Which schools to apply to

You're overestimating the value of "diversity for the sake of diversity" at b-schools.

Getting a diverse class is important up to a point -- but it's not like some Roman Catholic priest is going to have a huge advantage just because he's the only one applying to Wharton.

Also, while there may not be boatloads of people from insurance applying, keep in mind that while it's not quite finance, it's an analytical job within financial services, and they'll see you in a similar light as other candidates from corporate banking, finance at a large company, accounting, and so forth.

To be honest, adcoms aren't immune to "glamor" -- and there's certain kinds of underrepresented jobs that have more sex appeal than others - fashion, music, film, sports, etc. And the kind of profile that they love the most -- the US military. Also, Wharton in particular gets a ton of wannabe finance types (and their close cousins - insurance, accounting, treasury, etc.) -- enough that they can afford to be very picky.

Again, I'm not trying to put down your profession, as you have a solid all around profile, but keep in mind that when adcoms talk about "diversity", they are really talking about the glamor industries, as uncouth as that may sound.

Of course, apply if you really want, but just know going in that you'll be a bit of a stretch.

Thanks Alex,

I was just put off-guard when you used the word "big" in front of the word stretch... I didn't think you put down my profession, it is just that I am really trying to look objectively at my profile, some people say my profile is great for top schools , and others say not to pull up hopes, hence the panicking and trying to apply to as many schools as I can. If i were to hire a consultant to help me with 1 application, which school do you think it should be.


Alex, I have the opportunity to enter the Alumni Board (country level) of the student association i was involved with during undergrad (probably work in CSR or other projects), do you think that would help a lot? Trying to fill the gap in my application;

-Academically: I think I kinda pass the test (first of my class), Teacher assistant to many courses
-Professionally, I have been promoted really fast (unusual in the actuarial world) and have more responsibility than it sounds (own many reports and tasks in the area, little to no supervision), in charge of product development, involved in reserves, pensions, etc...,
-Leadership is were my app falls... Kinda good during undergrad, but since then nothing really going on.

thanks a lot,

If you're really gung ho about applying to Wharton, go for it. No one is going to stop you. Just spend your energy focusing on convincing the adcom (rather than spending your energy trying to convince me or change my mind about your chances!).

In my opinion, you're going to be a big stretch - even with the kinds of things you're mentioning. You're likely going to get mixed opinions - that's the nature of this process, which is very subjective. In any case, just do the best you can on your applications -- that's all you can do.