Profile Evaluation

[smahr11]

Thanks in advance for taking the time to evaluate my profile. Could you possibly
(1) Evaluate my profile along with my chances at schools targeted?
(2) Suggest some areas to improve on before applying and some other schools to consider?

For reference, I am thinking of applying for Fall 2014 matriculation and I am a white male.

Education- BS Biomedical Engineering w/ Emphasis in Mechanical from top 20 Engineering Program GPA: 2.9 Major GPA: 3.1. Absolutely was not prepared for college (study habits, etc.) and had a 2.4 in my Freshman year. Improved after that and had a 3.4 my final and toughest semester.

GMAT- 730 (Q: 49, V:41, AWA: 5.0)

Work Experience: Current Position is as Analyst in F500 Corp Finance and have received a promotion in my 1 year here, before that I had 1 year exp as Design Engineer at small Tech/Defense firm. Also have 2 summers of boutique Private Equity internship.

International Work Experience: Not a whole lot right now. But may be traveling soon to Asia and/or Central America for meetings.

ECs:
-Involved in small volunteering opportunities in college
-Now involved with Boys & Girls Club as well as Acumen Fund-like non-profit

Target Schools: Wharton, Tuck, Booth, Ross, Columbia, Cornell, Kenan-Flagler

Goals: Healthcare/Biotech Investment Banking or possibly Corp Dev

[Stacey Oyler]

Hi,

Thanks for your post. Let's look at each are of your profile:

Academics:

Your undergrad GPA (while on an upward trajectory) could be a red flag for the adcom. Your challenging major will certainly help to offset any concerns they have, but it should be noted that you will need to address your low GPA in an optional essay in each application. Thankfully you have a solid GMAT score which will prove you are up for the rigorous courses in bschool.

Professional experience:

While it looks like you successful changed careers, your overall full time experience of two years is a bit low for all the schools on your list. Is there a reason you want to apply to bschool now instead of in a year or two? It might behoove you to work a little longer and build up your professional experience in order to help offset concerns that adcom may have your low.

EC's:

Keep up your involvement with the B&G club. Long term involvement in an activity is a plus for your application. Also look for leadership opportunities outside of work since it might be challenging to get them at the office.

My advice is to stay on the course you are on now since it is a good path. I would strongly consider waiting another year to apply since it will only strengthen your application.

Best,

Stacey