thoughts on my situation
I graduated from a decent state school (think Illinois or Indiana) with a Finance degree and a 3.5 GPA. I interned at a boutique in NYC, accepted a full time offer and worked there for ~6 months. I was fortunate to have been offered a lateral position at a mid-tier BB (think CS / Barclays), and I've been working there since March. After banking, I have confidence that I'll get into a decent MM private equity shop.
Now, assuming I have aspirations of going back to bschool, what type/tier of school do you think are possible?
Clearly, GMAT could be a big factor, but unfortunately, I've always succeeded with hard work and a good attitude, but my test taking skills are pretty poor (1200 SAT - 670M/530V). I've received top bucket, and I'm certain I'd get great reccs from my superiors, but I'm not sure how much weight that will have given my academic history.
Was hoping to get some thoughts on my situation. Not even sure it would be worth it to go to bschool, but if it is something I wanted to pursue, do you think I'd have a chance at a top 25? top 15?
Thanks in advance.
Top 25, I would say most likely - especially if you can crack a 650+ on your GMAT.
Top 15 and especially Top 10, you are going to have to provide much more info. Essentially, your GPA is solid, not great, you went to a decent school, but, again, not great. Your coming from IB with, I'm assuming, good experience, although you'll be competing with bankers from top schools and equal or better BBs. Without taking the GMAT, it will be tough to say how that will help or hurt you, but, at a minimum, you should be shooting for a 700+ given the rest of your stats.
All of that said, it is still very much up in the air since ECs, leadership experience, etc and how you tie it all into your essays all play a big factor in your applications.
Strictly looking at the hard stats and work experience, assuming a 700+ GMAT, top 25 is definitely doable, top 10 you will have some difficulty for sure without strong essays and leadership/EC experience.
I would stick around at the BB for another year or two before you go to B-School. Just study and get above a 700, then T10 should be in your reach. Be sure you have good ECs outside of work (volunteer, start a business or a blog, call a foreign minister and ask to work on a project). Stick out and don't stop learning at work.
Given your stats that you've mentioned thus far, I think the GMAT will be a substantial factor for you. Your GPA is average, your school is average, and you work in a very "above average" and demanding job. So, given your profile, it is hard to say whether you're just hardworking or you're hardworking AND smart. A high GMAT will signal that you're not just hardworking, but intelligent, and maybe you didn't find the drive until after you graduated.
I think a 700+ will make you competitive in the top 10. Without it, I'd say you still have a chance, but it starts to diminish rapidly the further away from 700 you go.
Also - don't overcomplicate the GMAT - it's a game...you sound like a smart guy...learn the rules of the game, practice and you should come out alright. You should surly take a shot at the top ten...and then pick a few safties. It will boil down to your GMAT, essays and recs. Do you have a compelling reason to go to B-school now?
Hi pacopacopaco595,
I would not be overly critical of your GMAT score, particularly because you have not yet taken a sample test. There are a number of great GMAT prep courses that you can take to improve your score.
With regards to your application, I would focus on the GMAT test and the story you would like to craft for an admissions team. There is nothing you have written that suggests you could not be accepted into the program of your choice.
Please let me know if I can answer any other questions.
Best,
Conrad and the Stacy Blackman Team
Ya man if you are motivated and have great study habits you should at least get 650+. Easily 700 if you know your stuff.
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