Ask Natalie from Accepted about Business School Admissions

Hi Eskimo Brothers, I have successfully worked with part time clients for all three schools you list and also reviewed and made final decisions on applications for 12 years for part time applicants (also full-time and undergraduate) as an admissions director. Since GMAT isn't the only measure for schools, I'm happy to take this conversation off line and you can send me your resume. Just click on the link http://www.accepted.com/aboutus/nataliegrinblattepstein that says, "have Natalie contact me" and I can review your transcripts, work experience and we can chat about why you are interested in an MBA. I would also like to see your GMAT breakdown (Q vs. V) and if you want to share your AWA and IR, I'm happy to look at that as well. The Q has a much stronger correlation to your performance in the core courses. I realize that may not be a factor for Booth because they really only have one required core course. When you click on the link and get to me, please let me know that I met you through WSO. Warmest Regards,

Natalie Grinblatt Epstein Admissions Consultant & Former MBA Admissions Dean www.accepted.com/mba My bio | Contact Me www.accepted.com

Hi Dick,

Some schools welcome students that have MBAs for refreshers into their EMBA programs (and some do not). I don't remember drinking "classmates under the table" as being a prerequisite to any program, but I can tell you that Wharton's San Francisco program overly emphasized the bar in the hotel they use at a recent information session I attended. I would like to know more about you, why your experience is unique and also why you received bad press. In aggregate, admissions directors are somewhat risk averse. I need to know more about you before I can suggest schools. Please contact me by clicking on "have Natalie contact me" on my bio page http://www.accepted.com/aboutus/nataliegrinblattepstein and we can discuss schools to target.

Warmest Regards,

Natalie Grinblatt Epstein Admissions Consultant & Former MBA Admissions Dean www.accepted.com/mba My bio | Contact Me www.accepted.com

Hi Wilhug,

It's about the quality of experience that you have and how your public sector experience ties into your goals. I suggest you review our free special report http://info.accepted.com/mba-special-reports/ The MBA Action Plan. It will also depend on the schools to which you plan to apply (some schools like younger candidates and some schools like more seasoned candidates). You are welcome to get in touch with me for more information by clicking on the have Natalie contact me link http://www.accepted.com/aboutus/nataliegrinblattepstein

Natalie

Hi SuperAndy. The 11 months off is a concern. What did you do in that time? In terms of leadership, you're never too late. Get involved with your community or at work. Articulate your vision for the organization with your colleagues and subordinates and get buy in from your supervisors to push your vision forward. Admissions committees want to see that you've demonstrated leadership and can quantify your achievements. Did you increase revenues? Decrease costs? Increase efficiency? Increase market share? Increase shareholder value? If so, by how much. Think about your Deltas. What happened before Andy started with the organization and what happened after Andy left the organization (or completed the project). I also recommend you review Leadership in Admissions http://www.accepted.com/mba/application.aspx. You can also contact me directly by clicking the tab "have Natalie contact me" http://www.accepted.com/aboutus/nataliegrinblattepstein.

Worklikeamachine, you ask a great question. What is the secret sauce? Applying to school is very similar to blind dating. On the adcoms side of the table, they are trying to figure out if they want to have a 5 course meal with you or a quick coffee. Why would you want to have a 5 course meal with someone? They're interesting. They do things that are unique. They inform you about things you didn't know (you can educate the adcom). They keep you glued to their every word (both in the application and in person). In creating a class, the admissions director must take his or her applicant pool and make a beautiful mosaic out of these incredibly diverse pieces. Each fitting together to make a class that will demonstrate their leadership, their creativity, their foresight. Each school has its nuances and you need to get to know what the school values. If its not what you enjoy, then you may want to think about other schools. To summarize: the candidates that stand out show initiative and drive, a demonstrated record of achievement, collaboration and leadership, passion (not just for work, but for hobbies, activities and/or service), strong communication and interpersonal skills, courage, creativity, maturity and self-awareness. They are proactive, fearless and loyal. They are open to advice and conduct their research. They know their strengths and weaknesses and want to or already have begun to address those weaknesses. The secret sauce: you need to intrigue the committee and set yourself apart from your competition because of who you are, not just what you do.

OvercomeAll, I'm so sorry about your illness. As a former director/dean, my concern would be that I know you are bright, but is your illness going to impact your school work at Stanford? You need to figure out a way to convince Derek Bolton and his team otherwise. Also, I'm not sure what you mean by "nice" recommendations. I hope you mean they tell Stanford that you are the best candidate they have ever seen. Nice won't cut it. Having said all that, one of my favorite and most successful students had a 2.2 GPA and 780 GMAT. He wasn't ill, but someone in his family was ill. He did make an appointment to see me and plea his case. He was incredibly convincing because I admitted him and he graduated top of his class, became student government president, class president, gained a job at a top consulting firm and is now an MD at that firm. He was proactive in taking courses that made me less concerned about his drive to complete our courses successfully. He also recently received an alumni achievement award from the school. If you want to take this off line, please contact me by clicking on the "have Natalie contact me" link http://www.accepted.com/aboutus/nataliegrinblattepstein and we can chat this week.

Natalie

Dear Willois,

You are correct that your stats as of now are not competitive for a top MBA program. Is there a reason you want to rush into an MMS rather than work for a few years and then apply to an MBA program? I have worked with several clients who did an MMS and then eventually felt they needed the MBA as well, so if the MBA is really what you want, it strikes me as getting the work experience and nailing the GMAT will go a long way towards making your profile competitive in a year or two.

Dear frenchvanillacreamer,

You will certainly be considered a viable candidate with your statistics and work experience at all the schools you are looking at. International candidates are always taken seriously as admissions committees want to put together the most diverse class possible. What you need to make sure you manage is expectations for internship/full-time job. As I am sure you are aware, placing international students in US-based jobs can be difficult, so you just need to keep that in mind as you prepare your application package and think about what your goals and objectives are for the programs you are looking at.

