gg2 wrote:
Hello
I'm a new member of the forum so please excuse my ignorance. Just hoping for some advice...
I just graduated from an ivy (with a top ugrad business program..) in History (with distinction/honors). My GPA is a 3.94.
The only courses I took that are in any way business related are Calc II, microeconomics and macroeconomics which I received As in.
I actually entered college always with the idea of going into business in the back burner, but somehow got into the law route. I studied for my LSATs knowing it would be not be hard for me to gain acceptance into a top school only to discover that the law industry is a sordid mess at the moment and a huge gamble that I rather not take. Sadly, all this time wasted on preparing for law school, I missed the stream of recruitment and am still in the process of job hunting.
I'm looking into getting an MBA in the future and want to plan ahead.
1- Should I take the GRE or GMAT? If so, should I take it now that I'm still in study mode?
Should I still take the LSATs just to put it on my resume?
2-What should I do to structure my years before the MBA?
Well, the great news is that you came to your senses early on re: law. Better knowing now than later that it's not for you.
As for what you should do:
1. Either one. If you're sure about the MBA, take the GMAT. If you feel you may be open to other grad programs down the road, take the GRE. Most of the top b-schools now accept the GRE, and I don't think they're going to reverse that anytime soon (i.e. reverting to only accepting the GMAT).
2. Quality work experience is key. It's by far the most important thing going forward. As for what kind of jobs, that is entirely up to you. What's most important is that you're at a place that allows you to grow (giving you opportunity to learn and gain increasing levels of responsibility over time) AND just as important -- having colleagues and a boss that are supportive of your growth. Of course there's the reality of taking what offers you can get, but always look out for yourself and know if you're not in a supportive environment so that you know when it's time to look for another job. Again, work experience is key -- no amount of extracurriculars or volunteer activities will make up for the lack of solid work experience.