Hello,

So I just found out at the investment firm that I am working with that I'll be on a part-time consultant basis in the coming year. I have previously considered applying for an MBA, as I attended 3 info sessions months ago, but have not recently done anything. *Start crisis mode* Now, given the news with my firm, I need to do something... and quick.

Please help!

My background:
UC Irvine: BA Econ, minor Management - GPA 2.94 (2 years of computer engineering... ouch), A's and B's in major classes
SAT: 1410, 750 math (98 pct), 660 verbal (91 pct)
GMAT, 1st time no studying: 650
Work exp (since ugrad): 2 years Financial Advisor, 2 years Equity Trading, 1 year Hedge Fund
Extras: Bone marrow donor, CFA candidate (June 2010 regardless of MBA), Rotary Youth Leadership Award. NASD Series 6/63/65, Insurance and Real Estate License

Please comment on two things:
1. I am thinking of applying to: Wharton*, Booth, Harvard*, UCLA*, Johnson (* = I went to the info session for them). How does my profile stack up? I know that my GPA is not competitive, but I think my work experience is a good progression, and I think I can hit a good 700+ GMAT.
2. I don't think I have enough time to assemble strong applications for Round 2, so I think I must apply to Round 3. Is this a good idea given that my GPA is a worry? Is it worth it to do my best on a couple Round 2 applications - and go with what I can get on the GMAT in that limited time?

Thank you very much for your time and consideration!