Alternate Transcript

[MBACandidate2010]

I know you mentioned that it's good to take 3-4 classes. I recently found-out that my undergrad GPA was a 2.25 due to many struggles in quantative classes. I have about 4 years of work experience w/promotion, good extracurriculars, and am striving for a 650 on the gmat. A few questions..

Will 3-4 quantative classes still suffice or are more necessary given my poor GPA? In addition to Math/Stats classes, is accounting or econ beneficial or is a finance type class better? Is it ok to take online classes at a community college? Or something like UCLA extension better since its a reputable school? I'm hoping that my poor GPA doesn't altogether eliminate me from top 20-top 40 schools.

Lastly, any insight on Thunderbird? I'm interested in the Global aspects, but just curious if you had any opinion on the program or have heard anything from others. Thanks so much!

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear MBACandidate2010,

I think 3-4 classes is sufficient to demonstrate your quantitative aptitude. If you wanted to take more business-oriented classes, I would suggest statistics, finance or accounting. These will all be great preparation for business school as well. You can take courses at a community college, the UCLA extension, or online--whatever works best for your schedule. With a strong alternative transcript and good quant score on your GMAT, you will mitigate the undergraduate GPA. The GPA, alone, is not enough to result in an automatic rejection.

Thunderbird is a great program for those that want to work in a role with international aspects. While it has garnered less attention in the US over the past 10 years, it is still highly regarded worldwide and is still a solid program. If possible, I think it is always good to visit the school to gain insight into the culture and the resources available to students.

Good luck,
Lisa