Break in the job

[clar]

Hi Lisa/Stacy,

I have this nagging question in my mind for quite sometime now - will a one-year gap in my work ex reflect negatively in my admission package?

I have a total of 3 years of work experience and i have taken a break from work to strictly prepare for GMAT and apply to b - schools. I intend to apply for the session starting 2010 fall. Do you think the break in my professional experience will cause me a serious harm? Also, can you suggest me ways to mitigate its effect ?


Thanks!

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear clar,

How this break in employment will be viewed will vary amongst schools. Most schools in the US will not see taking time off to prepare applications and take the GMAT as a reason to leave a job. Many people continue to work while writing applications and preparing for the GMAT. Ultimately, you need to do what you feel is best for you. I would just caution you to be prepared to explain what you plan to do during this time and have a solid rationale for why you made this choice.

Good luck,
Lisa

[clar]

Thanks for the feedback Lisa!

I would like to get your perspective on one more thing - Do you think if i join a non-profit (once I am done with the test) would be enough to mitigate the harm that the gap has done? My previous work ex is in IT and i am so not keen to continue in the same field. Moreover I am looking at a complete career switch after my MBA.

Thanks once again!

[Lisa Anderson]

I think you have an opportunity to pursue work (whether paid or unpaid) that is related to what you want to do after business school. If you think the nonprofit would provide some experience that would be beneficial for your career goals, then it would be a good choice. You do want to have something on your resume during that time, so it is a great chance to do something like work for a nonprofit or with an international organization overseas.

Good luck,
Lisa

[clar]

muchas gracias Lisa! That perfectly answers my query!!!