Profile evaluation.

[mstan]

Hi Stacy,

I would appreciate if you could do a profile evaluation.


1) 1st GMAT in Nov 2010 640, 2nd Attempt Jan 2011 690 Q48 V35
2) Undergraduate GPA from Ohio State Univeristy 3.81
3) Background - I work as a financial analyst at a healthcare company and I'm planning to use my MBA to continue on the path of corporate finance and preferably transition into a managerial role and eventually specializing in corporate development.
4) 27, female

I'm planning to apply to the UCLA and USC part time programs but I also would like to give Northwestern a try. If I were to get accepted to Northwestern (which I know is going to be tough, I would probably pursue a consulting path preferably in the heathcare industry)

I would appreciate if you could tell me my chances as the above mentioned schools.

Thanks!

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear mstan,

Based on the very limited information in your post, you appear to have a competitive profile for the part-time programs at UCLA and USC. The decisions will factor in the entirety of your application, so use the essays, recommendations and interviews to strengthen your case for admission. I do think you should consider applying to Kellogg if you believe the school is a good match for you. Time is of the essence, however, as the admissions cycle is on its way down. Your GPA is high and your 690 GMAT is within range there. Be sure to use all of the application components to your advantage to give yourself the best chance--but do submit as soon as possible.

Good luck,
Lisa

[mstan]

Thanks for your feedback Lisa! I'm not sure if you were aware that I was referring to the full time program at Northwestern when I wrote my message. The only round that I can possibly apply right now is Round 3, which is probably the most competitive.

My background is mainly in corporate finance in a healthcare company (mid size about 2000 employees) and i'm looking to make a switch to consulting. My level is an analyst but I directly report to the VP, so I work closely with him and upper management. I've worked and in some cases led several special projects that resulted in huge cost savings for the company. I've done a bit of volunteering (feed the poor, fund raising, etc) in the past but I've stopped for a year to concentrate on my GMAT and work. Also i'm a non-US citizen (don't know if that makes any difference). Basically I'm not sure if I should spend time working on my apps if I don't stand a chance.

[Lisa Anderson]

You have a chance at these programs, but how big or small depends on many factors beyond you. For instance, how strong the other applicants are in the round you apply, how strong the applicants are in the earlier rounds, and what the school's internal goals are for the class. You can only control your application; thus you want to ensure it is as strong as possible. MBA admissions is a bit of a gamble as you cannot predict anything with certainty. If you are positive you want to start a program this fall and these programs are strong matches for you, then you should consider applying--but get your applications in as soon as you can.

Good luck,
Lisa