Which schools should I target

[chrisstroud]

Hi!

I will be applying to MBA programs to enter Fall 2014 and am looking for guidance on what schools I have a shot at. Here is the relevant information, if there is anything else needed let me know.

1. Graduated with a BS in Kinesiology with a lower GPA of 2.4
2. Currently taking alternative transcript classes. Introduction to Entrepreneurship (finished with A), Macroeconomics (current), Stats and Accounting (next semester)
3. Will start studying for GMAT more seriously once I finish these classes.
4. Work experience is progressive with in the Health and Fitness industry. I
5. I have a side company where I provide Weight Management Software for other gyms. I grew this from the local weight loss program at the gym to being used on 3 continents and dozens of gyms: www.leanoutapp.com

The reason I want to get an MBA is to further my career objective, which is to help as many as people as I can with their health and fitness. I do not see my self in any other industry but want an MBA because I believe it will allow me to advance farther in these field and have greater inflence; which in turn will allow me to have more of an impact on more people.

A few questions:
1. My Quant isn't that great because my undergrad was science intensive not math intensive. That is why next semester I plan to take Stats and Accounting. Is that a good course?
2. Given the above profile, what schools should I be targeting? I know this might be difficult since I not have a GMAT score yet. I will have a 6 month time to study with it with only 25/hours work a week so I am confident in getting a 700+

[Jon@Admissionado]

Well, you do come from a unique and interesting industry that not many folks come from, that is for sure. So that's good. As for evaluating your profile, it's gonna be very hard without a GMAT. Your GPA is a bit low, so your GMAT is VITAL for you to balance out how the school perceives your academic capabilities. Let's hold off until you get that score, but once you do come back and post it here.

[chrisstroud]

Well, you do come from a unique and interesting industry that not many folks come from, that is for sure. So that's good. As for evaluating your profile, it's gonna be very hard without a GMAT. Your GPA is a bit low, so your GMAT is VITAL for you to balance out how the school perceives your academic capabilities. Let's hold off until you get that score, but once you do come back and post it here.

What about taking Stats and Accounting next semester? I want to apply R2 next year. Should I focus on GMAT more or take more alternative transcript classes?

[campbellronald7]

You should look at Babson College because they offer an MBA concentration that focuses on healthcare and life sciences. I think this would be a good option for you. They also offer a lot of flexibility regarding their programs and concentrations.

[money9111]

The GMAT will be more important than your alternative transcript. Keep in mind that an alternative transcript will not TRUMP your undergraduate GPA. Also, realize that your GPA is below a 2.5 which tends to be the unofficial cut-off for a lot of schools because it's a C average I believe. That's not to say that people don't get in to b-schools with GPA's below 2.5 because I know of some who did but that's definitely going to be a sore spot. The good thing is that you're doing the right things in order to be able to show that you can do the work. Make sure that you do everything in your power to get A's in all of those classes otherwise it could definitely work against you.

Also... think more about the answer to the "Why MBA question" - to say... I want an MBA because I believe it will allow me to advance farther in these field and have greater inflence; which in turn will allow me to have more of an impact on more people." Won't suffice in an application.

Forgive me if I'm being too blunt but because you want to apply this year for a 2014 intake - I'd rather give you the hard truth.

Good luck with studying for the GMAT. I would suggest you start studying before the end of your classes if you can. AT THE VERY LEAST - take a practice exam cold turkey to see how to you do. that will give you a sense for how close you are to your 700 score goal.