Question about the quality of my experience.

[LV15]

Planning to take the gmat in August and my target score is high 600's. Planning to apply to UT-Austin (average gmat is 660 and gpa 3.3), University of Houston (average gmat 600 and gpa 3.2) and UTSA (average gmat 600 and 3.2). My undergrade is from UT-Pan American with a GPA of 3.334.

I have 4 and half years of work experience...1 and a half as a bank examiner with Comptroller of the Currency and 3 and a half as credit risk analyst with a $4B regional bank in Texas. My question is, how valuable will my work experience be, in the eyes of admission committees, given the recent banking and credit crisis?

Thank you in advance for your input.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear LV15,

The industry and functional role you work in is neither a positive nor negative--what matters is what you have done during your tenure in your job(s). Admissions committees look for quality work experience, regardless of industry/company: have you progressed in responsibility? have you been promoted at an average/faster than average pace? have you gained a depth of knowledge in your field? do you have a track record of accomplishments? have you added value to your employers? So, be sure to convey the quality of your experience in your resume and essays and pick recommenders who can corroborate your accomplishments and contributions.

Good luck,
Lisa