Quick questions on profile

[masapo98]

GPA: 3.55 / 3.76 (Overall / Major)
UG: Boston College - Carroll School of Management
UG Major: Finance, Info Systems, Philosophy
GMAT: Pending
Age: 24

Work:
- 1 year UBS Investment Bank (Technology Investment Banking). Top bucket bonus (~top 7.5%).
- 1 year Private Equity (Focus on mid-market tech buyouts). $1bn fund. Youngest associate hire of firm history (firm has been around for 17 years)

Other:
- K-12 at an international school (which is a big reason for wanting to go back to school. would like to increase exposure to western education)
- Korean American
- Male

Questions
1. How long should I wait before applying to HBS/Wharton/GSB
2. Are these schools beyond my reach if I apply for 2010?
3. What should my target GMAT range be? (e.g., 680-730+?)

I am thinking about applying for 2010 admission. (too early?)
Any other feedback would be much appreciated.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear masapo98,

1. How long should I wait before applying to HBS/Wharton/GSB
You need to wait as long as you feel you need to before you are ready for business school. Most schools like to see at least 2 years of professional experience after graduating from college. You will need to weigh where you are in your career against your goals to determine the right time.

2. Are these schools beyond my reach if I apply for 2010?
Since you do not have a complete profile, I cannot really answer this question. I believe all top 10 programs are a reach for any candidate, regardless of profile. These schools are highly selective with large applicant pools and usually have internal goals that they try to hit each year. Many folks seem to look good in terms of GMAT/GPA/work experience on the surface, but ultimately do not get into a top 10 business school. That is why your research on schools and time spent on your applications is critical.

3. What should my target GMAT range be? (e.g., 680-730+?)
Your target GMAT range should be the best score possible for you. Obviously, anything in the 700s would give you the best advantage, but that is not to say score a 650 would necessarily rule out a school.

Best of luck,
Lisa