Graphic Designer thinking of pursuing an MBA (UCLA or USC)

[ChargerxCats]

Hello,

I've been thinking about pursuing an MBA since 2008, but at that time I was unsure of my career path. I am now positive I would like to pursue an MBA and now have clarity as to where I'd like my career to go. I have not yet taken the GMAT, but plan on taking it in 2012. I know that the GMAT score is a big factor, and I'd like to hopefully score high enough to have a chance at UCLA or USC since I live in the Los Angeles area.

I currently hold two Bachelor's degrees from a state school- one in Cinema and Television (with an emphasis in Multimedia), and one in Art/Graphic Design. My cumulative GPA was around a 3.0, but it was mostly because I originally started off as Biology major in college and did not do well in some of the classes. I currently work as a full-time staff graphic designer and have been working professionally full-time since 2004. The reason I would like to pursue an MBA is because in several of the companies I've worked at, there is often a disconnect between the creative department and the marketing department. I would like to one day be in a position where I am valued since I have an understanding of both the creative and business aspect. (For example, Steve Jobs was a person who was able to combine the creative and business aspect.) I'd specifically like a concentration in marketing or international business, perhaps becoming a creative director or marketing director.

I do have a few questions regarding MBA admissions, specifically to UCLA/USC:

-Assuming I have a high enough GMAT score, will I have less of a chance being accepted into an MBA program since my educational background was on the creative end? I've tried searching the web to see if any graphic designers have ever pursued an MBA, but I haven't found any (yet).

-I have an extensive design portfolio. Should I include samples of some of my work when applying? For example, at one company I worked for, the Marketing Director heavily relied on my creativity and ideas to come up with promotional ideas--ideas that I would also design. I also did pro-bono volunteer work designing marketing materials for non-profits, and they too relied on my leadership, direction, and design skills when it came to marketing. (Will it also help that I've helped non-profits?)

-Are extra-curricular activities of any importance, and should they be mentioned? The reason I ask is because I have been playing hockey for 15 years and still currently play. Believe me when I say that I have learned quite a bit about myself in regards to leadership and teamwork, including certain times when I was captain of my team.

I know these are probably not typical questions, but I am very new to the whole process and wondering whether my chances are any better or worse than other candidates, and if perhaps my background might be something that sets me apart. Thanks!

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear ChargerxCats,

I commend you on your thorough self-reflection and research to determine that an MBA is your next step. Being focused on your future goals and why an MBA is necessary is a key component to a successful MBA application. To answer your questions:

-Assuming I have a high enough GMAT score, will I have less of a chance being accepted into an MBA program since my educational background was on the creative end?
What your degree is in neither positively nor negatively affects your chances. What matters is how you did in your coursework and, in particular, how you did in quantitative coursework. If you do not have any quant courses or very little, then you might consider taking a college algebra or calculus class as prep for the MBA program and to strengthen your app (demonstrates you can do well in a math class). MBA programs value diversity in educational backgrounds and professional experience, so having a rare path to an MBA program can be an advantage for you.

-Should I include samples of some of my work when applying? (Will it also help that I've helped non-profits?)
You should not include samples of your work. Admissions committees will not review it, and most discourage you from submitting supplementary materials. You should note on your resume the extensive work you have done with the Marketing Director and the nonprofits. Working with community organizations, like nonprofits, on a volunteer basis does add value to your application.

-Are extra-curricular activities of any importance, and should they be mentioned?
Yes and yes. You can include them on your resume, but you will also be asked in the online application form to note significant activities.

Keep up the research and visit any programs (if possible) that you are considering. Doing the leg work and giving considerable thought to why an MBA, your goals and why each school will pay off for you.

Best of luck,
Lisa