Profile evaluation : English looking for US b-school

[nomad]

Hi,

Would appreciate some feedback on my application.

Target schools are Harvard, Stanford, Wharton and would be looking at Fall 2009.

Would like feedback, specifcally around:

• My chances - are these schools within reach
  What would I most need to demonstrate in my application - what gaps do you see. How to fill said gaps.
  Should I be concerned about the US recession. Expect that some of the top business schools will start adopting US first approach.

Background.
I am 29 years old, English guy living in Australia. I am married and my wife and I have recently had our first child.


Just took the GMAT and got a 760 (Q48,V47) and am awaiting the AWA but would expect 5-ish or so.

My background is in Mathematics. I studied at Imperial College in London. I did well in University, expecially in final years, and graduated with first class honours and a gold medal for exam results.

I worked through most of university to support myself but did take part in some extracurricular activities, mostly debating.

Professional background
At university realised I quite liked business after spending a summer working in derivatives with a large investment bank in the City of London.

After graduating got a job with Mckinsey and ended up emigrating to Australia. I have had 2 1/2 years experience in consulting.

I have had a great time there and expect to get some good recomendations from some senior people.

I have been pretty active in the firm and have taken up a number of leadership roles, albeit in an informal capacity (for example ran some training programs, took the lead in organising some conferences).

In terms of extracurriculars I am a little light I think. I have done a little work with some for a not for profit, along with some other lads from Mckinsey. To be honest the family are the main focus at the moment.

Feedback and advice very much appreciated.

Thanks,

Andrew

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear Andrew,

I believe you will be interesting and competitive for the schools you mention. The US economy does not really affect admissions decisions per se, it only affects the size of the applicant pool. Regardless, it is not a factor to worry about or consider.

While I can see why you feel your extracurriculars are light, I do think you have some involvements you can highlight. It is quite difficult to add community involvement to the mix with your current career and a family. Based on your posts, no weaknesses jumped out at me that would need attention from you. Your time is best spent focusing on writing great essays and pulling your applications together.

Best of luck,
Lisa