Hi TimBrad,

As I am sure you know there is much less pressure for top stats with part-time MBA programs. That said, you want to be sure you discuss the mitigating circumstances (working your way through school) in the optional essay. Looks like you have solid work and community experience, which is also good. Provided you can put together a good package, I see no reason why you wouldn't be considered a serious candidate. For tips on how to overcome your weaknesses, have a look at our resources related to that on our website: www.accepted.com/mba/applicationweakness

Hi ThisWay,

While the 700 score is not the greatest, it is still solid, and with the very strong 3.9 GPA at a top school I think there should be no concern about your academic ability. I would be sure to focus your essays less on work and more on personal stuff if the questions allow. It is hard to stand out from the pack at top schools with the work experience you've got, so focus on other aspects as much as possible. Have a look at our MBA special reports for more tips, or feel free to be in touch with me directly (contact info in my signature): www.accepted.com/mba-special-reports

Hi takesnotes08,

It looks to me as if you would have an interesting profile for Columbia. As long as you get a strong gmat score (720+), I don't think there will be any need to explain away your GPA. Since you were running your own business in college that seems like a pretty good reason to have not done as well as you might have liked (obviously this is something you would want to mention in an optional essay). It is hard to differentiate your work experience from the pack, but the fact that you ran your own business and worked in Africa will definitely warrant a serious look.

Hi freefly,

You obviously are a really solid candidate with top credentials (academically and work-wise) and strong extracurriculars. Do you have any international experience? If there are opportunities to take on an international project I could see that as one way of further solidifying your candidacy. Obviously a promotion between now and the application would be great, too.

Dear EE_cons,

I'll be honest that I am not feeling great about your chances at the schools you are looking at, primarily due to the low GMAT score and lack of extracurriculars. If the MBA will be company-sponsored and your plan is to return, you might want to think about waiting and doing an EMBA program in a few years. The GMAT score averages are lower and there is more emphasis on career progression to that point. If you excel in your career between now and then (promotions, increases in responsibility), you may be considered a more viable candidate. Here is a blog post on EMBA pros and cons that may be of interest to you: http://blog.accepted.com/executive-mba-pros-cons/

Regarding your specific questions: 1. As your profile stands right now, not great. 2. To improve your profile I would start getting involved with something you feel passionate about in the community as soon as possible, since you don't want it to appear as though you are padding your resume. 3. H/S/W networks are global and extensive, but probably in Eastern Europe I would guess there is less concern with the cache that comes along with those programs. As such, a more European-centric program could work for you.

"EuropeMonkey"

Hi Natalie and Jen, Thank you for tanking the time to help us.

I'm planning to start a Master in Finance next September.

1) I don't have any full-time work experience.

2)GMAT 750 (98%) --- Quant: 49(77%)__Verbal: 44(98%)___IR 6 (69%)___AW 3 (I messed up in the essay, hope it is not so important).

3) Italian University (non-target school) Mayor: Business administration (in Italian) GPA: 27/30 (equivalent to 2:1 in UK) ___ I expect to graduate in July 2017.

4) I spent 5 summers in high-school working as a volunteer.

6) I'd like to start my career in IB (ideally in the US, although I know it would be hard, having an european non-target degree).

For now I applied only for the Stockholm School of Economics's Msc in finance (2 year program), and i'm going to apply also for Bocconi's Msc in finance (2 year program).

What are the best MF I could apply for (considering my profile) to get a job in IB (in US and Europe)?

Thank you for your consideration

Dear NonAmericanPsycho,

To answer your question about evaluation of British candidates, most schools have a target percentage of international students they wish to enroll each year. Proficient English is obviously necessary, along with strong academics, good gmat score, strong work ethic, and good career placement opportunities. As such, British applicants are very well thought of.

In your case in particular, you will be considered a serious candidate, however round 1 in the next cycle probably works more to your advantage. By the time round 3 comes around, schools can be very selective in terms of how they round out their cohorts, usually going for more non-traditional candidates since they probably have a fair percentage of the more "typical" functions already enrolled (finance, tech, etc.). Since your work experience is solid but not all that differentiated, you probably have a better shot in round 1 next year. If you decide to wait, consider taking the GMAT again as well. While 700 is a good score, the higher the better at the schools you are considering!

Dear Michael90,

I am a colleague helping Natalie out on this forum. You appear to have solid credentials to be considered for a top 20 program. The experience in Shanghai along with the Chinese language is especially a good differentiator. The 720+ GMAT should definitely be the goal.

In terms of being considered for a job in the US, I am sure you are aware of the strict Visa issues. Therefore, you can certainly have a US-based job as a goal, but have a solid non-US back up plan you would be comfortable with before applying, so you manage expectations during the application process (goals essay). I have had several international candidates who have been able to find US-based jobs, but have had to work hard to do so (in other words, don't expect a career services office to be able to hand you a job). Be prepared for that.

As for extracurricular activities, it matters less what you do and more the commitment you show towards your particular area of interest (animal shelter, Toastmasters, Big Brothers/BigSisters, etc). Don't just volunteer, take on an active role either on the board or committee within the organization. Do all you can to make a tangible difference.

Dear monkeybusiness99,

Obviously H/S/W look for the best of the best. You have great academics and solid work experience (though in an area of high-representation in the applicant pool). Creating your major sounds like a possibly interesting angle to pursue in the application process, as well as focusing on your extracurriculars to differentiate yourself from other candidates.

I am not sure what you mean by "first year college student?"

In terms of other schools to consider, I would look at Booth, Columbia and NYU.

Hi Aurelius9,

I am a colleague of Natalie's helping her out.

I think the biggest challenge for you is telling a cohesive story about your background so it all fits together and gets you to the point of aiming for an MBA. If you can weave everything together, you have good stats, so there won't be concern about your academic ability, and you should be considered a serious candidate at the schools you mention in that regard. If it's possible for you to engage in an activity outside of work I would encourage you to do so - most successful candidates to top programs somehow manage to fit extracurriculars into seemingly inhospitable schedules.

In terms of timing, it seems like putting in another year in the renewable energy sector strengthens your story about focusing on that post-graduation, so focus on taking on increased responsibilities to bolster that whenever possible.

"Frank Quattrone"

Hi Linda

Thanks for doing this. Just had a question for you out of curiosity.

Is it possible for a student to appeal their case for admissions into a HSW-tier B-School to the school's adcomms, in spite of poor academics, all other parameters being equal (research work, MBB consulting job, extra-curricular leadership roles)? I mean, is it possible to literally go to the offices of the adcomm team, after booking an appointment perhaps, and appealing in person why one's application is unique and ought to be considered, way before admissions season? And does it actually work?

