Profile Please

[ssimon]

Hi Stacy-
Here is my profile. Please comment.

Education:

University of Pennsylvania
Degree: Molecular Biology, Class of 2003
GPA: 3.34
GMAT: 730 (V42,Q48), AWA 5.0 (I took the GMAT once before, and got an AWA of 6)

I worked in scientific research for my first 8 months out of school, before deciding to get into business. I then worked for a year in a sales position, and then for the last two years with an internet startup. I left that position recently, and am currently interviewing for positions with other tech startups.

I would like to apply to: Columbia, Harvard, UCLA, University of Washington (and perhaps others).

Can you comment on how I should proceed from here? What are my chances at these schools?

(P.S. I am upset that I got a 5 on my AWA on this latest GMAT attempt. Should I be worried about this at all? I took the GMAT previously, and did not do well (580), however I did get a 6 on the AWA that time). I would consider my writing skills to be excellent - I got nervous on one essay because time was running out and made some mistakes on this latest attempt.)

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear ssimon,

Your overall GMAT score of 730 is great, so I would not worry much about your AWA. A 5.0 is a good AWA and does not concern me.

Like any other applicant, the way to achieve admission at top MBA programs, such as the ones you are targeting, is to put together a strong, compelling application. Your GMAT and GPA give you the academic foundation. Since I do not know much about your work experience, it is hard to make an assessment but you appear to have some solid experience. You want to highlight your leadership, teamwork, and motivation to succeed in an effective way through your resume, essays, and recommendations. Likewise, your interview is an important component for you to sell yourself to the school.

You have the tools, just use them effectively. Best of luck,
Lisa