2 Years in Marketing - low GMAT - Apply this year?

[ozzy10fl]

Hello,

I am currently trying to decide whether or not to apply this year to business school. I have 2 years experience (2.5 upon application) in a marketing firm specializing in media management and data analysis. I would like to get an MBA to change my career path towards management (and strategy) consulting.

I have great career achievements so far, and have had exposure to eastern culture (South Asian). I have a modest amount of volunteering, and am active in a professionals org. I have excellent recommenders, and am a very good essay writer. My GPA was a 3.4 from the University of Florida (top 50 schools). I recently took the GMAT in July and scored a lousy 620 (40Q ; 35V), and this is just after scoring a 760 in a GMAT Prep test! I am re-taking the Gmat at the end of August.

My dilemma is this. If I do not score above a 660 on the 2nd try, should I wait and get an additional year of experience, or do I apply this year regardless.

My reach schools are Fuqua, Stern, McCombs, and McDonough. I do not want to go to a school outside top 25 rank.

Any advice is GREATLY appreciated,

Ozzy

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear Ozzy,

I do not think you should wait if you feel you are ready to go to business school now. While I can understand your disappointment in your 620, it is not as bad a score as you think. I'm glad to hear you will retake it as I do think you can increase your score.

In the event your GMAT score is in the 620-660 range, the rest of your application needs to be outstanding. Your GPA is good, so it will be important to demonstrate your successful work experience in well-written essays and resume.

Best of luck,
Lisa

[ozzy10fl]

Thanks for the advice Lisa. I'll let you know how I do on the GMAT. I've heard applications are going to be ridiculous this year, so I'll need a ton of luck =).

One last question: Is trying to meet with and network with admission board members frowned upon, or is it encouraged? While I have met with and spoken to alumni of various schools, I don't want admissions to think I'm trying to get "on the inside" by talking to or emailing them.

[Lisa Anderson]

I think it is beneficial to both the school and you when you develop a friendly rapport with an admissions professional. You can gain insight into the school and its culture; they can get to know you better putting a "face to your name". Just be careful not to overstep the boundaries by emailing too much or with questions that can easily be answered from viewing the website.

Best of luck,
Lisa

[ozzy10fl]

Hi again Lisa,

I re-took the GMAT today, and was very pleased with a score of 700 (47 Q 40 V). As I have been studying for the past 5 months. I haven't written any essays. My question is, given that first deadlines to schools are in about 6 weeks, is that enough time to write killer essays for about 5 schools? Do you think I can craft competitive applications in 6 weeks with just over 2 years work experience? I can always wait for 2nd deadline, but many say your chances go down.

Any advice/suggestions would help

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear ozzy10fl,

Congratulations--good job! There is no disadvantage to applying in the second round. It is better to take the time you need and submit a stellar application than rush to hit the first round deadline. Perhaps you can focus on first round for your top 1 or 2 choices and then submit second round for the rest?

Best,
Lisa

[ozzy10fl]

Hi Lisa,

I have a quick question regarding undergrad performance. I graduated one semester late due to a major change from finance to marketing (wasn't happy with finance). This led to my having to "catch up" to meet the marketing pre-reqs. Is this a big enough reason to write an explanation for lets say, Stern's essay #4? Or is it not a big deal?

Best,

ozzy

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear ozzy,

I don't think a major change, on its own, is worth an optional essay. However, if it is part of a larger story to acknowledge a weakness in your application, then it might be worthwhile to include.

Regards,
Lisa