Planning to apply this fall, please evaluate.

[Tim7332]

I'm taking the GMAT next month and I anticipate scoring between 720-740.

I would like to go to an IVY league program, or a top ranked MBA/JD joint degree program, but I have some concerns about my application.

Could you let me know if you think I'm dreaming and if so, what programs are more realistic?

I graduated from Chapman University, local private school with a GPA of approx 2.8

I don't have many extra curricular activities to point to, other than being a member of mensa. I pretty much worked and had fun with friends in college.

Also, my job history might be a negative. I worked in the mortgage and real estate industry after graduating college because of the availability of jobs in this area shortly after graduation. I did soon thereafter get my broker's license and can point to some management experience because of this, but when the industry went belly up, I switched careers by going into accounting. I don't know how the admissions people will look at this.

Should I join any clubs or organizations this close to applying? Will it make a difference?

Schools I plan to apply to include Harvard (long shot I know), UPenn, Northwestern, USC, UCLA.

Let me know what you think. If it would help to wait another year when I'll have my CPA license and possibly more extra curriculars to point to I would.

I also plan to submit my essays to Stacy for editing. What would this cost approx?

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear Tim,

Changing jobs is not a negative as long as it the change makes sense. If you can give your rationale for why you switched to accounting and demonstrate success on the new career path, then it should not be a negative. With your GPA being a 2.8, you might want to use the optional essay to explain why you did not perform better. Even if your reason is you had a great time, it is better to own up to your immaturity and explain how you are in a different place now. A GMAT of 720+ will help to balance out your GPA, but I think a short paragraph addressing your GPA would be helpful.

As for the extracurriculars, it is not worth doing something just to have something down. If there is an organization or community event that you are interested in, then that would be a great choice. Having some leadership experience outside of your professional life is always beneficial to both you and your applications.

Thanks for inquiring on our services. I will kindly direct you to our website at www.stacyblackman.com for detail on pricing and services.

Good luck,
Lisa

[Tim7332]

do you have any thoughts on the schools I mentioned? Are they unrealistic?

[Lisa Anderson]

If your GMAT is at or above a 720, then those schools are not unrealistic as long as your overall application is strong. They are some of the most competitive for admission, so it is imperative your present your application in the best light.

Best of luck,
Lisa