msahopeful wrote:
I finished college a couple years ago and had no sense of direction, so I graduated with a 2.2 gpa with a degree in economics one of the state schools in NC (not UNC). Haven't done anything significant, but started taking classes again starting summer session II. GPA of these classes (18 hrs so far), which include accounting prereqs and organic chemistry, is a 3.945.
Took the GMAT yesterday, and got a 720 (Q46 and V44, I think, could be reversed). I'm applying to UNCW, whose average GMAT score is 555 and has a job placement of 97%, including big4 and regional firms.
Should I apply anywhere else? Do I have a chance at the better schools, or should I just stick with UNCW? Also, does where you receive your masters make a difference? Obviously it does prestige wise, but if your school has good placement, does it?
The long-term plan is to do this 1 year MSA program, finish up and sit for the CPA, get a job with a big4 firm, get WE and then apply for a MBA just before the GMAT score expires (prior to Feb 2017). Is this plan plausible? Or am I taking too many things for granted?
Are you thinking of applying for masters of accounting programs? If so you need to go for prestige. I know that it sounds in opposition to the standard that the accounting profession is less of a prestige snob but, coming from a background with such a low gpa and gmat you need a turnaround story. Trust me, employers will take note when they see a 180 degree turn from 2.2gpa from non-target to a 3.5+ from a quality program. Plus if you ever want to go for an MBA, PHD, or go into banking, you will need a school that has a great network and is well known. You can do it, just have to work hard. Good luck.