Profile evaluation please!

[bschool123]

Consultants at Stacy Blackman - I'd like your professional opinion. I will be applying in 2009 (for the 2010 school yr). Here's my profile:

* 28 yo/ GPA 3.5/ GMAT TBD (680 - 720)

I would like feedback on the following:
1. What is your initial evaluation of my profile with respect to the schools I'm targeting?
2. I have not had leadership roles in my volunteer work, but I have held such roles at work. Is this going to be a big negative that needs to be rectified?
3. I will be 30 when I start b-school. How does this impact admission decisions?

I would appreciate your feedback - thanks!

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear bschool123,

You are building a strong profile to be competitive at top 10 programs. However, your GMAT will need to be over a 680 to be competitive. If you have leadership experience from your professional experiences, then that is ideal. I would not worry too much about not having a formal leadership role in your volunteer activities. If you have an opportunity to take on a role in the next year that you would like to have pursue, then you might consider it.

If you are a US citizen or Permanent Resident, then you will not be viewed as part of the international IT/India group. However, if you will be an international student requiring a student visa, then you will be considered part of that group. Whether or not you mention that you grew up in India is to your discretion if you feel it appropriate in your essays.

Being 30 when you start business school is not a negative. You should just be prepared to work with classmates that are 23-26.

Good luck,
Lisa