Should I try for HBS/wharton??

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Should I try for HBS/wharton??

by ddd » Thu Mar 20, 2008 7:49 am
Hi stacy,
First of all, I would provide details.

GMAT score:750(50 M,40 V)
GPA : Bachlor degree B.E. in computers(around 3)
Masters (Masters in Computers) (4---Ist rank)
Experience: IT experience 6 years (India-4.5, USA-1.5)
Worked with companies Techmahindra, Siemens etc.
Publications: Published a research paper in japan university about robotics (My masters project was in robotics)
Times of india (Leading indian news paper) covered the same project with my info).
I was involved in different social/cultural activity in my school and college, though there is no certificate etc. to prove that.
I have done community service when i was in school but it was not with any established organizations, so I cann't have any proof.
I can have good recommendation letters.
Essays---English is not my native language, and being an engineering student, i don't think i can manage very effective essays myself.

Now my questions:
1) Do I have chance to get in the top 5 USA colleges??
2) I am ready to wait for 1-2 years, is there any way, I can improve my application in 1 year in order to achieve my dream to get into Harvard/wharton??
3)If I cann't get into top 5 usa universities, my next choice is ISB, india (20th rank by FT this year) because it is cheaper and duration is just one year. What do you suggest about that??


Thanks,
ddd
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by Lisa Anderson » Thu Mar 20, 2008 10:17 am
Dear ddd:

It is always hard to distinguish yourself in the applicant pools at top 5 MBA programs as their pool is quite large. It can be even more challenging if you have a similar profile to a large percentage of the applicant pool as you do (700+ GMAT, engineer, India). You need to identify what makes you unique--experiences, goals, etc. and then find a way to highlight that in your application. Likewise, you need to take every opportunity to meet someone, admissions staff/alumni/faculty, from the schools you are targeting to gain some exposure.

There are many options for business school out there. I would encourage you to visit the sticky on school selection for tips on evaluating these programs to determine the best ones for you.

Good luck!
Lisa
Lisa Anderson
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Stacy Blackman Consulting

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