Veritas Prep Admissions Consultant
Joined: 14 Mar 2013
Posts: 62
Re: Please evaluate my profile
[#permalink]
29 Apr 2013, 16:57
Ashriel-
Your candidacy looks promising, and here are my thoughts:
GPA: Looks sufficient
GMAT: You have complete control over this score. It is all about prep, and you have the time to sufficiently prep. I would take a course such as Veritas offers and focus diligently on maximizing your score. The GMAT is a critical component in our application.
Work Experience: Two years in research in Lithuania sounds quite interesting, adding to the tapestry of what differentiates you. However, a year or two more, perhaps in a business and or management/leadership capacity would make you that much more compelling. So I ask, why do you need the MBA now? The AdCom is going to want to know "why an MBA" your answer- because you want to move into management consulting. But, they also want to know "Why Now?" What is your reason? In your capacity as a researcher what skills have you developed, what leadership experiences have you had, where have you shown initiative? Have you done anything exceptional? Why You? What differentiates you from the other applicants? When you can answer all of this in a compelling manner, than you will be at your best to apply. You already have some solid answers, but do you need time to position yourself even more strongly?
Extracurric: Your extras/community sections look solid, but present them in a way where they shine.
Recommendations: Current advisor looks excellent, but be sure he sees you as an exceptional person and that he can point to real examples of what makes you exceptional. Generally an academic recommendation is not as advisable as another work related recommendation.
An MBA is a costly investment in your future. One well worth it. In order to maximize your chances at Kellogg, Haas, Duke, Booth you will want to reflect on all of the above as a starting point. I do believe that focusing on making each component I outlined above solid will allow you to attain a top 30 school.
Best of luck!