Unique Circumstances....What Are My Chances?

[daniels11]

So I have took a very nontraditional path. I am 27 and have had a slew of family and personal issues that have caused me to currently be without a degree. I have been working since I graduated high school and took night classes at a "public ivy" in the midwest. I have almost 100 credit hours from there. Sadly, my GPA was a meager 2.8 there due to working about 60-70 hours a week while I was taking classes. On top of that, some unimaginable family issues arose that eventually resulted in me moving away and leaving school. I have recently started taking online classes through Kansas State to finish up. I find it embarrassing that I am taking courses online, but it makes the most since given my current situation. I have a lot on my plate right now as I am also studying for the level 3 CFA exam. I work as a trader at a discount broker, which is not the most glamorous job in the world but I think it would qualify as decent work experience. I have been promoted twice there in a little under 3 years. I volunteer at 2 different non-profits and may get involved in another. I also have been studying for the GMAT and have took 3 practice tests (730,680,710). I expect to get around 700 and my cumulative GPA should be a little above 3.0 when I finally finish (Fall 2013). I live in Texas and I am shooting for Cox, McCombs or Jones. I would also like to apply to a couple of top 20's out of curiosity. Do you think I will have a shot at these schools given my GPA and unusual path? Is there anything else that I should be doing to better my chances?

[Jim@StratusPrep]

You have a shot at these schools, and your story will help you stand out in the application process. Also, consider part-time programs, they tend to be a little easier to get into.