Ask Stacy Blackman

Hello Amy/Stacy...i have been reviewing some of the advice you have given other poeple on this forum, and I think its great that you guys are doing this. I was hoping you could give me some feedback on my profile.
Here it is:

-2.65 Overall GPA from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. Graduated in Industrial Engineering
-710 GMAT (47Q, 40V)
-Started career with a startup company (still with the company). Took job in Ardmore, OK to help build, commision, and operate a developemental plant. Became leader in construction and operations of plant.
-Was moved to Dallas, TX to help design another facility. Became lead engineer for material handling systems.
-Promoted to lead and kickoff international office in India. Have spent the last year traveling to India getting the office up and running.
-Five years of experience overall.
-Now I want to get my MBA!

I have a miserable transcript from my undergrad. I was wondering if i was still game at the top ten colleges? I was hoping MIT, Wharton, Kellogg. And then UT-Austin, and Georgetown as backups.

Does this make sense or am i aiming too high? Your help would be greatly appreciated.

Hi VIP,

If you have time, it may be worth taking classes now to build an "alternate transcript." Taking classes now and getting A's shows you now have the maturity to study and succeed in school. You will also need to explain your poor GPA in undergrad. Often if it's just due to youthful lack of focus, it's best to explain that and provide examples of how you have changed since then.

It sounds like you have stellar work experience. Many applicants have one or more weaknesses in their background, and it's not necessarily a dealbreaker for a top school.

Good luck!

Amy