Just came out of the test center for the 3rd time. Not going to offer any earth-shattering insight. Rather, I'm just going to post to encourage others who've started on a bad note, as that's what I've found most valuable from this board: reading stories of individuals who have improved significantly and seeing that it can be done.
With blood, sweat and tears, and the help of the GMAT Ninja Charles, I improved 120 points in 4 months. The score isn't ideal, but I'm going with it.
Leading up to the first test, I did self-study with MGMAT and official guide stuff for about 5 weeks. After the test 1 debacle, I committed myself to doing whatever it would take to improve. For me, that involved getting precise and dedicated GMAT assistance from a private tutor, which is the best way I learn (vs. doing a larger class). Charles (www.gmatninja.com) was a major contributor to my improvement as he first helped build a base of knowledge upon which we then were able to create specific plans that attacked key areas of deficiency. While not inexpensive, I found him to be a great value in terms of insight, time and resources, particularly in comparison to rates for private tutoring from larger firms.
At the end of the day, I spent well over 200 hours studying, beginning way back when in June. That's A LOT of time. Would I like a 730 with a 95%V and 80%Q? Of course. It is what it is at this point and will have to do.
Best of luck to all those hoping for a great score and hard work can pay off!
Hopefully I'll follow up with some positive admissions news in a few months : )
With blood, sweat and tears, and the help of the GMAT Ninja Charles, I improved 120 points in 4 months. The score isn't ideal, but I'm going with it.
Leading up to the first test, I did self-study with MGMAT and official guide stuff for about 5 weeks. After the test 1 debacle, I committed myself to doing whatever it would take to improve. For me, that involved getting precise and dedicated GMAT assistance from a private tutor, which is the best way I learn (vs. doing a larger class). Charles (www.gmatninja.com) was a major contributor to my improvement as he first helped build a base of knowledge upon which we then were able to create specific plans that attacked key areas of deficiency. While not inexpensive, I found him to be a great value in terms of insight, time and resources, particularly in comparison to rates for private tutoring from larger firms.
At the end of the day, I spent well over 200 hours studying, beginning way back when in June. That's A LOT of time. Would I like a 730 with a 95%V and 80%Q? Of course. It is what it is at this point and will have to do.
Best of luck to all those hoping for a great score and hard work can pay off!
Hopefully I'll follow up with some positive admissions news in a few months : )
Last edited by jraider06 on Thu Dec 16, 2010 6:06 pm, edited 1 time in total.
