Do I have a shot?

Launched April 26, 2006
This topic has expert replies
Newbie | Next Rank: 10 Posts
Posts: 1
Joined: Thu Jul 09, 2009 11:41 am

Do I have a shot?

by kc340361 » Thu Jul 09, 2009 11:46 am
Hi Stacy, Thanks for the advice. Below are my stats and info.

GMAT: 690, little bit better on verbal

Undergrad GPA: 3.9--2nd or 3rd tier school

Double Major: Finance and Economics

Awards: Graduated summa cum laude, recipient of Fulbright Scholarship to country in Asia

Work experience: 1 year studying foreign language in Asia before beginning three year analyst program in NYC. I just finished my analyst program. I've tried to maintain my language skills but it has been a bit difficult, probably fallen from high-advanced level of Mandarin to mid-intermediate level.

Target schools: Sloan, Tepper, Wharton, Stern, Columbia


Concerns: I have strong writing skills, excellent recommendations, but I have little to no non-profit exposure because my NYC finance job as an analyst absorbed a significant portion of my time.

Based upon the above, your thoughts on admission?
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 » Fri Jul 10, 2009 6:33 pm
Dear kc340361,

Based on the limited information provided, I think you have the foundation for a competitive application to your target schools. However, you are targeting five of the most competitive/selective business schools. As such, your essays, recommendations, and interviews are critical to the ultimate decision. Be sure to convey your successful leadership and teamwork experiences in your essays as well as a solid rationale for getting your MBA in relation to your past experiences and future career goals. It is understandable that you did not have much time to participate in any activities outside of the office as an analyst, but there will be others with similar professional experience who have. Perhaps you could get involved in something now or have been involved with other activities than nonprofits? While I don't think a lack of extracurriculars will result in an automatic rejection, you should be aware that you might be asked about that in your interviews.

Best of luck,
Lisa
Lisa Anderson
Consultant
Stacy Blackman Consulting

Learn more about me