Hello elishaks,

Thank you for your post!

As you may be aware, there are several elements of your candidacy that you'll need to consider for a successful MBA admissions process. Let's start with your academics. While a 3.3 is an acceptable GPA, it falls below the typical 3.5 average at top programs. Moreover, the fact that you attended a second tier university will put more weight on the GMAT. You will need to score a 700+ on the GMAT (with an 80%+ in each section) to strengthen your academic profile and assure the adcom that you could handle the rigorous quantitative coursework. It looks like Global Studies at UCSB did not involve much quantitative coursework, so you could even start trying to build an alternative transcript to showcase your abilities.

It looks like you have been making progress in your career, which is exactly what adcoms will want to see. You'll want to be sure to highlight your leadership experience and quantified impact. Hopefully, you can do the same for your work with the local non-profit. Keep in mind that the adcoms like well-rounded applicants, so you will also want to consider how your other community leadership and casual interests can come into play.

It's also nice that you have a framework for your goals, but I encourage you to flesh this out even further. Consider the impact you want to have, and go so far as to defining your position as well as identifying 2-3 firms you would target and why.

When you are ready to start compiling your applications, please contact us directly at https://www.clearadmit.com/services/free-consultation/