Hi Vincent,

I am sure you are aware that being a white male with a finance background puts you in a pretty big pool of MBA applicants. As such, an admissions consultant can be very useful in terms of figuring out how best to present your story in such a way as to grab the attention of an admissions committee. You have some positives in your profile that can and should certainly be highlighted (and no doubt there are more than what you wrote here).

In terms of when to book with a consultant, that depends on when you plan on applying (I would suggest round 1 and certainly no later than round 2 considering your demo). If round 1, all essay questions and application instructions for schools should be out by around June 1st, so whenever after that you are ready to get started is when you should sign up. I usually suggest working on the application that has the most essay questions first, as then you will have a library of content to adapt for subsequent schools (most schools have a question or two that are pretty similar in nature). Beyond that it depends on your budget and how confident you become after completing that first application. At Accepted we are sure to provide the attention you need for as long as you need it!

Finally, it is a big red flag to not have a recommendation from your current employer. Unless you have a convincing argument against that you put forth in an optional essay, you should bite the bullet (and unfortunately the chance of missing out on a bonus won't be a very convincing one).

Please feel free to reach out to me offline if you would like to consider working with Accepted.

"GSB or bust" Demographics: Asian male, 25

Work Experience: 1.5 years at T2 consulting firm (ATK/OW/LEK) 1 year at one of Alphabet's 'Other Bets' doing strategy 1 year at Google doing strategy

GMAT: 740; may take GRE for non-MBA masters

Undergrad: Canadian university; studied Math with minor in CS, top 10%; lived and worked in the on-campus startup incubator, started and had some traction with a couple of projects

EC's: Started two e-commerce businesses earlier this year and grossing about 50k so far. Building a VR application for enterprise. Mentored grade school students in math through nonprofit, and helped organize a visit to Google.

Draft story: Always been passionate about high tech & startups hence studied math&CS, but decided to do consulting to pickup qualitative/leadership skillset. Pivoted to tech by joining an Alphabet startup, allowing me to work on a small & rapidly growing business within a bigger/safer/reputable environment. Then transferred to Google to 1) take on more responsibility, and 2) tackle problems in a new & unrelated space (also because the other bet wasn't doing so well, but not sure if I should mention that as a reason).

Goal: H/S/W to hone leadership / organizational skills, network, and learn how to launch & run a successful enterprise. Post-MBA would be to either join a very early stage startup or start a company focusing on workplace applications of VR (also open to other technologies if it fits story better).

Main question: How can I weave together these pieces into a more compelling story?

Thanks!

Hi GSB or bust,

I think the key to your question would be in educating the admissions committee about the future of VR and your place in it. You need to be able to "predict the future" and think about why and how VR will change the way we live. Once you think about the future, move your story backwards chronologically and offer examples of how each component has led you to VR. Threading your work as stepping stones to your future will hold merit. Discussing your desire to be in the start up space generally will not be as compelling as offering a the committee a lesson in VR. I hope this help you think more strategically about the various components, but if you get stuck, this is where Accepted could help you, so feel free to contact us for advice. Natalie

"Goldmanboy" Hi Natalie, I am interested in applying to a couple of programs after my two year analyst program at a top BB in a Middle Office role, primarily interested in Cornell Johnson and NYU Stern for their FT MBA programs.

Demographics: Asian male, 24

Work Experience: 2 years at GS/MS/JPM in a MO role

GMAT: 740;

Undergrad: Top 50 US University, the flagship State University

EC's: Mentoring undeserved youth in NYC through reading and academic support programs, participated in a similar program throughout college, helping kids study for the SAT, write college essay's and ultimately gain college admission.

Draft story: Always interested in the financial services industry, worked in a MO role to gain a deep understanding of how a large bank actually functions, would like to transition to IBD covering Financial Institutions to gain greater exposure to the big picture strategy.

Goal: Stern, Cornell, Darden, Duke, Ross

Main question: How can I reason for pursuing an MBA at such an early age, 24 w/ 2 years of work experience? My internal rationale is working the hours in IBD at the youngest age possible to pursue family/marriage in my later 20's.

Hi Goldmanboy,

Do you have a serious partner in your life now? The internal rationale doesn't work so well with these extremely family friendly schools where married students make up a good chunk of the population. In fact, if you had asked this question of my colleague, Jen, she would have told you that she attended Cornell with her husband. Waiting one more year could put you in the running and still give you plenty of time for marriage and family in your late 20's. I know its not what you want to hear, but I think waiting an additional year would be worth it for you. Good luck! Natalie

"Gratisfaction" Don't need a profile evaluation (yet) but had a few general admissions questions.

1) If you're a touch under the average GPA at some M7's, does a GMAT above average really move the needle? Let's say a school's avg GMAT is a 720 and you had a 730, would that really make up for the lower GPA, or would it need to be like a 740+ to matter? Feel like I can guess the answer (yet, but also a holistic admission process), but worth asking anyways.

2) If you start at a "less prestigious" firm but then move into a better role for feeding into M7 (like LEK to MBB or something like that), are you viewed as a worse version of the kid who came out of a top school straight into a MBB and is applying?

Gratisfaction,

1. A 10 point improvement won't make a huge difference to M7s. Other items (the holistic viewpoint as you noted) are really important to M7s.

2. You are not viewed as a "worse" version, but you are looked at differently. Feeder firm applicants have an issue with trying to differentiate themselves because the work looks so similar. You may have an advantage by demonstrating your impact on your firm. The disadvantage is that you may not have the connections (i.e. partners/mds who graduated from the programs you are considering and can put in a good words for you). Hope this helps, Natalie

"nofundforoldtraders" Hi Natalie and Jen,

Curious where you think i could go.

GPA 3.2 from an avg (middle 60's ranked) State Undergrad University in Economics 17 years ago (now 40)

Worked at 4 investment banks on Government Bond Trading desks over 12 years (UBS, Morgan Stanley, Credit Suisse, etc..) (1st bank in IT as a programmer, 2nd bank as a desk analyst building excel models and doing some light programming - implementing other peoples ideas, then the other 2 banks as a bond trader - market maker and prop trader...the bank ultimately decided my product was too capital intensive and not profitable enough to continue with, so i was let go, and have not been able to find another similar position)

Spent the last 5 years unemployed doing independent research on a interest rates trading strategy...and realized that even if i execute it perfectly, i don't have enough capital to invest in the strategy to make this economical on my own (20-30% returns are great if you are trading 10mm+...but you can't live off that if you are trading 100k).

