Trying to decide for Fall 2010

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Trying to decide for Fall 2010

by thinkin_b » Tue Mar 24, 2009 9:05 am
Hello,

I am thinking about applying to MBA programs at some Top 10 schools (Kellogg, Booth, Yale and Haas) in the Fall of 2010, but I am not sure if I should go ahead. It would be great if someone on this board could give me an opinion..

My basic situation is that I have been involved with a local non profit for the last 3 years or so, apart from my day job at a consulting firm, and I am at a point where I need an MBA to get bigger responsibilities both at the non profit and at work. I was a software developer by training, until I switched to sales consulting in 2007, but my responsibilities are still somewhat driven by my past as a developer and an MBA seems like a great way to formalize my switch into the business world.

Here are some facts and figures:

GMAT: 720
GPA: 3.7 (Masters in Comp Sci), First Class (65%) in Bachelors (Non GPA format)
Career: 1 year Software Developer in India, 3 years as a Systems Engineer/Developer in the US, 1.5 years as a Sales Consultant in the US
Extracurricular: 3 years at a local non profit as a technical consultant, 1 year fundraising for a different non profit.

Does anyone here think I stand a chance at the top level programs I am aiming for? Do I need to beef up my GMAT more? (Ive heard that I might be up against a super competitive applicant pool in 2010), but all the programs I listed seem to have a good mix of the social responsibility and marketing focus that I am looking for..

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!
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by Lisa Anderson » Wed Mar 25, 2009 6:48 pm
Dear thinkin_b,

Based on the limited information provided, I think you have the foundation for a competitive application to your target schools. However, you are targeting four highly competitive/selective business schools. As such, your essays, recommendations, and interviews are critical to the ultimate decision. I think you have some interesting professional and nonprofit experience that should distinguish you from other applicants. Be sure to convey your successful leadership and teamwork experiences in your essays as well as a solid rationale for getting your MBA in relation to your past experiences and future career goals. I'm not convinced scoring a 740 or 750 would have a significant impact on your decision, but a higher score certainly won't hurt your chances. Finally, you might want to add 1-2 safety schools to your list. While you have a good shot at one of your top 4, it is always good to have a backup plan.

Best of luck,
Lisa
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by thinkin_b » Thu Mar 26, 2009 12:48 pm
Thanks for your response, Lisa..very helpful indeed!