MBA/MPP HBS

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MBA/MPP HBS

by Sc398 » Fri Jul 26, 2013 11:42 am
Hi Jon,

You had helped give me an evaluation before but lately I'm leaning in a slightly different direction so I thought I would ask another favor of you. I've decided that in addition to a standard MBA application to a number of schools, I'd like to try to apply to Harvard's MBA/MPP program as my long-shot. I wanted to know if you had any experience dealing with this or a similar program and if there were any unique strategies. My work experience is with a leader in Public Finance (mainly public debt issuance and strategic consulting) though my background is on the investment side (head of U.S. equity investments - $4B+ portfolio). I was hoping to spin this into a good background for the MBA/MPP to then go into strategic planning/consulting on the public finance or economic development side. Here's a little bit more background:

-720 GMAT (45Q/44V - retaking b/c left some quant points on the table)
-3.75 GPA (honors college of top 75 US News university)
-Division-I men's basketball player
-Recently started photography hobby/business, becoming commercially successful, winning a few minor awards and selling pieces.
-Full CFA designation (passed all three levels)
-Promoted once to Senior Analyst, potential for second but likely not before September 16 deadline
-Manage team of 5 analysts and serve as liaison with director of research

I guess I'm hoping that despite the lack of traditional standouts for Harvard that I can piece together a cohesive vision that I can hopefully sell to an Admissions Committee. I know that people believe there's no benefit to chances by doing dual degrees, but in this case I'm interested in it and think it helps add to my vision/package. Any advice? Thanks so much for your time.
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by Jon@Admissionado » Mon Jul 29, 2013 2:53 am
Ah right! I remember your profile. So now you are aiming for the MBA/MPP program! Psshhhhhh, some tough stuff! Your story makes sense, and your profile is great, but still, so is everyone else's who applies, so actually my first question would be where ELSE are you applying to. I mean, I think you have somewhat of a shot here (and to know more we'd have to dig more), but a strategy isn't built on one application alone, my friend. To be honest there are a few things missing to make you that MPP/MBA candidate - the ivy league school, valedictorian, some other super strong volunteer/extra curric (like head of the Student GO), so if you are interested in public money, then you should also think about other places...

MY question though as AdCom member would be how does the MPP stuff fit into your PAST? I see the business side of things, but what about the public side of things????
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