Profile Evaluation (low GPA)

[sjo]

I was wondering how likely it is for me to get into a top 20 school with this profile:

GPA: 2.9
Major: Computer Engineering
Undergrad: University of California, Irvine
GMAT: 710 Q:46 V:41 AWA: 5.5

Work Experience:
I have worked for 3 years as a software engineer at a small unknown telecommunications company. Not a lot of business related work experience, but I do have some international work experience (worked in India for about 6 months).

Extracurricular: Just some church related community service.

Personal Facts: worked 20+ hours throughout college, single parent family.

I would love to go to a top 10 school, but I know my work experience and my low GPA are holding me back.

I am planning to take a statistics course during the summer to boost my transcript.

The schools I am most interested in are: Haas, Anderson, Duke, Columbia, and Tepper.

Thanks!

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear sjo,

Since admissions decisions are based on more than just the GMAT and GPA, I think you have a shot if you submit a strong, overall application. Your essays, recommendations, and interviews are critical to the ultimate decision as these components give you another chance to shine. In essence, you need to make your case for a seat in the class and distinguish yourself from applicants with similar backgrounds. Be sure to convey your successful leadership and teamwork experiences in your essays as well as a solid rationale for getting your MBA in relation to your past experiences and future career goals. Finally, I would encourage you to add at least one safety school to the mix as a backup plan. It is possible you could be at one of your top choices with a great application, but it is always good to hedge when it comes to business school admissions.

Best of luck,
Lisa