before considering finance
- worked as an analyst in boutique investment bank for 2 years
- worked as a bond trader/junior portfolio manager for 3 years at largest asset management firm in the world
- left bond trading position to move out of NYC and join my husband in FL, started a wedding planning business here in FL as well as started an energy consulting business with my uncle, located in the Philippines
Edited to add extracurriculars:
- iMentor from 2005-2009: Education mentor for
- Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc.:
- Secretary of executive board of Lambda Eta
chapter, 2004-2005
- Vice President of Lambda Eta chapter, 2005-2006
- Member of Women's Auxiliary of Salvation Army
- Silent Auction Chair, present
I have been told that my story sounds very different from the average laid off banker on Wall Street. I was hoping to apply this fall but my GMAT score is nowhere near where I need it to be.
What is the minimum I should be aiming for in the GMAT given my "story?" I know 700 is still the obvious answer, but do I get any slack due to my age and work history?
Thanks in advance.
- Undergrad GPA of 3.3 from Emory University (political science and history double major though)
- graduated 2003
- worked as a legal assistant at a Big Law firm for 9 months after graduation before considering finance
- worked as an analyst in boutique investment bank for 2 years
- worked as a bond trader/junior portfolio manager for 3 years at largest asset management firm in the world
- left bond trading position to move out of NYC and join my husband in FL, started a wedding planning business here in FL as well as started an energy consulting business with my uncle, located in the Philippines
Edited to add extracurriculars:
- iMentor from 2005-2009: Education mentor for
- Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc.:
- Secretary of executive board of Lambda Eta
chapter, 2004-2005
- Vice President of Lambda Eta chapter, 2005-2006
- Member of Women's Auxiliary of Salvation Army
- Silent Auction Chair, present
I have been told that my story sounds very different from the average laid off banker on Wall Street. I was hoping to apply this fall but my GMAT score is nowhere near where I need it to be.
What is the minimum I should be aiming for in the GMAT given my "story?" I know 700 is still the obvious answer, but do I get any slack due to my age and work history?
Thanks in advance.












