JD/MBA profile assessment

[hooray]

Hi Lisa,

I am considering applying to an elite JD/MBA school and would like you to assess my chances. I think I have the "numbers" for admission into a competitive JD program, however I am worried that I have shortcomings for the MBA admissions part. I'm worried as coming off as a typical asian-american stats applicant with stellar grades and might be perceived as too analytical/bookish. Furthermore, given my junior level consulting position, I'm worried that I lack much leadership. For the banker/consultant type, could you provide examples of showing "leadership"? I would think in most junior level positions one does not get much management experience.

I plan on applying to joint degrees at Harvard, Stanford, Columbia, Penn, and Yale. I currently work for a top litigation/economics consulting firm and would eventually like to start my own litigation consulting company in the future. I think that by getting a JD I would understand lawyer-speak better, and an MBA would help tremendously in founding my own business.

UG: B.A. from Columbia Univ. in Economics
GPA: 3.95/4.00
GMAT: 770 [LSAT:176]
W.E: 2 full years at NERA (3 upon matriculation)
E.C: Nothing spectacular. Involved with 2 major ECs during college but have continued after graduation. Was in college orchestra and now in community orchestra. President of a homeless shelter staffing organization in college and continue to take an active role currently.
MBA Plans: Want to eventually start my own litigation consulting firm after returning to my current firm post-MBA. Or maybe join another start-up, but eventual goal is entrepreneurship.

As you can see, profile resembles a typical "bookish" candidate, and I'm worried that I might not distinguish myself from the other academics. Should I focus on easier programs such as Duke/Cornell or do you think I stand a chance?

Thank you!

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear hooray,

I think you have a chance at any school you decide to apply to for a JD/MBA. On top of some great numbers and solid work experience, you must make a compelling case for admission to distinguish yourself from the applicant pool. Thus your essays, recommendations and interviews will be integral to the ultimate decision. All of your target schools are highly selective, and while I think you have a shot at them, you might want to add at least one safety school to the mix that is outside the top 10. For applicants early in their careers like you, it is important to demonstrate leadership potential. This can be done from activities in college and your current extracurriculars. It sounds like you have evidence of leadership based on your post. Finally, you should visit these schools if you can to gain a better understanding of their cultures and programs. It will not only help you with your essays, but also help you determine your top choice.

Best of luck,
Lisa

[hooray]

Thank you very much.