Low GPA_Unique Work Experience....Chances at a Top 10?

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Hey Stacey,
I was hoping that you could take a look at my info and let me know what you think about my chances of getting into the schools I've selected.

GMAT: 700
Undergrad GPA: 3.22 BA in Mgmt
Age: 27
Ethnicity/Gender: White/Male

My situation is somewhat unique in that I graduated just this year via a distance learning college that is regionally accredited but not AACSB accredited (distance education college) with an obviously low GPA, and have a somewhat low/average GMAT score. That being said, I also worked as a Team Leader for AAFES (government DOD) in Iraq for the past four years and completed 60 of my credit hours in the last year alone.

I had almost 100 multinational employees representing 13 different nations reporting directly to me and oversaw multiple retail facilities that maintained a $15 million on hand inventory with $36 million in annual sales.

My list is:
1. Stanford
2. Wharton
3. Kellogg
4. Chicago
5. Tuck


Do you think building an alternative transcript or shooting for a higher GMAT would be necessary or does the uniqueness of my experience differentiate me enough to focus strictly on my essays?

Thanks in advance.

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by Lisa Anderson » Thu Sep 18, 2008 5:39 am
Dear boene,

Do you have a typo in your post when you say your GPA and GMAT are low/average? A 700 GMAT is a top score and a 3.2 GPA is pretty much the middle of the range. Neither of these are something to worry about nor do you need to build an alternative transcript unless you had less than a B in any quantitative courses. If you did not perform well in quantitative coursework (math, statistics), then you might consider taking these as you will be expected to know the basics for your core finance classes.

If I were you, I would focus on putting together a strong application package as it will be quite competitive this year. Likewise, you might want to add a safety school to the mix.

Best of luck,
Lisa
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by boene » Thu Sep 18, 2008 6:11 am
Thanks Lisa. I had a "B" in Statistics, but "A's" in my other quant courses. I was just worried that having earned my degree from a Distance University would hurt my chances.

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by Lisa Anderson » Thu Sep 18, 2008 6:23 am
I won't lie to you--your degree being earned via distance learning could hurt you at some programs. Distance learning is quickly gaining acceptance and some schools do not view it as negatively as others. However, since you have been working overseas in Iraq it is the only way you would be able to finish. Nevertheless, I remain firm in my previous suggestions of adding 1-2 safety schools and focusing your efforts on your essay/resume/interview. I am confident there are schools out there that will be very interested in your application.

Best of luck,
Lisa
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by boene » Thu Sep 18, 2008 6:28 am
Great! Thank you for your thoughts Lisa.