Profile Evaluation Request

[agoyal2]

I belong to one of the most overrepresented groups in the global MBA applicant pool (IIM - Indian IT Male). Following is a brief summary of my profile:

1. Experience - 6+ Years in IT in global IT Giants
2. International Exposure - 9 Months
3. GPA: Could not find a reliable conversion method (Percent: 71%)
4. GMAT: Q-50, V-28, Total: 730 (AWA 5.5)
5. Extra Curricular; Weak
6. Social / Community Service: Weak
7. Recommendations: Can get good ones

I am targeting a full time MBA program starting Fall 2010. I have not decided on the B-schools yet but following are some of the schools I would consider:

1. INSEAD
2. University of Chicago: Booth
3. NYU Stern
4. Indian School of Business, Hyderabad
5. University of Cambridge: Judge

What do you think are my chances? Am I shooting too high? I am interested in General Management and Strategy. From what I have heard, it gets really difficult to make your application stand out amongst all the applications received simply because this would be a very common profile in the applicant pool. Any help in what kind of schools should I focus on and how can I differentiate myself would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear agoyal2,

I think you have a shot at the schools on your list, but you are right that you need to find a way to distinguish yourself from similar applicants. Think about your life--not just your professional experience--and what interesting, impactful experiences you have had. Also, try to focus your resume on your managerial and transferable skills, staying away from the technical aspects of what you do. Finally, you might broaden your school list a bit to schools ranked in the 15-30 range for safety school options.

Good luck,
Lisa

[agoyal2]

Hey Lisa.. Thanks for your valuable inputs.. I will definitely expand my list and add a few 'safety' schools.