My profile - pls provide me pointers

[richlittl]

Dear Lisa,

I need some pointers. I understand this year's applicant pool shoots up by more than 30% and school, pls give me some pointers how to jump out from the applicant pool?

Background: Chinese American
Industry: 4 years Finance exp - Derivatives, and now Equity Investments
GPA: 3.6
GMAT: 690 (Q51, V31)
College: TOP 25
Volunteer: Many extracurricular activities, I mentioned them specifically in essays
Experience: rebuilt a team at work, demonstrated leadership and teamwork skills
Recommendation letter: My recommenders provided specific examples for my accomplishments on each category. The specific events are also mentioned in my essays.

FYI: on the optional essay, how long can it be. I am thinking about putting in a bit more about my diversified background, but also interested to write some other stories to introduce me further. Also, I asked my old manager and superior to write my recommendation letters, should I explain why I didn't ask my current manager? (only started in new job for 5 months)

The schools I am about to apply to are: Columbia, NYU, HASS, Cornell, and part time at UCLA. I know my GMAT score is not impressive, but my goal is to land the full time programs. Can you kindly let me know what other aspects should I focus more on my package

Thanks a bunch!

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear richlittl,

You have the foundation for a competitive application. However, what makes the difference for any applicant is how well he/she presents a compelling case for admission over the competition. You must convey a strong rationale for why you want a MBA and how the MBA, coupled with your past experience, will facilitate your desired career path post-MBA.

In terms of your recommenders, the two you selected should suffice if you have only worked for your current boss for less than a year. You will probably want to note why you did not ask your current boss in your application. Likewise, the optional essay usually has a restriction of page length or words, so the school will define the length. However, you should be aware the optional essay is not viewed as a forum for you to write about anything you desire, but is viewed by most schools as a forum to be used to explain a weakness or a potential concern in your application. There are schools that will allow you to write an additional essay of your choosing, so just be sure you check the application instructions to make sure you follow them.

Finally, I would suggest adding at least one safety school to your list of schools. Top 20 schools are highly competitive and it is always good to have an alternative business school as an option.

Good luck,
Lisa