Hi, I took the GMAT two weeks ago, and after taking it easy since then, I figure it's time to start gearing up for the application process. I have a few questions I'd like to run by you guys:
Background:
Male, Chinese, 25 (26 by target Fall 09 start date)
GMAT/ GPA:
710/ 3.33 from USC
GPA is lower than I'd like it to be, but the bright side, all 300/400 level and core business classes are solid A's and B+'s.
Work Experience:
Been working for a little over four years--3 in banking and 1 in asset management. Will have five years+ of work experience by Fall 2009. CFA charterholder (by the way, does the charter even hold any weight in the MBA admission process?)
References:
One solid letter from former supervisor at bank and second letter, having to come from current employer, will not be as great (at least not yet, since I've only been here a year). It'll probably look odd if both my letters come from last employer and none from current, right?
Extra:
Unfortunately, this is my weakest spot and I think the area where paying for the services SBC or some other consultant might be worth the money--differentiating myself. I'm reading Montauk's book right now, but some of the stuff I guess doesn't really apply to my situation (for example, there's a sample essay from an army sergeant?? I'm just one of them "folks"). Did lots of clubs in high school and college, but nothing since then, ie, non profit, volunteer work, nothing like that. Also did not start my own company. Go me!
Target Schools: (in order of preference)
-Wharton
-Haas
-NYU/UCLA
-Good ol' Marshall
With this condensed information, do you think these schools are within reach? The Wharton and Haas that is... and what feedback can you provide?
Lastly, on a side note, what would you say is the added benefit of a full time program vs. part time, aside from the networking and recruiting? My point is I can probably get into UCLA part time, but might be on the cusp of getting into the full time program and may need additional resources to better my chances (your services). At the end of the day, isn't an Anderson MBA still an Anderson MBA, whether full time or part time? It's not like that'll be explicitly stated on resumes. It seems like the only reason to go to a part time program is financially related..
Thanks!
Background:
Male, Chinese, 25 (26 by target Fall 09 start date)
GMAT/ GPA:
710/ 3.33 from USC
GPA is lower than I'd like it to be, but the bright side, all 300/400 level and core business classes are solid A's and B+'s.
Work Experience:
Been working for a little over four years--3 in banking and 1 in asset management. Will have five years+ of work experience by Fall 2009. CFA charterholder (by the way, does the charter even hold any weight in the MBA admission process?)
References:
One solid letter from former supervisor at bank and second letter, having to come from current employer, will not be as great (at least not yet, since I've only been here a year). It'll probably look odd if both my letters come from last employer and none from current, right?
Extra:
Unfortunately, this is my weakest spot and I think the area where paying for the services SBC or some other consultant might be worth the money--differentiating myself. I'm reading Montauk's book right now, but some of the stuff I guess doesn't really apply to my situation (for example, there's a sample essay from an army sergeant?? I'm just one of them "folks"). Did lots of clubs in high school and college, but nothing since then, ie, non profit, volunteer work, nothing like that. Also did not start my own company. Go me!
Target Schools: (in order of preference)
-Wharton
-Haas
-NYU/UCLA
-Good ol' Marshall
With this condensed information, do you think these schools are within reach? The Wharton and Haas that is... and what feedback can you provide?
Lastly, on a side note, what would you say is the added benefit of a full time program vs. part time, aside from the networking and recruiting? My point is I can probably get into UCLA part time, but might be on the cusp of getting into the full time program and may need additional resources to better my chances (your services). At the end of the day, isn't an Anderson MBA still an Anderson MBA, whether full time or part time? It's not like that'll be explicitly stated on resumes. It seems like the only reason to go to a part time program is financially related..
Thanks!












