Chances/Advice??

[Sameera]

Hi, I am planning on applying to Columbia and Carlson (U of M) this year. I am 20 and have a 3.2 GPA, but its a upward trend. If I were to score high on the GMAT, would that counter balance my low GPA? Do I even have a shot at these schools? I work as a cashier at a retail store but I have volunteer experience: Hospital, elementary school, youth center, UNICEF.......What can I do to improve my application with the lack of job experience?? Should I look for some kind of internship or another job (downtown)?? Thanks.

I am aiming to score 720+ on my exam....Would that help, hypothetically speaking??

Also, I need help as to what I should include in my essays. I want to go into the field of retail....I want to start my own clothing company eventually. I know exactly what I want to do, so should I be precise in my essay or should I be more broad and general (just say I want to have my own line)?? Thanks.

PS....I am learning about fashion also.....

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear Sameera,

As someone with no professional work experience looking to enter directly from college, you will need to be an above average candidate. Your GPA is average or a little below average for Columbia and Carlson. So it will be important for you to score in the 700's on your GMAT (the higher the better). It is also critical for you to have a solid rationale for why you want to get your MBA, why now versus in a few years with experience and what you aspire to do in your career. I think you need to be more specific here than vague to make a compelling case. Finally, you will be expected to have experiences from extracurriculars and internships that demonstrate your leadership potential and maturity.

Good luck,
Lisa

[Sameera]

Thanks a Lot.