Dual Citizen - USA & Poland - effect on applications?

[martinz425]

Hey guys, I was born in Europe, but am a naturalized citizen in the USA. I hold both US and Polish citizenship and am fluent in both languages. I went to elementary school through university in the states, so you can say I'm pretty Americanized though. My application would also obviously show all of my work history and schooling being in the USA.

I have the work experience, gpa and gmat to be competitive at some of the top 10 schools. Any thoughts of how/if I should use this dual citizenship to my advantage by applying as a Polish citizen instead of as a US citizen since there aren't that many MBA applicants from Poland? Or would it not really matter or be a detriment to my app?

thanks

[tmino]

I think it would be misleading if you only applied as a Polish applicant, given that you've lived most of your life in the US and feel mostly American. But definitely also mention your Polish citizenship in your application. B-schools love diverse applicants and should you get accepted they will probably count you towards their international student population to make their program look better in terms of diversity. A large part of the 30% or so international students at US b-schools actually reflect your case: They hold another passport or have a green card and have lived in the US for a large part of their life.