jigarhp wrote:
Hi,
I took my GMAT earlier today and was quite disappointed to see a verbal score of 34, especially after studying hardcore for the past two months. I felt pretty confident going into the test but then executed poorly with time management on the verbal section. I was hoping to apply to top business schools on the east coast (Harvard, Penn, Columbia, NYU, MIT). After receiving my score, I'm a little concerned as to my chances of getting in. Based on my profile below, do you have any recommendations as to where I should apply and what my chances are of getting in to some of the schools I mentioned above?
I would also like to know what areas I should focus on in my resume and essays. I have a pretty extensive technical background (engineering, programming, cyber security, etc.) and have some experience with project management. Does it hurt my chances that I lack any background in traditional business areas (finance, marketing, accounting)?
Possible focus areas:
1) Northrop Grumman (3rd largest defense contractor) - I plan on utilizing my MBA to pursue more executive level positions within NG (tech director, possibly a CTO down the line). I have been promoted twice in the past year. NG is currently not listed as a major employer for most MBA programs. Are the top schools interested in expanding their list of employers in different disciplines? I haven't heard of too many executives in the defense industry that have gotten their MBAs from well known schools.
2) Experience working with several highly regarded Department of Defense agencies (w/ TS clearance). Does it hurt my chances that I fall in the Indian/Male/IT category? Or does the fact that I have a clearance set me apart from the rest since I will have more opportunities to make a direct impact in the security of the nation?
Program: MBA(FT)
Area of interest in MBA : General Management (focus on IT management if available, hoping to be more well rounded in non-technical business areas)
GMAT: 700 (34V 68%, 50Q 93%)
GPA: 3.75 Electrical Engineering w/ Minor in Math, Univ of Akron, OH (decent Eng school)
Work experience(WE): 4 years overall, mostly with defense agencies
Nationality: Indian
Age: 25
Gender: M
Extra-curriculars/community: Some volunteer work (no lead positions), currently working with my roommate on some entrepreneurship opportunities (mobile app development),
Schools I'm interested in (took out Harvard and Wharton):
School 1: Columbia ED (maybe ED will help?)
School 2: NYU Stern
School 3: MIT
School 4: Cornell
School 5: Yale
School 6: Dartmouth
You certainly have a chance at all the schools on your list but
CBS,
MIT, and
Tuckare less likely admits. You are more competitive at the other programs on your list.
I would need to know more about you to really advise you on essay content. If you are interested in guidance, please see Accepted's
MBA Essay Editing and Consulting.School are always looking to increase their diversity across a variety of qualities. Security clearance is not a major distinguishing factor.
Best,
Linda