mansoorfarooqui wrote:
Hi Linda,
I'm a Bachelors in Technology (Electronics and communication), completed my grad in 2007 and since then working in one of the leading semidonductor companies in the world (currently ranked 4). My area of specialization is software for multimedia devices like smartpones, tablets etc. Total Experience 5 yrs, promoted twice, and current role is Technical Leader.
I'm yet to appear for GMAT, later this month, targetting 700+.
I also have significant experience in community service like volunteering at ngos and participating in community services such as educating poor children etc.
Pretty active in extracurricular activities too. For example, i setup the only music band at my office and it's been a huge success, organized various events.
I have few concerns regarding my application:
First, i did schooling and grad from a university (among 7 central universities of India) where getting high scores is not common. For example, topper in tenth grade at my time scored just above 75%, same was the case during my graduation the topper scored like 8.6-8.7 out of 10. I scored arnd 70% n 8.0 respectively. So if my performance on relative basis is pretty good but it looks ugly just by looking at marksheets. What do you recommend me to do while writing my application for B Schools.
Second, i have keen interest in finance but no formal experience. I know ins and outs of technical analysis of cash markets and my predictions are also pretty accurate most of the times. I'm confused whether to go for career shift into finance or to choose something relevant to my experience such as technical marketing which aslo has huge scope. Please suggest me how should go about choosing it and something that would look strong on my application essay.
And please suggest me some good Bschools where i can apply. I would prefer UK/US and where i can get scholarship and among 30 top ranked schools
Thanks & Best Regards,
Mansoor
Mansour,
To answer your questions:
1. Your high school grades and record are irrelevant when applying to a U.S. (or UK) graduate program. Your college grades, however, are relevant and important. If your college is a reputable one and fairly well known, the top US and UK business schools will know how to read your transcript. It also wouldn't hurt if you include on your resume that you graduated in the top X% of your class. Obviously be accurate.
2. If you can write "I know ins and outs of technical analysis of cash markets and my predictions are also pretty accurate most of the times" then clearly you have some experience with finance. How did you learn the ins and outs of technical analysis and when have you made predictions or invested on that basis? What ever that activity is, it is the basis for your interest in finance. Furthermore, your engineering background has given you the quantitative skills necessary to succeed in finance. We have several resources for
career switchers. I recommend you start with
MBA Admissions: Application Advice for Career Changers.
I think it would be more useful if I recommend programs after you earn your GMAT score. It really does make a difference. So please post again after you take the exam.
Best,
Linda
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Linda Abraham
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