Overcoming Undergraduate Quantitative Under-performance

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Started off college (at Michigan) as an economics major, but was immature and unfocused. I didn't do well in most of my classes and my problems culminated in dropping a 400-level economics class over halfway through the semester (shows on my transcript) and becoming a Communications major. I began to take school more seriously and I ended college with just under a 3.3 GPA (upward trend each semester from sophomore year onward, with a 3.5 senior year). I also took the GMATs senior year, and scored a 730 (96th overall, 94th Verbal, 82nd Math).

I have spent the past 2 years working in entertainment in Los Angeles. Although my job is not quantitative or traditional, the company is extremely prestigious and well-respected in the industry. Honestly, I have one of the best jobs someone my age can have in this business.

However, I would like to get an MBA because I am interesting in switching to a more traditional career path such as consulting or banking within media and entertainment. I am looking to apply to MBA programs either this admissions cycle or the following, but am worried that my poor performance in economics classes as an undergrad will greatly hurt my chances at target programs (NYU, USC and UCLA). Also, FYI, I have exceptional undergraduate leadership experience- I was president of a major organization at Michigan with a budget of over 100k (and no, it was not a fraternity).

1. Are these programs good target schools for me?
2. Is there anything I can do to help boost my chances and mitigate the quantitative issue? I am considering taking an online statistics or finance course to help my application.
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by PrepMBA.AlexLeventhal » Mon Jun 27, 2011 9:33 pm
Good Evening,

Writing to you from the Melrose area:)

You were able to right the ship as far as I am concerned by the time you left Michigan with an overall GPA that is not as much of a liability as you may think. Great that you had an upward trend and I like the idea of taking a quant class now for a grade, but do it live at USC or UCLA if possible vs virtual. You'll likely meet some new people as well.

Your school choices are realistic, with USC a strong possibility and NYU/UCLA more of a stretch.

Your GMAT is also solid, but the question is did you leave any meat on that bone? A 730 is very solid and you have no obligation to retake (particularly for USC) but if you feel you could move the needle on the quant then it might be worth consideration, as it will take way doubts of analytical firepower.

I help clients each year with below average gpas from lesser schools than Michigan. You are not out of the running. With some strong essays and a targeted career path, you could have a solid admissions season.

You can stay in your job another year and wait to apply if you feel you could be promoted or gain additional responsibilities. But with two years of experience (above your peer group as you state), you can take a shot now, particularly for schools that have better odds for recent grads.

Stay positive.
Alex Leventhal
Harvard MBA, 1998
Prep MBA Admissions Consulting
www.prepmba.com
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