So, i'm looking to an MBA for a pivot. What are my options?

No Fund,

Things get complicated in your 40s and even more complicated with a lengthy unemployment record. Are you looking at full-time programs? That will be challenging. EMBA programs will also be challenging and they are not really structured for pivots, they are structured to enhance your role in a company. I welcome you to contact us (Jen or me) through accepted. I need to understand what you are thinking to tell you what is realistic for you. Natalie

"jphowar2" Hi Natalie and Jen,

I'm looking at LSE, LBS, Imperial, Warwick, and Cass in the U.K.

In the US I'm looking at Villanova, Vandy, Boston College, Virginia, Fordham, USC, Columbia, UT-Austin, and Notre Dame.

I'm not going to apply to all of these I'm eventually going to narrow them down but will reach on one school probably Columbia.

- I'm a rising senior at a non target on the west coast looking to join a Masters of Finance program after my senior year (would be applying for the class of 2019).

I've completed two internships in Finance/Accounting roles, one of which was in Australia for their equivalent of StubHub. The other was for a local accounting firm in the city where I go to school. I'm currently a DCM intern at a MM bank in their regional office for the summer and potentially for the upcoming school year.

- I've yet to take the GMAT but started studying about a month ago. I'm aiming for a score in the 650-700 range. I'm planning on taking it in September or October. - I go to a Pac 12 school thats almost always associated with being a gigantic party school to give you a hint. I have a 3.50 GPA and am majoring in Finance with minors in Economics and Applied Data Analytics. - Extracurriculars:

I lead a 3 week long school trip to the Dominican Republic and helped build a community center.

I Volunteer a couple times a month with a few charities

I've been a Philanthtopic Chair in my fraternity and been in charge of raising money for a picnic benefitting foster children.

Studied abroad in Australia and Spain

A member of a couple clubs on campus

I also walked on and played 1 year of varsity athletics but my career was cut short due to a string of bad injuries (Broken Back and Foot).

- Certifications:

Bloomberg Market Concepts

Macros (from an IM firm who came to campus and taught people how to build a trading macro).

Planning on taking the CFA level 1 in December and if all goes well taking level 2 in June.

- My post MF goal is to join a MM or BB investment bank in New York or Boston.

If I were to go to school in the U.K. I wouldn't mind living or working in London for around 5 or so years. I know that's easier said than done knowing that a company would need to sponsor me. I really appreciate you taking the time to respond to people's answers and thank you for your time.

Hi JP,

Ouch on the broken back and foot. Certainly not worth walking on for any sport. Are you a Sun Devil or a Wildcat (both have the party school rep)?

CFA will help with MF admissions, but you have chosen schools with huge differences in selectivity. Villanova and Warwick don't attach the same students as Columbia and LBS. Aim higher on your GMAT and keep getting As in your finance classes and the stretch schools are within your reach. You may have an easier time gaining admission for a school in the UK because they don't have many Americans applying to their programs, so you'll get points for uniqueness. And getting experience in London will set you up nicely when you want to return to the US. Good luck! Natalie

"reddevil1493" Hi @jenweld thank you for taking time to answer questions. Given that MFin/MF programs in the US mainly place graduates into Analyst level positions (in consulting/banking) as opposed to associates, what are some good reasons to pursue an MFin degree here? Also, if for whatever reason, a student wanted to get an MBA 2-3 years after an MFin, would having that first masters degree be a disadvantage for admissions?

Hi Reddevil,

This is Natalie. Jen will be back later in the week. My own feeling is that I think you run face a disadvantage in pursuing an MFin when you apply for MBA programs later down the road. Many schools feel there is too much overlap in the curricula. As for the analyst positions, the MFin is great if a. you have no work experience and want to break into banking or sales & trading and you could not get that kind of position right out of undergrad. b. you love modeling and you want to be a quant. Hope this helps you as you sort through your decisions. Natalie

"TonyMontanya" Hello Natalie and Jen,

Thanks so much for doing this! Below is some info on me!

- Work experience: currently playing professional baseball since I graduated. Before that was with an elite baseball training facility as coach. Only had a criminal justice internship during undergrad. Summers were spent in top ranked collegiate summer baseball league (so baseball was 12 month commitment). - Haven't taken GMAT Yet. One question I have is: What is a realistic range I would need in order to get into one of the better programs. - Attended Northeast non-target; Fin and crim justice double major (3.1 GPA cum was D1 athlete); Graduated in 2016. - Currently playing professional baseball. During undergrad, I was in the research/investment club; Part of alumni baseball mentorship program; two or three volunteering events. - N/A - Looking into MFIN programs. Unsure what ones to look at for realistic goals.

My dilemma is my baseball career could be over in the next year. I am trying to prepare for that by having a plan.

My questions are:

- If I choose a MFIN, what GMAT range would I need to be in to be in some of the better schools? - If I was to work in a finance role following baseball, would I have an interesting/unique background with decent test scores for an MBA a couple years down the road at a better school? - Would you recommend taking the MFIN route because I have no experience besides baseball, and in order to better my GPA, and get a better know school on my resume in order to get into IB/PE

Thanks so much for your time!

Hi Tony,

I'm the first one to say that I love athletes. Athletes understand leadership and teamwork, they have drive, determination and grit and they know how to size up the competition...all very important characteristics for business success. Having said that, MFin programs are more interested in your academic indicators that all these other traits. Thus, I would want to see your finance courses and the grades you received in your finance courses to give you an accurate assessment. A 3.1 with a criminal justice major/ finance minor is not the profile MFin programs seek. My feeling is that you will need to score in the mid-700s to be considered by the better MFin programs. Feel free to touch base with me via accepted by clicking on the contact me link. Natalie

"big_gun" Hi Natalie and Jen,

Thank you for doing this.

I am an Indian with the following profile -GMAT - 680 -Master in Finance from IE Business School specialization in corporate finance (3.12/4.0) (ranked 3rd globally by FT) -Bachelors in Management Studies specialization in Finance and Investments from University of Mumbai (3.42/4.0) -All three CFA Levels cleared. -Worked for a foundation based in India, lead the crowd funding project and other fund raising projects for the NGO. Worked with the team on strategy in areas involving marketing, finance and admin. - Founder and owner of a foundation which is involved in funding other NGOs on diverse issues such as education, healthcare, animals, and disability. - Professional basketball player since school, have represented school, college and club in various basketball tournaments.

