Hi there,
Thanks for posting and sharing your profile. Congrats on that 740 GMAT! That definitely helps
.
Based on the info you've shared here, I see the following strengths thus far...
-GMAT
-solid work experience
-quantitative and analytical skills
-some extracurriculars/interests/light community involvement
-CFA
-less-common nationality/ethnicity
Potential weaknesses:
-nothing glaring; community involvement could be stronger
-can build out your goals further (short vs long term post MBA? explain exactly what you'll gain at the MBA to reach those?)
-general challenge to stand out among others with similar backgrounds
Unknowns:
-essays/recommendations/interview (lots of opportunity here to make an impact on your admissions decision!)
-more on your specific achievements and where you've made an impact during your professional experience
-more on your passions and personal story (could be areas where you do stand out from others; good avenue to brainstorm about)
-international experiences? (these can make an impact if you are able to share how they shaped you and your perspective)
In terms of undergrad and companies less well-known... first of all you can and should describe anything relevant about either one in your applications where it makes sense. Secondly the admissions committee is used to assessing schools and grades within your given country's context, so I wouldn't worry too much about that. In terms of ethnicity you can likely list all relevant and leave it at that.
As for leadership, it could be stronger but you should also think about any ways you've led someone; influenced someone; made an impact; went above and beyond what was expected of you; taken initiative.... any of those could be characterized as leadership. Take some time to really brainstorm about who you are; what are your strengths and weaknesses; what are you proud of professionally and personally; how have you made an impact; what will you bring to the class that is unique. The answer to many of those COULD be the difference that leads you to create some outstanding and memorable essays that make the difference in the admissions decision. Overall things are stacking up pretty nicely for you, but at top 5 programs where it is SO competitive... it can come down to how you compare to other applicants; and what those reading your application think of you and what you'll contribute to the class. HBS and Wharton in particular will likely be difficult, yes... and the others you've mentioned won't be easy either. You may want to add 1-2 schools outside the top 8 or so (just rough #'s here) for back up options. Do some research and see where you feel you truly fit well... that can make the difference too! Show the school you really know them well and know why you should go to THEIR school versus others.
Good luck, keep us posted, and let us know how we can help further!
_________________
Jen Kedrowski
mbaMission Senior Admissions Consultant
17+ years in MBA Admissions Consulting; 40+ positive reviews on GMAT Club
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