cheetarah1980 wrote:
Why do you think your background is mediocre? From the looks of it you have a great GPA. That alone won't get you in to a school but it definitely won't be a weakness to overcome. Do you think you need to have found a cure for cancer to get in? I'm confused about what makes you feel you don't have a good chance.
I have heard that Top school look at many things. I don't know if I have everything it takes; actually I don't even what it takes. I have lead teams in my company but don't have a role of a manager at work first-of-all. Secondly, and perhaps my biggest fear, I have heard schools also see if you have lead a group/groups "outside work" like some social service community. I have never been involved in any social service activity. Moreover, since I came to US right after I got my undergrad degree, it took me sometime to make my existence here. Apart from with co-workers and few of the meetup groups, I am not involved in significant extra-curricular activities. Although during my undergrad, I was very active in extra-curricular activities - have **** load of stuff to quote - BUT that's past (5+ yrs ago!), who cares? I have heard that they are looking for individuals who can lead their extra-curricular clubs in their school, and network and participate in other activities. I know I am very extrovert person, but I just don't have many
achievements "outside work" that I can quote to prove! Although in past 3 years, I have joined a bunch meetup groups that do many activities but I don't lead any of those groups. That's why "I think" mine is a mediocre profile overall - despite great academics and great progression/role at work so-far, I am not sure how to project a niche. They will more likely choose one with a failed startup and not so good acads/current work, than me, no?