Hi, I took the GMAT two weeks ago, and after taking it easy since then, I figure it's time to start gearing up for the application process. I have a few questions I'd like to run by you guys:
Background:
Male, Chinese, 25 (26 by target Fall 09 start date)
GMAT/ GPA:
710/ 3.33 from USC
GPA is lower than I'd like it to be, but the bright side, all 300/400 level and core business classes are solid A's and B+'s.
Work Experience:
Been working for a little over four years--3 in banking and 1 in asset management. Will have five years+ of work experience by Fall 2009. CFA charterholder (by the way, does the charter even hold any weight in the MBA admission process?)
References:
One solid letter from former supervisor at bank and second letter, having to come from current employer, will not be as great (at least not yet, since I've only been here a year). It'll probably look odd if both my letters come from last employer and none from current, right?
Extra:
Unfortunately, this is my weakest spot and I think the area where paying for the services SBC or some other consultant might be worth the money--differentiating myself. I'm reading Montauk's book right now, but some of the stuff I guess doesn't really apply to my situation (for example, there's a sample essay from an army sergeant?? I'm just one of them "folks"). Did lots of clubs in high school and college, but nothing since then, ie, non profit, volunteer work, nothing like that. Also did not start my own company. Go me!
Target Schools: (in order of preference)
-Wharton
-Haas
-NYU/UCLA
-Good ol' Marshall
With this condensed information, do you think these schools are within reach? The Wharton and Haas that is... and what feedback can you provide?
Lastly, on a side note, what would you say is the added benefit of a full time program vs. part time, aside from the networking and recruiting? My point is I can probably get into UCLA part time, but might be on the cusp of getting into the full time program and may need additional resources to better my chances (your services). At the end of the day, isn't an Anderson MBA still an Anderson MBA, whether full time or part time? It's not like that'll be explicitly stated on resumes. It seems like the only reason to go to a part time program is financially related..
Thanks!
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Lisa Anderson
- MBA Admissions Consultant
- Posts: 3845
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Dear puniaball,
I think you have the foundation for a competitive application to the schools you mention. However, you are correct that you will need to differentiate yourself in these applicant pools to reach a positive admission decision, especially at Haas and Wharton. If you feel you need assistance on essays, resume and interview preparation, then I would encourage you to seek out help, whether it come from SB Consulting or from a trusted colleague.
To answer some of your questions:
-No, being a CFA charterholder does not really have any impact on the admissions decision.
-It is fine to have both references from a former employer if you have worked there a considerable amount of time. If you decide not to ask anyone from your current employer, then simply explain why in the additional information/optional essay. For many applicants, they do not have a current employer rec because they do not want the employer to know they are applying to business school. Ideally, though, you want someone from your current job if possible.
-It is good to see you had some extracurriculars in college. Perhaps there is something you could get involved with now? Or maybe you play some team sports?
-Part time MBA programs are designed for working professionals planning to stay in their current career path. As such, they generally do not have the same career services and other networking opportunities available to them. Likewise, they might not have the same elective offerings or number of electives. Yes, the Anderson MBA is the Anderson MBA regardless of which program but the curriculum and services might vary resulting in different experiences.
Think about what you want from your MBA experience and then you will know whether part time or full time is the best option for you.
Best of luck,
Lisa
I think you have the foundation for a competitive application to the schools you mention. However, you are correct that you will need to differentiate yourself in these applicant pools to reach a positive admission decision, especially at Haas and Wharton. If you feel you need assistance on essays, resume and interview preparation, then I would encourage you to seek out help, whether it come from SB Consulting or from a trusted colleague.
To answer some of your questions:
-No, being a CFA charterholder does not really have any impact on the admissions decision.
-It is fine to have both references from a former employer if you have worked there a considerable amount of time. If you decide not to ask anyone from your current employer, then simply explain why in the additional information/optional essay. For many applicants, they do not have a current employer rec because they do not want the employer to know they are applying to business school. Ideally, though, you want someone from your current job if possible.
-It is good to see you had some extracurriculars in college. Perhaps there is something you could get involved with now? Or maybe you play some team sports?
-Part time MBA programs are designed for working professionals planning to stay in their current career path. As such, they generally do not have the same career services and other networking opportunities available to them. Likewise, they might not have the same elective offerings or number of electives. Yes, the Anderson MBA is the Anderson MBA regardless of which program but the curriculum and services might vary resulting in different experiences.
Think about what you want from your MBA experience and then you will know whether part time or full time is the best option for you.
Best of luck,
Lisa
