J94GMAT wrote:
Hello,
Profile: Just graduated from Big Ten school, studied finance, plan on pursuing MBA in 4 or 5 years
- White Male, 22
- Will be starting work as an investment banking analyst at a MM bank
- GMAT first attempt - 690, Second attempt 720 (Q45 V44)
- solid leadership extracurriculars while at school
- Goal: (before MBA is --> better known IB --> PE) After MBA: PE
- Target schools: Tuck, Columbia, Booth, MIT, Cornell
I might be able to squeeze out an extra 10 or 20 points on the gmat if I retake and study for about 25 more hours, but would it more worthwhile of my time to try to improve my app other ways? Online classes/ non-profit involvement/ etc.? I know I am in a very competitive pool of applicants.
Hey dude,
So far soooo good.
For now, Id say dont worry about 10 more potential points on the GMAT. Its not that which will make the difference. More important is what you DO over the next few years:
- Kick ass at work. Okay this is obvious, but if you outperform everyone else, and are getting fast track promotions and nice awards and bonuses, this helps immensely.
- Do at least one if not two volunteer activities through the ENTIRE time! Not only will this make your profile strong, it will make you a better person!
- Keep up whatever other interests/activities you have.
- In and out of work, pursue as much leadership as humanly possibly - leading mentoring, recruiting, advising... anything at all like that.
Do all of the above, and you will be golden!
Best,
Jon