Low Gpa/Hi GMAT. Good Progression in work experience

Launched April 26, 2006
This topic has expert replies
Newbie | Next Rank: 10 Posts
Posts: 3
Joined: Mon Mar 15, 2010 6:34 am
Hi Stacy,

I went to a state university and graduated as an engineer with a GPA of 2.6. I am currently studying to take my gmats. I have significantly moved up positons/pay since i initally started. I am scoring around a 710 in practice tests. Can I use this good work experience and a hopefull 700 on the gmats to have a chance at getting into the part time program at Stern?
Source: — Ask Stacy Blackman |

GMAT/MBA Expert

User avatar
MBA Admissions Consultant
Posts: 3845
Joined: Wed Feb 06, 2008 8:57 pm
Location: Houston, TX
Thanked: 442 times
Followed by:148 members

by Lisa Anderson » Mon Mar 15, 2010 11:50 am
Dear kunal1234,

The part-time program at Stern will respond favorably to a high GMAT score and successful work experience. To be a competitive applicant, you will want to translate those advantages into a strong application such that your GPA is the only potential weakness for you. If you are able to do that, then I think you will be a competitive applicant.

Good luck,
Lisa
Lisa Anderson
Consultant
Stacy Blackman Consulting

Learn more about me

Newbie | Next Rank: 10 Posts
Posts: 3
Joined: Mon Mar 15, 2010 6:34 am

by kunal1234 » Tue Mar 16, 2010 4:59 am
Would this be done in the personal essay section. Should I point out that I made mistakes in college and that is why my GPA is low. Also, because i recognized those mistakes, I am now working hard to achieve my goal by getting a 700 on the Gmat and progressing at work. Should I highlight something along those lines in the personal essay?

User avatar
Senior | Next Rank: 100 Posts
Posts: 57
Joined: Wed Feb 17, 2010 6:15 pm
Location: MD
Thanked: 2 times

by GMAT680 » Tue Mar 16, 2010 11:52 am
Kunal,

we are somehow on the same page. Please see my request to Lisa and feel free to chip in an input to the post.

https://www.beatthegmat.com/how-to-deal- ... tml#236822

GMAT/MBA Expert

User avatar
MBA Admissions Consultant
Posts: 3845
Joined: Wed Feb 06, 2008 8:57 pm
Location: Houston, TX
Thanked: 442 times
Followed by:148 members

by Lisa Anderson » Wed Mar 17, 2010 6:31 am
Dear kunal1234,

You can use the optional essay/additional information section to address a low GPA if you feel it necessary. In the essay, you would want to note any extenuating or mitigating circumstances that contributed to your academic performance in college (i.e., worked 50 hours per week, struggled with an illness, etc.). But more importantly, the bulk of the essay should focus on how you are in a different place now and ready to focus on business school--how you are more mature and committed to being successful inside and outside the classroom. Likewise, you will want to note any accomplishments that support you are different like your successful career and GMAT score.

Regards,
Lisa
Lisa Anderson
Consultant
Stacy Blackman Consulting

Learn more about me