Law school graduate with little business experience

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I just finished law school and can not take the bar for two years because I lied on my law school application about my arrest history when I applied four years ago. I came clean to the school about the nondisclosure and they have offered to confer my degree in two years if I stay out of trouble.

I am interested in going to business school for a full time 2 year program starting the fall of 2009. My G.P.A in law school, Penn State, was a 3.34 cum, and put me around the top 25%. I specialized in trial advocacy in law school. I have business experience from undergraduate including working in insurance and starting two campus businesses . I can probably muster up some good recommendations. I'm testing my GMAT at about a 710-750 range. I'm also Hispanic.

Assuming I hit that GMAT range in August,
1) How much will my lack of recent business experience affect my chances in getting in a competitive school (a.k.a is 2-5 years of full time work at a business a prerequisite)?
2) How much will my lengthy arrest record (which concluded four years ago) and nondisclosure to the law school affect my chances?
3) Does proven success in upper level graduate work mean anything?

Any input would be much appreciated, as well as any suggestions about where to apply.
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by Lisa Anderson » Mon Jul 21, 2008 7:09 am
Dear technicor,

I will be quite direct and honest with you as I feel you should know what you will encounter applying to business school. You are facing an uphill battle due to your failure to disclose your background. It is in your best interest to disclose not only your arrest record, but also your failure to be honest on your law school application. Business schools will be hesitant to admit you knowing your prior actions, regardless of your GMAT score. However, you might find a small program willing to give you the benefit of the doubt if you are completely honest with the admissions staff.

Most programs do not "require" work experience post-bachelor's degree, but strongly prefer applicants have at least two years. It does not have to be in a business function, but be at a professional level. Your academic record in law school will be helpful and demonstrate your academic aptitude.

Best of luck,
Lisa
Lisa Anderson
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Stacy Blackman Consulting

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