Profile Evaluation - Low GPA vs. Good GMAT

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Profile Evaluation - Low GPA vs. Good GMAT

by felipz24 » Thu Jun 14, 2012 7:29 am
I'm planning to apply to business schools within the next year or so, but wanted to get a sense for how my GPA is going to hurt my chances and what I can do to counter that impact. I'd only really go to business school if I can go to one of: Berkeley, H/S/W, Northwestern, Dartmouth, MIT.

GPA (top LAC) - 3.5 overall, history major. My math/sciences GPA is lower, closer to 3.1
GMAT - 760
Work experience summary - 1.5 years investment banking top firm (nyc), 4 years PE at well-respected/unique entrepreneurial firm with a lot of internal leadership opportunities (not nyc).
Outside of work - Founder of non-profit charitable organization providing sponsorships (funds/gear) to underprivileged extreme sports athletes around the world (surfers, bikers, skaters, etc.). I'm a sponsored mountain biker/skier.
Goal of MBA - Been offered partner track at firm, but want to use MBA to raise a search fund to buy/run a company after graduating. Use that to create track record to found an investment firm.
Recommendations - will be extremely strong from partners at my firm
Native american background - not an official tribal member, but it's part of my family's cultural heritage and my identity.

What should I do to counter my low GPA? Would it be worthwhile to take a business-related course or two at a local college and ace it?

Thanks for the input.
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by Bryant@VeritasPrep » Tue Jun 19, 2012 7:16 am
You shouldn't need to do anything to remedy your GPA since your GMAT will more than indicate aptitude. Plus, your UG GPA was not bad. Generally if it's over 3.0 it requires no apology. I wouldn't waste the time taking more classes since it wouldn't be additive to your profile and it's time better spent focused on the application.

Looks like you have good leadership demonstrated and it's also good that you have been offered partner track (which will assumably be corroborated by your recos). Very unique angle with Native American Indian background especially if you have cultural ties and associations (even if not official--if it's genuine and it means something to you it can help you differentiate). Let us know if you need help pulling it together.
Bryant Michaels
MBA Admissions Consultant


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