Would somebody kindly evaluate my profile (brief summary below) and guide me with some information that I seek.
Name: Ashwin
Country: India
Qualifying Examinations:
GMAT: 750 (Q49, V43, 6.0AWA)
TOEFL iBT: 116 (29 in each of the 4 sections)
Education
Completed my Bachelors in Commerce - Majored in Accounting - graduated with 95% in my core subjects
GPA: (I do not know the most accurate method of converting the %'s in the Indian grading system to the GPA system)
Full Time Professional Experience- 4 years to date: Worked primarily in India with a couple of projects outside of India (New York, US and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
Worked in JP Morgan Chase in the Middle office of the Investment Banking division. Currently working at Accenture Consulting in the area of Business Process Consulting (a little over 2 years in this organization now). Was recently promoted from an Analyst to a Consultant.
Have also won several awards at both the organizatons.
Extra Curriculars:
Opened an India chapter of a Sustainable Development NGO while I was pursuing my bachelors. Served as the General Secretary for 2 years. Then moved on to be a permanent board member. However, 4 years into its existance, we had to close the local chapter.
Was involved in Theatre and Dramatics professionally. Been part of a theatre troop right after graduation and opted out of college placements to pursue my interests in acting. Have acted in several plays and play festivals. Have also been a part of the production team for a few. However, a year later, due to financial difficulties, had to move onto a more lucrative job. Believe me, theatre in India did not earn as much then.
Was a part of the college cultural team and represented my college at various national competitions. Directed several plays and theatrical events. Have won several awards across the nation including Best Actor for 3 years in a row in college.
My Queries:
1. I am looking to change in career track and move into the Media and Entertainment Industry. This would give me the opportunity to not just pursue the consulting option with the Media Industry but also explore a little creatively (hopefully), once I'm into that Industry and have started to network with the right set of people. Could you, therefore, suggest the best suited Business Schools (are there any of those in the Top 10?) interms of location and the alumni network.
[as a side note: I am currently in the process of writing my first book - which I want to later adapt into a play. Who knows, the network I build in this Industry might help in the future!]
2. In addition to my bachelors degree, I have also completed my CFA (the Indian Charter though) and fear to quote this degree as the Indian Charter is conferred even with no considerable work experience as a Financial Analyst. How would you suggest I project this? Do you think it is worth quoting this CFA charter (as all I have gained out of it is theoritical knowledge and not much of practical exposure in the field).
3. Thirdly, is it fine to project that I was interested in Theatre and opted out of placements to pursue my interest; however, had to get back into the corporate world because of my financial obligations?
4. And lastly, what are my chances I have to crack these schools that you may suggest in Q1? I know the answer to this question may really be dependent on my application, including essays and letters of recommendations, and how well I do in the interviews; but do I stand a good chance?
Your advice is appreciated. And your patience in reading this long note is admired too
Thanks,
Ashwin
