ASU Part Time, but 530.... oh no!

[Ihatethegmat]

Stacy –

Long time reader, it is hard to believe I am finally about to apply to business school. I appreciate the work you do for this forum. Could you please assess my profile for my application to ASU’s evening program. I am concerned about my GMAT and am having anxiety over this. I know you will tell me to retake it, but I spent 3 solid months and $1100 for a review course that obviously didn’t help. Is there any hope?

GPA- 3.29, Accounting, Northern Arizona University
GMAT – 530 (Don’t have exact scores, but verbal was higher, scored 5.5/6 on essay portion)

Resume- Graduated May 2008, Elected Student Body President @ NAU, Served 3 years as a member of a non-profit board of directors. Currently work for a large fortune 500 defense contractor in Finance (Started July 2008).

Volunteer for Boys State in the Summer, Awarded President’s Prize, Gold Axe award at NAU (Highest Graduating Senior Recognition only 6 out of 3000 received this award.)

Letters of Rec. – 1 from immidiate supervisor, 1 from his manager, 1 from dean of students @ NAU.

Applying to ASU evening program, company is paying for it.

Do I stand a chance? This is an extremely abridged version of my resume. Thanks again!

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear ihatethegmat,

I think you should still apply despite the GMAT score. While your score is not ideal, you do have some other strong aspects to your profile. The question will be on your quantitative aptitude and I would argue that your work experience and undergraduate performance demonstrate your ability to handle the coursework. I would also encourage you to reach out and connect with someone in the admissions office (if you haven't already) to try and gain a "champion" in the office.

If you feel you might be able to increase your score, it might be worth taking it one more time. This will demonstrate commitment on your part. Focus your prep on the areas that gave you the most trouble and remember to keep moving through the questions.

Good luck,
Lisa

[Ihatethegmat]

Lisa-

Thank you for taking the time to respond to my post. Your advice was very helpful. I really appreciate it.