Profile Evaluation

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Profile Evaluation

by MBA2010-2012 » Thu May 21, 2009 5:36 pm
Hi Lisa,

I was hoping to get an assessment from you based on the summary below:

I’m applying for a full-time MBA program; Class of 2012

Demographics
Asian American
30 when applying

Education
Top 10 undergraduate business school
BS in Business Administration – Finance/Accounting Concentration
3.79 GPA with Honors
Dean's List

GMAT
640 (76%)
Q46 (77%)
V31 (58%) I can address the weaker verbal score with an honors thesis completed in college and my jobs have required extensive writing. Also, my AWA score was a 5.5.

Resume
Investment Banking Analyst
4 years with two different banks
Typical banking experience but have several great stories to include in essays

Finance Firm
Associate
2 years
Small team which provided fantastic experience and exposure
Several examples of teamwork, leadership, and innovation which can be included in essays

Extracurricular
College
Honor/Service Fraternity – Held various leadership positions

Post-College
Organization which brought together teenagers from conflict regions in the world
Volunteered with senior citizens
Volunteered with cancer patients
I’m also exploring a volunteer opportunity overseas for a few weeks which would be working with children and education

My list of schools includes: Rice University, Vanderbilt, Indiana University, University of Texas (Austin), University of Maryland (College Park), and Southern Methodist.

I’m planning on applying in Round 1.

Given my current GMAT score and background, can you please tell me which schools would be realistic? I’ve reviewed the class profiles for each and saw that I’m in the 80% GMAT range for each but would appreciate your insight.

Thanks!
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by Lisa Anderson » Sat May 23, 2009 8:57 am
Dear MBA2010-2012,

I think you have a chance at any of your target schools, despite your GMAT being below average for these schools. Raising your GMAT score 20-30 points would improve your application and make you more competitive though. If you have only taken the GMAT once, you might consider taking it again to increase your score since that is the only potential weakness in your profile based on your post.

You have a high GPA and good work experience/extracurriculars. What will determine the decision will be how well you put together your application--well-written essays, good recommendations, and great interviews. I also think you need to visit these schools in person and try to establish a rapport with one of the admissions professionals.

Good luck,
Lisa
Lisa Anderson
Consultant
Stacy Blackman Consulting

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