I was a born dyslexic and have had extreme difficulties learning mathematics, languages, and retaining lot of information. It was only because of my mom I have been able to overcome this disability. As per the consultants, I was not suppose to clear 6th grade, maximum I could have studied was till 10th grade. The best quality I have is perseverance and the ability to outwork people around me with better quality work. Since the age of 18, I have been working with in my family business within the defence and aerospace sector. Eventually I have moved up to the ranks of Vice President and have worked on projects involving JV, alliances and acquisitions with companies from Israel, Europe, US and India. I am also involved in developing wearable tech for army and disaster management teams, a project which is being conducted in collaboration with Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). We are also in the process of listing one of your company on Indian stock exchange, which will be the largest IPO within the small cap segment. Post MBA goal is to return to the family business and use the MBA degree and network to diversify my business into the international markets either by alliances, JVs or acquisitions. My aim will be to acquire technology that India has either been deprived of or has been slow to develop. In the long term I want to see my company as one of the largest defence company in India and a one stop shop for most of the defence procurements for the Indian army and its allies. on the social front, I would like to continue to fund the NGOs in India and also assume a board position on those NGOs to ensure effective utilization of resources.

In all my post graduate experience has been 6 years so far, but by the time I join the bschool it will be 8 years. I am targeting NYU, Columbia, Cornell, Michigan, and Booth for MBA. Would be great if your could share your views on the same.

Thanks

Hi BigGun,

I think you have contacted me through Accepted. Your background is quite complex. Please reply to the email I sent you this evening and we can set up a time to chat later in the week. I look forward to speaking with you. Natalie

"FinDroid" Natalie, thanks for taking out time. The thread is insightful. I am an international student and want to apply for MSF 2018. I would like to get into IB (preferably M&A) or on the business side of tech firms. Here is my profile: - GRE - 330. 167 (Q), 163 (V) - Undergrad in Electronics Engg- 2016. GPA being 7.83/10 (Not sure how it translates on a 4.0 scale). Took an active part in activities- Student President of the Literary Club & a part of the Alumni Student Cell. - One academic research internship which led to the publication of two papers and one research internship as a part of the corporate finance team at an infrastructure company. - Working at an angel investment network (Investment upto $250K USD). I handle deal analysis, financial analysis, and execution. Worked on three investments in the tech space in the last year and was promoted within 9 months from Analyst to Associate. - Volunteer work with an international NGO which aims to increase women participation in tech and also a community which wants to build tech solutions for the underserved.

I am targeting MIT, Vanderbilt & Simon, Rochester. My plan is to stay in the same job for another 4-5 months and have an IB/ PE internship for 4-5 months before I begin the course. What do you think of my chances?

Also, do you think I should wait and apply for a MBA down the lane? Would a CFA degree help me?

Hi FinDroid,

I think you plan is good and I think all your schools are within reach. If you decide to pursue an MBA later on down the road and MFin may be disadvantageous, but the CFA will be advantageous. Good luck! Natalie

Hi televisual,

That's quite a list of schools! I am glad that you did so well on the GMAT, because the GPA is quite an issue. You will definitely need to address it in an optional essay, even if it's just to say you slacked off and regret it. On the surface I don't see anything in your profile that jumps out in terms of differentiation from the rest of those applying with a similar background, so you really need to focus on that aspect with your application to get noticed. Here are some resources from our website related to the schools you are considering that you might find helpful:

Harvard http://reports.accepted.com/mba/harvard-business-school Stanford http://reports.accepted.com/mba/stanford_graduate_school_of_business_we… Wharton http://reports.accepted.com/mba/wharton Chicago Booth http://reports.accepted.com/mba/chicago_booth_mba Columbia Business School http://reports.accepted.com/mba/columbia_business_school

And here is a podcast on addressing low GPA:

5 A’s for Your Low GPA: http://media.blubrry.com/admissions_straight_talk/www.accepted.com/hubf…

Dear thatswhatsup2,

You look like a very interesting candidate. You have strong work experience and involvement in the community. The academics look pretty good as well. If you could bump that GMAT score up a little bit (700+) that would make your candidacy that much stronger, but as it stands I'd say you have a decent shot at your target schools. In terms of your dream schools, these resources might be of interest to you:

Harvard http://reports.accepted.com/mba/harvard-business-school Stanford http://reports.accepted.com/mba/stanford_graduate_school_of_business_we…

"Gerry_Garner" 1) Brief description of your full-time work experience.

2 Years FP&A at F100 company

1 and 1/2 Years Fund Analyst at large (>$10 B) Real Estate Investment Company

2) Your GMAT or GRE. Percentiles preferred.

760

3) College info: The name of the college, your GPA or grade average, your major, year of graduation. For any graduate degrees, please provide the same info. If you grades are low, please indicate if there were extenuating circumstances.

Top 30 Undergrad, Finance Major, Class of 2014, GPA 3.24 - No special circumstances

4) Significant college and post-college extra-curricular activities or community service, especially leadership experience.

College - Immersion Trip, Cancer Fundraiser Committee Member

Post College - Head of Emerging Leaders Group of organization that combats homelessness, real estate professional group committee member that helps organize group volunteering events

5) Important certifications like CFA, CPA, FSA, or CA.

N/A

6) Your post-MBA goal.

Move into real estate acquisitions

I'm a white male considering applying either this upcoming summer or the following summer for full-time programs, or waiting for a couple of more years (6-8 total years of experience) and applying to EMBA programs. Given that Real Estate does not have the structured recruiting that IB. Consulting, F500 Rotational Programs have, I am not sure if going full-time makes sense unless I can get into a top school. Additionally, I would prefer to stay in the New England for full-time programs and would like to work in New England after the programs.

Full Time Programs that I am considering:

Tuck, MIT Sloan, Yale SOM, MIT MSRED (1- Year Real Estate Masters)

EMBA:

Columbia, Wharton, NYU ( not sure where else given that i'd be on the younger side with 6 - 8 years of experience)

Thanks in advance!

You're welcome!

