cheekychick wrote:
Hello I am new to this forum so if I am posting in the wrong section please forgive me.
I would like to apply to business school but would like a realistic idea of what schools I would be accepted to. Unfortunately, I do not have the pedigree or amount of preparation as most others who are applying. I originally intended on applying to law school so my undergraduate career is lacking in quantitative education. After taking practice exams I know I will do significantly better on the GRE, but will this hurt me in my admissions? Should I take extra time and try attacking the GMAT? In any event, here are the relevant details...
26 Years old, female, Eurasian
Undergraduate School: UC Berkeley
Undergraduate GPA: 3.98 summa cum laude
Undergraduate major: Political Science
Work Exp.: During my undergraduate and shortly after I suffered numerous health setbacks and had trouble getting a traditional job, but began working as social media management and branding consultant for small business. I also have been working for a very small payment processing start up from Europe as an account manager. Obviously none of my experience has the pedigree that you usually see from Harvard, Wharton, or Columbia applicants.
Volunteer Exp.: Have worked for numerous youth organizations and have taken part in fundraisers in an organizational capacity.
Why do I want an MBA? As I have gained work experience, I quickly realized my original career goals of law school were not what I really wanted to do. I would like to move into strategy consulting (I am aware that this is a very popular career and that there are others much more qualified than myself), and I feel that an MBA can help prepare me for that move.
My two concerns are whether or not taking the GRE will severely hurt me and, furthermore, what schools I have a shot at given my lack of work experience pedigree. I am really only interested in going to a top program given the cost of an MBA.
Thank you in advance for any advice and information!
If you are sure that you'll do far better on the GRE, then just take that.
As for your work experience, it's true that it's not stellar, but more important is that you show POTENTIAL for being amazing, as well as have other strengths in your profile. I cant really say how strong or weak your experience is, since I lack detail, but feel to write more, (and how long you worked in what position), and I'll let you know my thoughts.
Best,
JF