So it seemed laughable for me to even apply to top business schools. My GPA was a 3.2, and blemished with several D's and F's. My GMAT a 610--the quant on only the 48th percentile.

But I did, and got into two 2nd tier schools, and am now waitlisted at my top choice: Cornell. I have been enamored by their program since I first started looking into MBAs, but I didn't think I had a chance. I applied after the last deadline, to make things tighter. But somehow I got called for an interview.

The interview was fantastic. My interviewr introduced me to the admissions director, and two other members of adcom. But I was waitlisted--its a competetive year and I applied late.

My primary weakness is my quant score. Im trying to retake the GMAT, and I'll give it my best shot, but I know there's no guarantee it will go up. So how else can I stand out, and get moved from the waitlist?

I have a sordid history--juvie hall as a teen, abusive background. Worked my way through school, started my own company. That's what got me where I am. But I need just a little bit more?

Any advice would be much appreciated. This would be my biggest dream come true, and I think I can go out there and make a difference if I get this MBA.

Thanks