Hi Linda,
was wondering if you could help me decide on which 2 of the 3 schools I should chose (in addition to my finalized list which includes Berkeley, Stanford, Columbia, Michigan)
I can't decide b/n Duke, NYU, and Wharton
I want to pick 2 but not all 3

When I first started this process I had my eye on Harvard and wharton, but discouragement due to my bad GPA made me aim lower. My goals essay is all about wanted to pursue a career in economic development/microfinance and I really want a school with a strong entrepreunership center becaause that's a huge interest of mine. I went to school in North Carolina, so I'm not too excited about Duke and going back to NC as opposed to a new place, but then again its a great school that will also know the rigor of my undergrad institution pretty well, and may be more forgiving of my low GPA. NYU- I live in NYC now and just didn't want to stay here for grad school unless it's columbia. too expensive and want to try a new city. Wharton- just think I already have too many ultra elite schools I'm applying to.

Here's my stats anyway:
700 GMAT (70% math, 96% verbal).
3.0 GPA from a top 30 undergrad
white female
working 5 years at 2 very prestigous Investment Banks in a highly quantitative role on a trading floor (not in trading or sales though)
Have passed a well regarded and highly quantitative exam certification in my profession which should explain away any concerns in my GPA since all my bad grades were in statistics/finance type classes)
Recommendations from current and former boss

Which 2 would you pick?

Hello Jennifer,

If you are interested in economic development/microfinance, Columbia should definitely be on your list, as you can look into taking courses from CIPA in addition to your regular MBA program. Plus, of course, Columbia is a great school.

It's actually interesting - I spent last 7 years in microfinance, and now am looking around for something a bit different.

Good luck with your applications.


h.