Feel like I only have 1 option - chances at M7? or top15?
Hi monkeys, once again I'm coming to this wonderful forum that has helped me many times through my career.
Hopefully someone is able to shed some light on whether my profile has a chance to get into a top MBA program.
First of all, my motivation for an MBA is to do career switch. I work at a very niche boutique management consulting firm specialised in a sector I don't want to continue specialising in, but life took me down this path and haven't been able to switch careers to do what I want.
My profile:
Male 29 years old (planning to do MBA in 2025 so will be 30)
Hispanic
Live and work in Singapore
6 years of experience (1 in investment banking at a global bank, 3.5 as a finance analyst at a large tech company, 1.5 at a management consulting boutique)
Undergrad in Economics from semi-target European uni
GPA is low but I have a justification for it (I believe conversion to US system will be something like 3.3)
GMAT 710
Extracurriculars: manage a tiny private investment fund for some relatives and friends with $500k under management and 3-year track record beating the S&P500 since inception
My objective is to switch careers to buy-side investment management. Actually I make way more money than I need, and money is not a motivation anymore (just got a 20% raise this year and I felt nothing). Money management is what I am passionate about, have been doing it on the side for 7 years and more seriously for 3 years since I established the fund I manage. I have applied to hundreds of opportunities and never received even an invitation for an interview. My plan is MBA >> Investment analyst/associate at a Long only equity fund (don't care if its small or large).
I am open to change my plan but currently I see MBA as the best option, does it make sense to do a top15 or even top30 MBA to break into investment management? Do I even have a chance at M7? Open to suggestions and advice. I don't know how to approach my career right now but definitely need to change.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, let's break down your profile and assess your chances for an M7 or Top 15 MBA program:
Age/Ethnicity/Location: Being 30 years old, Hispanic, and working in Singapore presents a diverse background that can be appealing to MBA programs looking for international and cultural diversity.
Work Experience: Your experience is quite varied, with stints in investment banking, finance at a tech company, and management consulting. This demonstrates versatility and the ability to adapt to different roles, which is a positive.
Education: An undergraduate degree in Economics from a semi-target European university is solid. While your GPA may be on the lower side, a strong narrative explaining the circumstances can mitigate concerns.
GMAT Score: A 710 is competitive for top MBA programs, although for M7 schools, it's around the average or slightly below. A higher score could strengthen your application, but it's not a deal-breaker.
Extracurriculars: Managing a private investment fund is an impressive extracurricular activity, especially with a track record of beating the S&P 500. This showcases leadership and a strong interest in finance, aligning with your post-MBA goals.
Post-MBA Goals: Your clear goal of moving into buy-side investment management is a plus. Admissions committees look for candidates with a clear vision of what they want to achieve with their MBA.
MBA Impact: You've articulated a need for an MBA to pivot your career, which is a common and valid reason for pursuing this degree.
Considering all these factors, you do have a chance at M7 schools, but it will be competitive. Your profile is also well-suited for Top 15 programs, which could be slightly less competitive and still provide excellent opportunities in investment management. To enhance your application:
Strengthen Your Narrative: Clearly explain your low GPA and craft a compelling story around your career progression and future goals.
Research and Network: Look into specific programs and their placement records in investment management. Networking with alumni or current students can provide insights and potentially strengthen your application.
Consider Alternative Strategies: If the MBA doesn't work out, you might explore other certifications or educational paths that could facilitate a career switch.
Remember, each part of your application can compensate for weaker areas, so a holistic approach to your application will be key. Good luck!
Sources: Is it possible to get accepted into an M7 MBA program when you don't have enough money to afford it?, Ask mbaMission about Business School Admissions, Ask mbaMission about Business School Admissions, Chances of Top 20 MBA?, State School Undergrad = NO CHANCE FOR M7???
LO AM is one of the most coveted "high-finance" spots out of MBA with maybe 20 spots across the street. Most recruit from 5 schools (HSW, Booth, Columbia) and most from HSW.
If you are serious on LO AM I would suggest you bump your GMAT to at least a 730+ to offset your low-ish GPA (although a 3.3 isn't terrible) to get into these schools (probably 750+ for HSW)
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