There is no doubt that EMBA programs are easier to get into than FT MBA programs and that they will weigh your experience more than your undergrad GPA, especially given that stellar GMAT. Even the elite FT programs will take a good look at your app given that GMAT. BUT, they will need to know what's changed in terms of your academic ability. Clearly you have the talent, but do you now know how to study... to apply yourself in a demanding academic curriculum.

Did you blow off undergrad? Was there trend, hopefully upward while you were in college? Have you had to study for anything in a sustained way since college?

"blablablabla" Many thanks for doing this! I'm thinking of applying to either H/S/Booth in the US or INSEAD in Europe. Not sure whether that's worth going to the US school given I'm coming from Eastern Europe so will have all typical visa problems. Or am I wrong and it is still worth a try?

1) Brief description of your full-time work experience

Currently 2 years of inhouse consulting / strategy at top European bank; from Mar 2018 will be working at the same bank in Sustainable Investments team, mostly in the renewable energy space. Thinking about applying with around 2 years of experience in that department. Will be promoted this year.

2) Your GMAT or GRE. Percentiles preferred.

730

3) College info: The name of the college, your GPA or grade average, your major, year of graduation. For any graduate degrees, please provide the same info. If you grades are low, please indicate if there were extenuating circumstances.

Bachelor in Marketing from top uni of my home country (Eastern Europe), GPA around 95% + Master of Finance in Western European uni (top 20 FT rankings or so) with GPA of 80%

4) Significant college and post-college extra-curricular activities or community service, especially leadership experience.

This is the weakest spot I guess, apart from playing in my uni's soccer team nothing substantial.

5) Important certifications like CFA, CPA, FSA, or CA.

Nothing, plan to do CFA.

6) Your post-MBA goal.

Working in the area of renewable energy / infrastructure, preferably in PE.

Once again thanks a lot for the advice!

Hi Blablablabla,

Applying to US schools is worth the try only if you want to attend school and possibly work in the US. I suggest you contact Eastern European students at the schools that interest you (you can typically get in touch with them through the schools' clubs pages). I think your lack of leadership/extracurriculars and community service may be an issue, so will the limited work experience. You many want to cast your net a little further if you plan to pursue an MBA this year. Happy Holidays, Natalie

"mr.lorn" Hi Linda, Jen, Natalie,

Many thanks in advance! I am starting at MBB in Q1 2018. Will have to leave for MBA/Masters at the latest in two years. I have to options:

A) Do a master after one year (i.e. Fall 2019): E.g. Oxford MFE, Oxbridge/LSE MPhil Econ/Finance, MIT Finance, Stanford MS&E. Potentially do MBA later.

B) Apply for a MBA (H/S/W) right away in Fall 2020. Possibly sponsored by my MBB.

My profile (German native):

1) Work experience: MBB Germany starting in Q1 2018, internships: BB IBD and start-up, also 6 months research assistant at H/Y/M Business School as exchange student

2) GMAT: 730

3) College: Swiss Uni (target, top school in cont. Europe), Econ major, GPA: 5.4 (maybe 3.6/3.7 US) + exchange semester at top Ivy+ (H/Y/P/M) GPA 3.78

4) EC: President of uni charity organization, co-president of student consulting club, national scholarship

5) Certifications: N/A

6) Post-MBA goal: If sponsored back to MBB, else job in finance (HF, PE)

What do you think is the best option. Again, thank you very much.

HI Mr. Iorn,

Why do you need a one year Master prior to an MBA? I think the Fall 2020 without a additional master degree makes more sense. Your 6 months as a research assistant as an exchange student will not count toward your experience. MBB consultants are abundant at H/S/W. What are you doing to differentiate yourself. Sponsorship will help, but its not a guarantee. You should listen to Linda's podcast on getting into HBS https://reports.accepted.com/mba/harvard-business-school?utm_campaign=B…. Good luck and contact us directly if you need help with your apps. Happy Holidays, Natalie

"mountainguy" 1) 24 y/o, 2 years at a top BB (MS/GS) working in a MO role. The job involves a lot of financial reporting and P&L analysis of trading activity. Working with a wide range of teams across the firm including trading desk, strats, technology, operations. Looking to get another 2 years of work experience at another firm, possibly pivoting into consulting via networking.

2) Haven't take GMAT yet, but understand I'd need at the very minimum a 700+ to have a shot at a top MBA.

3) University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business - 2016 Accounting & Economics double major. GPA 3.2/4.0

4) Held leadership roles in my fraternity. Involved as a scholarship reader for inner-city students (basically read through applications and advise scholarship board on potential of the student based on their application/essays).

5) CFA Level II Candidate, plan to have cleared all levels before applying.

6) Ideally MBB consulting or IBD, but recently been very interested in top AM (Blackrock/PIMCO/etc).

Any advice on ideal work experience I can get in the next two years to improve MBA prospects?

Hi Mountainguy, When you say "top MBA" do you mean M7 or top 25? Your grades may be an issue with M7 particularly given your business undergrad. You will also be competing with candidates in FO roles, so transitioning may make sense. Maybe take on a leadership position in community service. While reading scholarships is noble, it doesn't demonstrate leadership. Feel free to contact me through Accepted. Happy Holidays!

Hi IDon't_Even_Go_Here

I think the triple major, more specifically the Philosophy part of it, helps to distinguish you from the many business majors and quant jocks who do not have a humanities or social science interest or expertise. They will expect you to have certain communications skills and qualitative analytical skills that others won't necessarily have or certainly won't be educated to have.

Your personal preference may have professional and admissions advantages.

Happy Holidays!

"zyxvzyxv" Hi Nat and Team,

Would be great to hear your perspectives on my profile.

Work Experience: - 2 years at a top investment bank doing M&A in the US (MS/JPM/Lazard/Evercore) - 2 years at a well established private equity fund (though not brand name) in Europe/Asia focusing on buyouts with a return offer post-MBA and strong recommendations across the board

GMAT: 730 (planning on raising to a 740-760 hopefully)

College Information: - Top 5 undergraduate b-school (Ross/Stern/McIntire/Haas). Overall 3.65 GPA with honors. Finance major. Finished strongly in Senior year, with bumpy sophomore/junior years (may be able to explain, but not counting on it). Held various jobs to support tuition/expenses throughout many semesters (15-25 hrs per week).

