Profile evaluation

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Profile evaluation

by Onkey » Tue Jun 16, 2009 3:37 pm
Hi,

Thank you very much in advance for evaluating my profile. I am a undergrad student at Johns Hopkins University majoring in Business Management. I have currently a 3.95 overall GPA and expect to graduate in Jan 2010. I should graduate with honors and received several scholarships. I am originally from Germany and came to the US 3 years ago. I completed a year of full time Voluntary service in a homeless shelter in Baltimore. Besides my studies I also have worked for a year as a Office Manager for a non-profit that empowers students to address global issues. I am 24 years old and haven't taken the GMAT yet. Once graduated I am planning on working for two years in consulting or at a large cooperation. I would like to earn my right after my BS but I heard the chances for admission are lower. My goal is to earn a MBA from worldwide Top 10 business school. Especially I like Wharton, HBS, LBS, Stanford.

What are my chances ?
Should I apply now or wait and work two years ?
What else could I do to make my to make my application more competitive ?
The undergrad business program at Johns Hopkins is not ranked and relatively unknown. Does that hurts me ?
Source: — Ask an MBA Admissions Consultant |

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by Cindy Tokumitsu » Tue Jun 23, 2009 1:40 am
Hello,

The MBA programs you mention do accept a very small number of people right out of undergrad. The challenge you face as a younger applicant is proving your value and contribution to the program and to your classmates if admitted. Although you are clearly academically qualified, you will be a part of a team with people much more experienced. People will bring a lot of insight from their real-world experience, and you need to bring equal value. Moreover, will you be comfortable leading a team of 24-30 year-olds? In your application you must make the case not just for why it’s the right thing for you at this time – which is the absolutely key point – but also how you will hold your own and contribute equally.

Waiting two years would probably increase your chances, but if you want to apply now, I don’t see why you shouldn’t. You may get admitted (assuming other factors are in line such as GMAT and extracurricular participation), and if you don’t you can always reapply. With the possible exception of HBS, being a reapplicant to the programs you cite is not a negative factor. It is neutral at least, and sometimes a positive factor.

The Hopkins business program isn’t highly ranked, but Hopkins overall is known for its rigor and your stellar GPA from that program will be a real asset.

Best regards,
Cindy Tokumitsu
Senior Editor, Accepted.com
www.Accepted.com