Non-Target Undergrad: Business School Advice

Hey all,

Looking for some advice on future career opportunities that could be available with hard work and dedication. I want to know which one might be best to take in getting to Business School.

Background

  • School: non-target state school (Think UC Riverside, U Oregon, Uconn etc.)
  • GPA: 3.5/4 and can reasonably get it to a 3.7 by graduation
  • Class: 2021 GMAT: Haven't taken yet, and understand that it isn't something I should underestimate when it comes to studying.
  • Profile: URM Hispanic Male
  • Extracurriculars: involved in SEO (diversity program to educate and help angle students in breaking into competitive careers) and a couple of organizations on campus that span from investing to working with the local community. Internships: Boutique Consulting firm in Asia (6 months)

Current Ideas to get to Business School

BB IBD/ER -->Business School--> Corporate Strategy/Tech BB IBD/ER-->move up?--> Business School--> Corp. strat/tech TFA (Teach For America)--> Consulting (unsure of how difficult the jump will be)--> B- School--> Corp. strat/tech

Thoughts

All of the above are ideal situations, that I understand will be difficult to get. I know that I can get some interviews through networking (have previously), what I don't know is what idea do you all think would be the best path to get to business school. I was recently contacted by a recruiter for TFA, and after our call I did some research and it seemed like a pretty unique way to get into Business school. I know websites will only market the success stories, but it still seemed like an interesting opportunity with great networking and professional development opportunities, all while giving back. I would like to think I would be a competitive candidate at some top schools if I get a stellar GMAT score. I would like to hear any perspectives, experiences, and suggestions on what I could do to best leverage my chances and what schools you think I could be a competitive applicant at.

Business school list

Reach

  • Harvard
  • Insead
  • MIT
  • Columbia
  • Chicago: Booth

Reasonably competitive at (maybe)

  • Oxford
  • Dartmouth Tuck
  • Duke
  • NYU
  • UCLA

    Any and all input is appreciated!

6 Comments
 
Most Helpful

If your question is "Given what I've done to date and a competitive GMAT score, will TFA harm my chances at a top MBA program?" the answer is "no." It could actually enhance your chances by being distinctive, showing commitment to your community, and providing excellent leadership opportunities.

Did I answer your question?

Linda Abraham President, Accepted | Contact Me | Admissions Consulting

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