Hi Stacy...my profile for comment...

[ps86651]

Hi Stacy,

I would like your evaluation of my chance of getting into a good b-school, to start September 2009.

Obviously, based on my own research, I know any admissions decision depends on the "overall package" - but just wanted to see your views anyway.

My profile:
- 27 y/o male, living in London.
- Graduated in Mathematics / Economics from the London School of Economics (GPA 3.9).
- 3 years as an investment banking analyst at Goldman Sachs (London and Hong Kong)
- 1 year as an investment banking associate at Citigroup (London)

On the extra-curricular side, I am a board member of an NGO in Seattle, as well as serving as an advisor to the Board of Directors for a Charitable Trust in India and also for a NGO in Cameroon, Africa.

On the down side (a HUGE down side) - is that I'm a poor standardised test taker, my GMAT was a 630.

I'm hoping my undergraduate degree as well as work-ex would allay any fears about my quant ability. I guess I can get a recommender to opine on that as well.

Many thanks!

[ps86651]

Hi Stacy,

I would like your evaluation of my chance of getting into a good b-school, to start September 2009.

Obviously, based on my own research, I know any admissions decision depends on the "overall package" - but just wanted to see your views anyway.

My profile:
- 27 y/o male, living in London.
- Graduated in Mathematics / Economics from the London School of Economics (GPA 3.9).
- 3 years as an investment banking analyst at Goldman Sachs (London and Hong Kong)
- 1 year as an investment banking associate at Citigroup (London)

On the extra-curricular side, I am a board member of an NGO in Seattle, as well as serving as an advisor to the Board of Directors for a Charitable Trust in India and also for a NGO in Cameroon, Africa.

On the down side (a HUGE down side) - is that I'm a poor standardised test taker, my GMAT was a 630.

I'm hoping my undergraduate degree as well as work-ex would allay any fears about my quant ability. I guess I can get a recommender to opine on that as well.

Many thanks!

** Just as an additional piece of information - this GMAT sitting is my 2nd attempt. My first was at 550.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear ps86651,

Your 630 definitely puts you in a better position and is a significant improvement. Your high GPA and quantitative/analytical work experience should help to balance out your GMAT. Of course, your essays, recommendations and interviews will also be critical to make your case for admission. As this is a competitive year, you will need to get in strong application packages as soon as possible (without compromising quality). I would think schools with GMAT averages in the 640-680 range are appropriate choices for you.

Best of luck,
Lisa