Chance me for H/S - current MBB first-year

Based on the most helpful WSO content and insights from various threads, let's break down your profile for H/S (Harvard/Stanford):

1. Academic Background:

   • UCLA Undergrad with a 3.91 GPA: This is strong. Your high GPA, especially in a non-traditional major for business school applicants, will stand out. Graduating magna cum laude from a reputable institution like UCLA adds to your academic credibility.

2. GMAT Score:

   • 720: While this is a solid score, it's slightly below the median for H/S, which tends to hover around 730-740. However, your unique background and strong GPA can help offset this.

3. Professional Experience:

   • Founding a Semi-Successful Startup and MBB Experience: This is a compelling combination. Your entrepreneurial experience, coupled with the prestige of MBB, positions you well. The transition from a creative endeavor to consulting showcases versatility and the ability to succeed in diverse environments.

4. Demographics:

   • International Asian Male from Hong Kong: While Asian males are typically overrepresented in the applicant pool, being from Hong Kong and having a unique career trajectory can help differentiate you.

5. Orientation:

   • Bisexual: Business schools, including H/S, are committed to diversity and inclusion. Sharing your story, especially if it has shaped your personal or professional journey, can add depth to your application.

6. Extracurriculars:

   • Charity Work and Creative Projects: Your involvement in charity and continuation of creative projects demonstrate a commitment to community and personal interests outside of work. Beefing up your ECs this year as planned can further strengthen your application.

7. Personal Statement:

   • Compelling Story: Having a compelling personal statement that ties together your unique background, personal journey, and professional experiences can significantly impact your application. It's an opportunity to highlight your resilience, creativity, and leadership.

Advice: Given your profile, your chances at H/S are realistic but competitive. Your unique background, high GPA, and MBB experience are significant strengths. The main areas to work on would be enhancing your GMAT score, if possible, and further developing your extracurricular profile to showcase leadership and impact. Additionally, crafting a personal statement that effectively tells your story will be crucial.

Remember, H/S look for candidates who bring diverse perspectives and can contribute uniquely to their community. Your non-traditional path, from art and entrepreneurship to consulting, sets you apart. Focus on articulating how your experiences have prepared you to contribute to H/S and your future ambitions.

In summary, you have a strong foundation. With some strategic enhancements and a compelling application, you have a realistic shot at H/S. Good luck!

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/m7-ib-associate-full-time-recruiting?customgpt=1, Chances Of GSB Deferred / HBS 2+2 MBA Programs?, NE M7 to MBB: What I wish I knew, observations, and ask me anything, Q&A: GS/MS IB Analyst —> Megafund PE Associate —> HBS/GSB Business School, M7 Chances for Non-Traditional Background