hey all, long time lurker first time poster. Hoping to contribute value to a lot of discussions in the future.
Here is my dilemma, please be gentle - any thoughts, suggestions, opinions are TRULY appreciated!
I'm currently studying for the GMAT, aiming for a Fall 2009 admission (applying to schools in the US and UK).
My problem is my atrocioiusly low GPA (1.9) due to a lot of mitigating factors (FT job, had to pay bills, a top school in Canada (one of the top 3), very challenging quantitative program). My marks picked up during the last 3 semesters, but unfortunately not enough to offset a very poor performance during the first few years. I already researched previous posts on the forum re this, but I believe my situation is unique.
Other factors:
- solid work experience (financial analyst) where I use my quantitative skills on a daily basis. I'll have 3yrs of FT experience on my current job by Sept 2009. I can get great recs from my boss/co-workers - I have been promoted 3 times over the past 2 years and now write market overviews which are used nationally.
- extra-curricular involvement, where I can argue the case that I have leadership potential
- GMAT: doing really well on practice tests right now. I think that realistically I can easily get in the 720-740 range on game day. Will try for more, but being realistic this is probably a good estimate (when you're providing suggestions please keep that GMAT score in mind)
Assuming I also write very coherent and well-put together essays, what are my chances?
It seems that the only red flag (and that is HUGE, I know) is my undergrad transcipt. I wish I went to an easier school in retrospect and did things differently, but it's too late now.
Questions:
1) What are my chances of being accepted at an elite and near elite school?
2) Are there any schools (perhaps the ones that employ case study methods of learning) that are going to put less emphasis on my academic record in their admission decision?
I truly appreciate everyone's insight. I am at a crossroads in my life right now due to personal circumstances and I really really hope to start a program next fall. I'm looking forward to everyone's thoughts.
Thanks so very much again