which schools to apply?

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which schools to apply?

by v1shwanath » Sun Dec 07, 2008 5:59 am
Dear Evaluator,
Heres my profile:

GMAT: 750 (Q:48; V:45); AWA 5.0
TOEFL: 113/120 (IBT)
Work Experience: 6 + yrs
Industry: High Tech
Work Profile: Senior Writer authoring user guides for a software product.

I have never been in a leadership role. However, I am completely responsible for my set of docs. ie although i do not manage other people, i have to manage my docs from start to production. is this good enough to convince the admissions committee?
or will my perceived lack of leadership experience hinder my applications?

i am actively involved in a lot of organizational activities for team events etc.
i do this in my residence complex as well, where as a member of the association, i manage expense accounts, and negotiate maintenance contracts with various service providers like elevator maintenance, and security companies etc.
my social and community contributions are mainly in the form of monetary contributions, and a few voluntary work like blood donation, or cleanliness drive etc. however because its been more monetary contributions and less efforts especially after i started working, i do not feel my contributions are very significant.
can you please comment on my chances, and what you see as my weak and strong points while applying.
i am targeting UCLA, Indiana, USC as my top 3 choices. should I am for something higher, or should I aim for something lower?
my concentration area is product marketing preferably in IT.

thanks
regards,

vishwanath
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by Lisa Anderson » Mon Dec 08, 2008 8:58 am
Dear vishwanath,

Based on the information you posted, you seem to have the foundation of a competitive profile for most top 40 programs. I do agree that a potential weakness for you will be the lack of managerial experience, but that is not insurmountable. What makes the difference for any applicant is how well you put your application together. It is imperative you present a strong rationale for why you want a MBA, how it fits into your overall career plan, and why the school you are applying to is a good match for you. Likewise, you must distinguish yourself from the competition and demonstrate evidence of leadership potential. Perhaps you have an example or two from your organizational activities for team events?

As for your school list, I think those are appropriate. You might consider adding one safety option that would be outside the top 20 as a backup plan.

Good luck,
Lisa
Lisa Anderson
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Stacy Blackman Consulting

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