I took the GMAT last December and decided not to apply this year but instead wait to apply during Fall 2016. I did this to be better prepared for the application process and not have to rush through it.
What are some things I can (or should) be doing between now and the R1 deadline to improve my candidacy and chances at the top schools? I figure most of it would be in terms of extracurricular activities, but was hoping people who had experience in this would chime in. Are there any activities/groups/clubs etc. that are preferred by adcoms?
I am aiming for the top 10. My profile isn't ideal since I am an Asian male in finance. Here is a short breakdown of my profile:
27 Asian male, born in the States. Will be 28 by the time applications roll around and 29 by matriculation.
UCLA Economics undergrad, 3.55 GPA with improving trend (3.7 & 3.8 last 2 years, majority of first 2 years was pre-med courses)
730 GMAT (73%ile Quant, 96%ile Verbal). 8 IR, 5.5 AWA
5 years work experience at two companies doing FP&A. First was at a major defense company (1 promotion) and left right before a second promotion. Current job is at a major asset management company. Was just promoted a few months ago. Promotion skipped a level so essentially the promotion was for 2 levels. Non-managerial positions but have essentially acted as a team lead at both companies (youngest in department at both companies as well). Multiple awards at both companies.
Basic volunteer activities such as at a food bank, annual CHOC walk, etc.
Thanks everyone!
What are some things I can (or should) be doing between now and the R1 deadline to improve my candidacy and chances at the top schools? I figure most of it would be in terms of extracurricular activities, but was hoping people who had experience in this would chime in. Are there any activities/groups/clubs etc. that are preferred by adcoms?
I am aiming for the top 10. My profile isn't ideal since I am an Asian male in finance. Here is a short breakdown of my profile:
27 Asian male, born in the States. Will be 28 by the time applications roll around and 29 by matriculation.
UCLA Economics undergrad, 3.55 GPA with improving trend (3.7 & 3.8 last 2 years, majority of first 2 years was pre-med courses)
730 GMAT (73%ile Quant, 96%ile Verbal). 8 IR, 5.5 AWA
5 years work experience at two companies doing FP&A. First was at a major defense company (1 promotion) and left right before a second promotion. Current job is at a major asset management company. Was just promoted a few months ago. Promotion skipped a level so essentially the promotion was for 2 levels. Non-managerial positions but have essentially acted as a team lead at both companies (youngest in department at both companies as well). Multiple awards at both companies.
Basic volunteer activities such as at a food bank, annual CHOC walk, etc.
Thanks everyone!
