Hi sobriquet,
Thanks for posting. Hope the following answers your questions:
Consider this profile of a business school applicant:
3.7 GPA from Duke
730 GMAT
3 years in investment banking at Goldman Sachs
On the surface, most would agree that this sounds like a great applicant. And she is a great applicant—solid essays, strong recommendations, a polished presentation in her interview. The only problem is that she is competing against all of her fellow all-star Goldman analysts, as well as analysts at other top banks.
Top schools are seeking diversity. No matter how excellent, they will not accept all candidates with similar profiles. If you are in this boat, one question weighing on your mind is probably how to set yourself apart from the rest of the talent in the applicant pool. Fortunately, because the essays play an important role in this process, the resume details featured above are just the beginning. In your essays you have a great opportunity to let your unique voice come through and demonstrate how you are different from your competition. It is these details that can truly make a difference for you.
You may have the same basic job description as many others, but what did you do with that job? Were you promoted? How did you find better ways to accomplish tasks? Did you act as a mentor? Were you a leader? Did you propose great ideas? How did you gain the respect of others?
Regarding your extra-curriculars, I recommend you read this case study:
https://www.stacyblackman.com/2011/07/28 ... ctivities/Regarding your 3rd question, the position you have will make an impact on your candidacy (this relates to the point made above).
Hope this was of help. If you would like, we provide free 30 minute phone consultations here:
https://www.stacyblackman.com/contact/Cheers,
Conrad and the
Stacy Blackman Team