Hi,
Thanks for your post and for your honest personal assessment. While I agree that your GPA is a potential red flag, your strong upward trajectory combined with your GPA in your Masters program and your solid GMAT will certainly help mitigate the concern. You will want to address the low GPA head on in your application by writing an optional essay. Keep in mind that this essay should be short - 250-300 words maximum and direct to the point. Be sure you not only explain the reason surrounding your low GPA, but that you also point to the above mentioned strengths that prove you are capable of handling the bschool curriculum.
In regard to your concern around extracurricular activities, it's a little late in the game to do anything about it. However, it does appear that you do have quite a few activities and personal interests. Sometimes I think applicants can get caught up in "volunteer work" and incorrectly assume that if they aren't walking dogs at a shelter on weekly basis then they fall short of adcom expectations. This quite simply isn't true. It's about the activities you choose to pursue just as much as it is about the level of involvement. I'm guessing you can probably find some compelling stories to tell in your essays based on your personal interests and activities.
If you'd like a more detailed (and free) assessment you can send your resume to
[email protected].
Best,
Stacey