College ECs: - President of [Activity] Club

Post-College ECs - Involvement with non-profit board

Post-MBA Goals: Returning to same Private equity firm or pursuing something in the investing space

What are my chances for H/S/W if I am a non-URM male. Should I be aiming more for CBS/Booth? I have strong international routes though may just be thrown into the US Candidate application box. If so, what are some other ways to "spice up" my profile

zyxvzyxv,

I think it makes sense for you to apply to HSW and also to apply to CBS and Booth and MIT given your goals.

In terms of ways to spice up your profile, that's not something I can really address in a post because everything is general here. That's the kind of thing https://www.accepted.com/mba/services</a">we work on with our MBA clients one-on-one. .

But I can tell you that it's the specifics that spice up a profile. What challenges did you overcome? How did you overcome them. What difference did you make? How did you change as a result of the experience? It's those stories that frequently differentiate a successful from a non-successful but competitive applicant. .

"Prince Fresh" Hi Linda+team! Currently a senior with a couple questions on MBAs and deferred admissions. Thanks in advance!

1) Internship experience in strategy consulting (Deloitte S&O/Strategy&), F500 strategy internship, marketing internship at ad agency. Currently deciding whether to return to strategy consulting firm or join an analyst program at a MM PE fund (NYC).

2) GMAT 740. Asian Male.

3) Top 10 non-Ivy (Northwestern/Duke). GPA: 3.63. Double Major in Economics and Journalism (highly regarded program). Semester abroad in UK.

4) President of college consulting club. Director of highly-selective undergraduate mentorship program for consulting. MBA teaching assistant.

5) Your post-MBA goal: Work in PE.

Questions:

1) What would be looked more favorably by b-schools: the PE analyst program or strategy consulting? Would either be competitive for HBS 2+2/GSB Deferred (worth applying to)?

2) How competitive would I be if I'm targeting M7 for admissions 3-4 years down the line? Would this profile match certain schools better than others?

Prince Fresh,

Thanks for your post. To answer your questions:

1. First of all, what will really determine your competitiveness is what you accomplish in your position, not the difference between these two types of positions. That being said, and all other things being equal, I would give an edge to the PE analyst position. Regarding the second part of your question. I assume you are applying to the deferred admission programs and want to know what to write for your anticipated job. My answer is the same.

2. My understanding is that there's nothing as good for getting a job in PE as being in PE. And PE MBA grads make the most money in general. This profile would match the programs with high placement rates in PE and the curriculum that matches that placement rate -- like HBS, Stanford, Wharton, Columbia, Chicago, and Kellogg. MIT and Haas are up there too, but I don't think they have quite the same placement. as the other programs I mentioned.

You might find helpful: https://reports.accepted.com/mba-4-year-guide</a">Prep for B-School

Happy New Year!

Dear jamkub,

In terms of getting the degree right out of undergrad or after, it really is a question of what you feel you need the degree for. If you have defined what you want to do and the career is not attainable without an MF, then by all means, go right into the best program you can get into. If you are not sure what you want, but feel that getting a degree is just "what you should do," then that is not the best reason to go. Obviously you will be investing time and money to get this degree, and at the end of it you want to have the most positive outcome. If working for a few years to figure out what you really want will help you decide, then take that time to work in the field you have some interest to ensure that making the investment is worth it. Does that make sense?

"OverTheHedge" Hello Team, many thanks for doing this! I would greatly appreciate an evaluation.

Goal schools/programs: Kellogg, Duke, Darden, McCombs, Vanderbilt. Please let me know if there are any others that are more suited to my experience, scores, and goals.

1) Brief description of your full-time work experience.

By the time I will matriculate, I will have ~6 years of finance/risk/analytics experience. - 1.5 years in FP&A at a small private company in the hospitality industry focused on financial forecasting and competitive analysis - 2.5 years in a credit risk role within consumer lending (credit card portfolios) at a moderately sized private bank where I started managing acquisition strategies for one business segment. My responsibility grew to the point that I was in charge of all acquisition related financial and loss forecasting, while overseeing (in responsibility only) a team of 4 analysts who were responsible for the individual business segments. I was also responsible for designing our entry strategy into new credit segments from a risk-based perspective (pricing, acceptable losses, and segmentation). - 1 year in a credit risk role at a F100 developing portfolio management strategies for their credit card, mortgage, and auto portfolios.

2) Your GMAT or GRE. Percentiles preferred.

650 GMAT - heavily considering a retake.

3) College info: The name of the college, your GPA or grade average, your major, year of graduation. For any graduate degrees, please provide the same info. If you grades are low, please indicate if there were extenuating circumstances.

Undergrad: Tier I regional state school in the Western US (non-California). Cumulative GPA: 3.45. Major: Business Management. Graduated: 2013.

4) Significant college and post-college extra-curricular activities or community service, especially leadership experience.

Undergrad: Fraternity president and other internal leadership roles, club soccer, Business Plan Competition participant (responsible for market analysis and strategy).

Post college: Financial literacy volunteer experience for individuals aged 13+ and semi-routine volunteer work at local food banks.

5) Important certifications like CFA, CPA, FSA, or CA.

N/A, though I have considered CFA and FRM

6) Your post-MBA goal.

Strategy consulting or corporate strategy

If you think you can raise your GMAT, I strongly encourage you to prepare again and retake. Yes your experience is solid, but not extraordinary at the schools you are aiming for. Unless you have some major diversity angle that you didn't want to write about, I'm not optimistic about your chances at any of the programs you list. Get 30-50 points more, and Duke, Darden, Vandie, and McCombs become more realistic options. Kellogg would still be a stretch.

FYI I https://blog.accepted.com/admissions-tips-for-vanderbilt-owens-mba-prog…</a">recently interviewed Christie St. John, Vanderbilt's Dean of Admissions, for our podcast. Check it out.

Dear Resipsa1,

I am guessing that the reason for the dings is that if you want to stay in the same area, schools are thinking that a fulltime MBA doesn't make sense for you, especially considering your age at this point. If you decide to continue trying the fulltime path, you really need to convince the admissions committee that you need to go that route to transition in your career.

We do offer rejection review services, if you are interested. I could review one of your applications to give you a more detailed analysis. Please contact me offline if you'd like to discuss.

"mbahopeful123@" Hi there,

Thanks for doing this!

I'm a former refugee who was fortunate to get into Ibanking and now working in corporate development at a top $10B tech / media company in the West Coast.

