Stanford Material? - *see profile

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Stanford Material? - *see profile

by bigeater1 » Mon May 18, 2009 1:54 pm
Hi Stacy/Lisa,

Just wanted your opinion on whether or not I would be a competitive candidate for Stanford GSB. It is my top choice, but based on my somewhat unique background, I want to know whether I would be considered a "fit" in the eyes of their adcom.

I am taking the GMAT in June and am confident that I can get around 750 based on practices. So assuming I do, the rest of my profile is as follows:

GPA: 2.7 as a Science major at a UC ('04). This, is my largest hurdle, but I'm hoping a high GMAT will help nullify.

Entrepreneur: 4-5 years as a small business entrepreneur, starting and running a number of my own businesses, including retail, restaurant, real estate.

Other Work Exp: Freelance digital video production, Also worked 1 yr as an Assistant Media Planner for an ad agency, and 4mo's as an Associate Producer for a Television network. Have also acted in LA, directed, and written for stage and screen.

Community: Years of volunteer experience with community arts organizations. Have facilitated workshops/seminars with under-privileged youth interested in media/arts. Have participated in and documented a medical mission in the Philippines.

Goal: Start a media company.

I am looking to apply this fall for class of 2012, and am considering taking quantitative classes, and utilizing professional admissions consultants if necessary.

Thank you for your time. It is much appreciated.
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by Lisa Anderson » Tue May 19, 2009 7:58 am
Dear bigeater1,

Without knowing your GMAT score, it is hard to say whether or not you will be competitive at Stanford. In addition to having a high GMAT, your application must provide a compelling case for admission and convey a solid rationale for going to business school in relation to your past experience and future career goals. Based on your post, there are some interesting things in your background. However, you will need an above average GMAT to mitigate your below average GPA. A few quant courses might also help, especially if you did not take any or did not do well in your quant coursework in college. Finally, it is impossible to know whether or not you are a "fit" at any school without knowing more about you and what the school is looking for in its class in any given year. The best you can do is present the strongest possible application and establish a rapport with the admissions office to put a face to your application.

Best of luck,
Lisa
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by bigeater1 » Tue May 19, 2009 6:17 pm
Thanks for the feedback Lisa!

Now assuming I do get a GMAT above the Stanford average of 720/730... do you see any aspects of my profile that might be a disqualifier or significant obstacle? (other than GPA)

Also, for a school like Stanford, typically what GMAT score do you think I should shoot for in order to counter my low GPA and to demonstrate my my quantitative aptitude/intellectual ability?

Thanks so much for your help!