First of all let me state that this forum has already been amazingly helpful and I have only been reading it for a month or so. I was hoping I could get some advice on GMAT prep and what schools are realistic for me preferably in Texas but I am open to anywhere. Here is my profile:

Degree in Political Science with minor English
GPA 2.5 (2.6 last 60 hours)
A's in both Calculus and Statistics during my undergrad

GPA was low due to extenuating circumstances, mom attempted suicide during my undergrad after a divorce and then my grandmother had a stroke which debilitated her to the point of needing 24/7 care which I helped with.

Work Experience:
7 years full time (never had anything less than a full time job during school. Most of my work experience was in retail but I was promoted 3 times and was a manager of a staff of 20 for 3 years. Now I am a Commercial Account Manager for a leading renewable energy cooperation and would like a MBA to build my knowledge in investing so I can lead projects investing in renewable forms of energy.

I know I do not have the most impressive profile but I would like to just be admitted into a school that can further my knowledge, get a foot in the door, and make me more marketable as I embark on a new and hopefully successful career.

My questions would be:

1. What GMAT score am I going to need to have any chances of being accepted into a decent school (UTD or TCU?

2. Do I have a realistic shot at these schools?

3. What can I do to improve my chances outside of doing well on the GMAT?


Thank you in advance for any help!

Regards,
Kevin