Profile Evaluation

[vivanov]

Hi Lisa & the beatthegmat community,

My name is Vladimir Ivanov (22), originally from Bulgaria. I am a computer science student looking to steer away more towards the Management Information Systems field. My GMAT test is in 10 days, I have been scoring around the 650 marker on the practice tests, and I expect such results on the real test.

I do not have full time work experience, but I have been working part-time for the past 3 years as an IT Specialist. I am getting experience as project manager (supervisor) in the past few months on the job. I have done two internships. Both were technology oriented jobs (coding and software development).

I will graduate with BS in Computer Science and minor in Business Administration (University of Hawaii at Hilo). My GPA is 4.0. I have won the award for best performing junior. In my current Software Engineering class we are doing a year-long project with a real customer. I am the project manager of my team.

I have been looking at Carnegie Mellon’s MIS program. What do you think are my chances in applying to top schools & would you recommend other MIS programs?

Your input would be greatly appreciated

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear Vladimir,

MIS programs evaluate applications differently than MBA programs. Generally speaking, they are not as concerned with work experience so that should work to your advantage. Whether or not a 650 is high enough for Carnegie Mellon depends on what the average is for that program. You want to be at or above the average to be in the best position. I do think your high GPA, internships, part-time work experience, and project management experience through coursework will aid your application so be sure to leverage those experiences.

Best of luck,
Lisa