Target Schools - HBS, Stanford, Wharton, Yale, Tuck, Columbia and maybe Booth (suggest any others?). Plan to also do an MPA / Intn'l Development dual degree at HKS.

If it helps provide color - I'm a 26 year old male, US Citizen (South African and Nepalese ethnicity and first gen highschool and college grad). Moved to US in middle school during the Nepalese civil war.

Would greatly appreciate any evaluation.

** 1) Brief description of your full-time work experience.**

Worked 1 year at a middle market investment bank in LA; moved to boutique investment bank in NYC focused on cross-border M&A and worked there for 2.5 years; currently working in corporate development at a $10B tech/media company in LA (Been 6 months at this new job. Will be ~1 year into the job when I apply for R1 in Fall 2018. The company I'm currently at is very well established in its space. Doesn't have history of sending kids to Bschools, but company has a TON of TOP 10 Bschool alums)

2) Your GMAT or GRE. Percentiles preferred.

700 GMAT - will be retaking 2 more times.

**3) College info: The name of the college, your GPA or grade average, your major, year of graduation. For any graduate degrees, please provide the same info. If you grades are low, please indicate if there were extenuating circumstances. **

Undergrad: Low-ranked state school in mid-west US. Cumulative GPA: 3.1. Major: Economics. Graduated: 2014. Low GPA due to health issues with family member; had to work ~30 hours a week and provide for family.

**4) Significant college and post-college extra-curricular activities or community service, especially leadership experience. **

Post college: Board member of the LA chapter for a micro-finance non-profit and a mentor for low-income first generation college kids through another non-profit.

5) Important certifications like CFA, CPA, FSA, or CA.

N/A

6) Your post-MBA goal.

Work in development finance i.e. firms such as the CDC Group / World Bank that invest in emerging markets for development

Before I reply, I have a few questions:

1. Why are you planning to take the GMAT two more times?
2. Was there any trend to your GPA? Any time during your college when you didn't have to work and got better grades?
3. What do you think you can get on the GMAT?

Linda

"The Love Doctor" Hi Jen and Natalie,

Thanks in advance for your assistance. Could you please evaluate my profile and answer my questions below.

Profile: Australian, Eurasian, male

Target school: Columbia Business School for an August 2019 Entry

1. Work Experience:

• One years experience in S&T at a large local bank.
• Currently an investment analyst at a large asset management firm, have been here for a little more than a year.

2. GMAT: 740 (Q: 50, V: 41)

3. College Information: "Go8" university (one of the top universities in Australia), solid marks in a tough undergraduate degree (would estimate a GPA equivalent of 3.5-3.7).

4. EC: I volunteer at charity days but do not currently hold any leadership positions.

5. Important Certifications: Completed CFA level 1 and will sit CFA level 2 in June.

6. Post MBA Goal: Work at a hedge fund or asset management firm in NY.

Questions: 1. How are my chances looking? 2. What impact does being an Eurasian Australian have on my application? 3. Would it be better to apply in the early decision round or should I just wait until March 2019 to give myself more time to beef up my ECs? 4. Any ideas for community service and leadership? How would a 2 week overseas volunteer program be viewed? Would it help compensate for my lack of ECs? 5. Would a 760+ GMAT make a significant difference on my application? Was consistently scoring in the 750-770 range in practice exams so was pretty disappointed with my mark and am considering retaking the exam. 6. Any additional advice to strengthen my candidacy?

Thanks again for your help!

Hi the Love Doctor,

To answer your questions:

1. Your chances at Columbia are pretty good, although your amount of work experience is on the low side. Also I don't advise applying only to CBS. Also consider Booth. Wharton, Yale SOM, NYU, MIT Sloan, and Tuck.
2. Enhances it.
3. If CBS is your first choice, go for early decision. Don't wait until March.
4. It might, but I'd recommend you get involved with something over time and assume a leadership role in it. It could be a youth sports league, a religious organization, a political or environmental group, something having to do with the arts. A professional organization or alumni association would also help The list is endless. Do you have any EC's from college? The point however is to assume responsibility for something, not just put in time.
5. It might make a difference in terms of financial aid and certainly wouldn't hurt anything. However, if it's going to take time from #4, I'd prioritize #4.
6. As I said above, don't apply to just one program. Do get some off-the-job leadership experience.

You might be interested in https://reports.accepted.com/columbia_bschool_webinar</a">Get Accepted to Columbia, a webinar I gave a few months ago.

Best, Linda

"Hello Goodbye" Work Experience *
Ad sales (FB, Goog) 3.5 years, two promotions + very strong recs

• Teach for America - 2 years Math teacher

GMAT * 700 - retaking

Undergrad * Top 50 public, Honor's College. Business Major, 3.7 GPA (4.0 last two years). Took Calculus at cc this year and got an A

Extracurriculars * Board of Directors at ed non-profit. Ran marketing/analytics for political candidates, fraternity President in college

Target Schools

• HSW, Tuck. Considering dual degree's (HKS/HBS, Wharton/HKS)

Goal * Ed-tech start up in growth/strategy role

Any thoughts on dual degrees? I'll be 29 at matriculation so curious if a 3 year program is a stretch given that I'd graduate at ~32. Thanks in advance!

If you raise your GMAT, you'd be competitive at your target programs, and maybe even if you don't. Also consider CBS, Darden, and Ross.

Given your start-up goals I don't see your age as being an issue. If you think the dual degree program will help you achieve your goals, then I don't see a problem with it.

Do you have two years of FT experience now so it would be 3 years at matriculation?

3/19/18 - 11:10pm

"quixoticelixer5" Hello,

Thank you so much for doing this! I was just wondering how study abroad during undergrad is seen during MBA admissions, especially when it's for a foreign language. To be a little bit more specific, I am an economics major but am participating in an intensive language program abroad. The grades abroad are not factored into my UG cumulative grade, but I've heard that grad school requires ALL grades from UG, so some more light would be appreciated. How much is study abroad grades weighted?

Hi Quixoticelixer,

Some schools require all transcripts and others require just the school of record (the school that gave you your degree). Study abroad grades will not be a big factor even for the schools that ask for all transcripts. However, that doesn't mean you can coast through your SA curriculum. If you want to contact me by clicking on the "contact me" tab below to let me know the schools you are considering, I can tell you the schools that currently require transcripts from all schools (rather than school of record). Good luck! Natalie