Hey guys,
I'm interested in honing a list of schools to visit this spring in advance of applying in the fall. I'd really appreciate some feedback as to whether or not I'm a viable candidate. Here is my background:
-University of Florida Graduate (top 50 college in US News).
Major: Business Administration - Marketing. GPA: 3.5
-Work Experience:
1 year in rotational management development program at publicly traded company
2 years at middle market investment bank as an IB analyst (top decile-ranking of analysts both years)
2 years (at matriculation) at middle market venture capital firm
-GMAT: 700 Total; (59% - Q; 99%-V); 6.0 AWA
-Extra Cur: President of 100 man fraternity in undergrad; founded philanthropy benefiting MDA in undergrad; 3 years volunteering in at-risk schools tutoring middle schoolers about financial topics while working; guest lecturer at University of South Florida on VC/PE to graduate level class (3 lectures) while working
I'm concerned that my low quant score on the GMAT is going to hold me back. Will my quant-heavy background in IB and VC make up for this? The score was a fluke, but I no longer have time to study for and re-take the test.
Schools I am most interested in targeting:
-Northwestern
-Columbia (Will ED help?)
-Duke
-Yale
I appreciate the help. If I can approach my selection process intelligently now, I intend to reach out to a consultant in the fall to help refine my personal message. The help is greatly appreciated.
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Quant Background w/ Low Quant Score
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Eliot
- MBA Admissions Consultant
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Hi dseider,
Thank you for your post!
You should be competitive at these programs, but there are a few issues you will want to consider.
Your overall GMAT score is on par for the schools you have listed. However, since you do not have time to retake the exam, the quant score should be addressed in a short, optional essay. You will need to highlight evidence (e.g. work experience, undergraduate / other quant coursework) to prove that you have the quant skills to handle the rigorous curriculum of an MBA program. You will need a more sophisticated reason than the score being a "fluke," e.g. that you do not take standardized tests well. Overall, though, the total score of 700 will still be competitive.
In regards to your extracurricular activities, it would be great if your volunteer work is still ongoing. You will need to highlight activities outside of work to showcase that you have well-rounded interests and are engaged in your community. In regards to your undergraduate activities, your demonstrated leadership is a nice base. You will want to stay focused on your community initiatives through your fraternity.
Overall, you have competitive stats and a healthy amount of work experience. However, you will be facing applicants who have pursued majors in business and performed very well in these programs-often higher-tiered universities. While your undergraduate academics are solid, they will not necessarily help you to stand out from other applicants with similar backgrounds. In terms of your work experience, it should assure the adcom of your quantitative skills; however, keep in mind that they will also be looking for evidence of your direct management and leadership experience, as well as a sense of your quantified impact. So, these are details that you will want to gather.
It's great that you plan to visit the schools; you should bring out the details of your visits in the applications, as these efforts will show your passion for the given programs. In regards to CBS, yes, applying Early Decision would help.
When you are ready to start your application, please contact us directly at: https://www.clearadmit.com/services/free-consultation/
Thank you for your post!
You should be competitive at these programs, but there are a few issues you will want to consider.
Your overall GMAT score is on par for the schools you have listed. However, since you do not have time to retake the exam, the quant score should be addressed in a short, optional essay. You will need to highlight evidence (e.g. work experience, undergraduate / other quant coursework) to prove that you have the quant skills to handle the rigorous curriculum of an MBA program. You will need a more sophisticated reason than the score being a "fluke," e.g. that you do not take standardized tests well. Overall, though, the total score of 700 will still be competitive.
In regards to your extracurricular activities, it would be great if your volunteer work is still ongoing. You will need to highlight activities outside of work to showcase that you have well-rounded interests and are engaged in your community. In regards to your undergraduate activities, your demonstrated leadership is a nice base. You will want to stay focused on your community initiatives through your fraternity.
Overall, you have competitive stats and a healthy amount of work experience. However, you will be facing applicants who have pursued majors in business and performed very well in these programs-often higher-tiered universities. While your undergraduate academics are solid, they will not necessarily help you to stand out from other applicants with similar backgrounds. In terms of your work experience, it should assure the adcom of your quantitative skills; however, keep in mind that they will also be looking for evidence of your direct management and leadership experience, as well as a sense of your quantified impact. So, these are details that you will want to gather.
It's great that you plan to visit the schools; you should bring out the details of your visits in the applications, as these efforts will show your passion for the given programs. In regards to CBS, yes, applying Early Decision would help.
When you are ready to start your application, please contact us directly at: https://www.clearadmit.com/services/free-consultation/
Eliot Ingram
Clear Admit, LLC
[email protected]
215 568 2590
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Clear Admit, LLC
[email protected]
215 568 2590
Stay Informed with Clear Admit!
Read our Blog for daily MBA admissions tips and updates.
Follow us on Twitter for breaking b-school news.
Download our Publications on MBA programs and admissions strategy.
Visit our MBA Admissions Wiki to read and share application insights.
