Stacy, am I in need of a reality check?

[3rd ACR]

Hi Stacy,

Could you please evaluate my profile?

Aiming for MBA class of 2013.

Age: 28
Gender: Male
Nationality: white/non-hispanic

GPA : 2.3, Texas A&M University. BS Political Science.
GMAT : 540 (First attempt)

Work experience:

Served 7 years in U.S. Army as an officer making the Rank of Captain. Served two tours in Iraq, totaling 27 months of leadership experience in combat and earning two bronze stars. While deployed to Iraq, I commanded a Battery of 142 men and stayed in command for a total of 18 months. While deployed, I executed over 214 patrols and was responsible for stimulating the economies of two major cities in southern iraq through targeted business grants resulting in a peaceful security situation and quantifiably reduced unemployment rate.

MAJOR area of concern:

Both my GMAT score and dismal GPA are the areas of concern. I'm at a crossroads where I need to know if attending a top 100 MBA program is in the realm of possibility for me. I wish to know so I can swallow it and move on instead of wasting countless hours preparing applications in hopes of a impossible outcome.

Career goals:

Immediately after B school, I'd like to work in general management for a fortune 500 company, using my problem solving and decision making skills to add value to the company.

School choices:

Is there even a school out there that would give me a shot?

Any incite no matter how frank would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you in advance.

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear 3rd ACR,

First of all, thank you for your service. To answer your question, yes, there are schools that will welcome your application--the tough part will be finalizing the school list. While your GMAT and GPA are concerning, there are many positives in your background as well, namely your leadership and military experience. I would suggest targeting schools that have identified themselves as military-friendly and where the GMAT average is at/below 650. You will want to take advantage of the optional essay/additional information statement to make your case for how you will succeed in the classroom, especially quantitative coursework. While you need to take the time to submit a quality application package, time is of the essence, so you do want to get your applications in as soon as possible. Finally, you might consider working with a consultant to help with determining your application strategy and refining your essays.

Best of luck,
Lisa