Profile evaluation

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Profile evaluation

by smbiswas » Sun Nov 06, 2011 12:58 pm
Hi,
I'm Smita.

I graduated with an engineering degree from the University of Mumbai, India, in 2006 with a major in Information technology.
Thereafter I joined IMRB International, part of the Kantar Group, WPP's research, insights and consultancy network.
I have 5 years of work experience in market research field and am currently a Director handling a team of 10 members.

Work Experience
In a nut shell, as the Director in the MindTech Dept of IMRB my work involves analyzing data using statistical techniques to develop strategies and recommendations for clients, coordinating with internal departments and global teams and facilitating business development activities. I have interacted with clients from various sectors like CPG, Telecom, and Media (TV, Radio, and Internet.)
I am also involved in recruitment, training and mentorship related efforts for my divison.

Overall this has been a very rewarding experience for me, both in terms of personal growth and professional development. I've had 4 promotions in 5 years. This relatively fast tracked growth has provided the opportunity to lead teams on very complex projects and at the same time gain experience across various aspects of the market research process.

In terms of academics, I had average scores during my undergrad. I was actively involved in extracurricular activities like organizing festivals, lecture series and competitions. I'm also involved in community initiatives related to education of young children through my affiliation with nonprofit organizations.


In the long term I see myself as a Chief Marketing Officer with a strong aptitude for the entire marketing value chain including research, product development, branding, sales and advertising. I'm looking at 2 ways to achieve the same post MBA: i) by getting into strategy/marketing consulting firms ii) joining a market research division of a marketing focused company like P&G and rotate through different divisions


I will take the GMAT on 26th December. Given that I'm relatively late into the process, please help me with schools that I can realistically target. Any other advice is deeply appreciated.

Thanks
Smita
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by Stacey Oyler » Mon Nov 07, 2011 4:38 pm
Hi,

Thanks for your post. You seem to have an impressive profile - especially your professional experience. Additionally, your goals are clear and logical which is important for bschool.

My main concern is around your timing. By taking the GMAT in December you aren't allowing much time to complete applications by the January deadlines for most schools. I generally advise my clients against working on essays and studying for the GMAT at the same time. Both are essentially full time jobs (in addition to the job you already have), and usually one of them suffers as a result.

I don't typically suggest applying in round 3. Round 3 is a very challenging round often simply due to capacity issues. Many times schools simply don't have many spots left in the class by the final round and can't make room for even the best candidates.

Would you be able to move your GMAT test date up in order to allow you the month of December to work on your applications?

Regards,

Stacey
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by smbiswas » Sun Nov 13, 2011 9:32 am
Thanks Stacey. I do realize that my essay/application development schedule is packed. Assuming I give my exam earlier by November end then which schools would you recommend. :Lets say worst case I end up with a score of 600 and best case 700, how much of an impact could this have on my chances in the schools that you recommend.

Thanks a lot for your time and guidance.

Regards
S/

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by Stacey Oyler » Tue Nov 15, 2011 8:01 pm
Hi,

Thanks for your additional post. In regard to your question about GMAT score, a score of 600 vs. 700 means quite a bit in terms of school selection. Top 15 schools tend to have average GMAT scores of 710+, while top 20-30 programs tend to have averages anywhere from 650-700.

By moving your test dates up to November you'll certainly have more time to complete your applications. I suggest compiling two lists at this point. A list of "best case scenario" schools as well as a list of less competitive programs should you score on the lower end of your scale.

Study as much as you can between now and your test date. I think it's also important that you keep in mind that scoring anywhere for 10-30 points higher on practice exams is quite common, so don't take the test until you are scoring at least 20 point above your target score.

Best,

Stacey
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Stacey Oyler
Clear Admit, LLC
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215.568.2590

Stay Informed with Clear Admit!
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