multimillion $ entrepreneur... good or bad

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multimillion $ entrepreneur... good or bad

by dominion » Tue Dec 11, 2007 11:54 pm
Hello,

A quick profile:

Target Schools: Harvard, Wharton, Oxford, Sloan
UG GPA: 3.3/4.0 Double Degree (Business Administration, English Lit.)
GMAT: >720 (testing at a greater than 720 right now)
AGE: Mid 20s
Ethnic Group: Asian (Male)

Notables:

1. built an online retailer with 2 family members. our net revenues are over $8M annually. I head up analytics, partnerships, and traffic acquisition (largely marketing).
2. built a fashion house with some friends -- major celebrities have worn our clothing (like coldplay and green day), and we have distribution at national chains (like nordstroms), etc.. revenues are in the low millions.
3. project managing a $5M retail complex for my future father in law. I oversee everything -- legal, finance, architecture, operations, engineering, contracting, insurance, etc.

*PROBLEM -- I'm working at all three of these projects concurrently. One is a major online retailer, one is a brick and mortar retail complex, and one is a fashion house... does that show a lack of focus? Does working on so many projects sound unbelievable?

*PROBLEM -- I'm in my mid 20s and don't have an engineering or consulting "pedigree". Is that undesirable? Further, do people EVEN CARE if you build a clothing company is celebrity endorsed? (by the likes of coldplay/joss stone/etc.)

*PROBLEM -- I was a cofounder of the largest student movement at my university in over 40 years (we're one of the largest public universities in the US). All told, there were about 3000 individuals involved. It, however, WAS a a religious movement (Christian)... should I mention it? If so, how?

I'd sincerely appreciate an evaluation + insight. What do you think are my chances of a late round @ Harvard, Wharton, or Oxford?

-D
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by Amy » Fri Dec 14, 2007 9:03 pm
Hi dominion,

You certainly don't need an engineering or consulting background to be accepted to business school.

I don't think your pursuits sound unfocused, I assume you are planning to use your MBA to return to the family businesses and expand or learn best practices?

Of course being a successful business manager is extremely helpful to an application for business school, since you have demonstrated management skills and leadership.

The religious factor in your group is fine, I would include the activity.

I generally advise against late rounds (if you are talking about R3). See the sticky thread on rounds for more detail.

Good luck!

Amy
Amy
Consultant
Stacy Blackman Consulting