Profile evaluation for Ross (Michigan), Anderson (UCLA), Tuck, UVA Darden, Duke Fuqua, GMAT Focus 635, Technology background, from India

gmatclub

Comments 5 comments

1 year ago

Hi captain0612, thanks for sharing interesting details about yourself.

You already know that GMAT is a weak area and it's great to see you are already working towards improving that.

Your profile is a well-rounded blend of entrepreneurial, startup, and corporate experiences. The transition from a software role to a product-focused position at a health tech company shows your ability to step out of your comfort zone, a trait highly valued by top tier B-schools. I would have liked more clarity on the duration of your role as a co-founder. When detailing your entrepreneurial journey in applications, emphasize not only the challenges but also the professional growth and accomplishments within this venture. As a general guideline, top B-schools compare experience with start-ups or entrepreneurial ventures with the success or growth they have achieved during the time applicants have worked there. So in your applications, make sure you also highlight your professional development in your entrepreneurial venture along with the challenges you may have faced.

Something I would wonder about is if your plans are to start up your business in India, the US MBA does not seem like a great investment. Hope you provided more context around the kind of experience you hope to gain in specific "product roles" within the healthcare space and how they help you move closer to your long-term goals.

Feel free to reach out for professional guidance.

Best wishes

Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, former INSEAD admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn |Read Testimonials on WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message: +91 9971200927| email- mbaguideconsulting@gmail.com

captain0612

Thanks, Aanchal for your inputs!

Regarding my entrepreneurial experience, it's very recent—just a few months—so I didn't focus on this aspect as much. Instead, I emphasized my journey, struggles, and challenges in the Product space. Regarding the geography, I felt working in a much advance industry and system would provide me with insights and a first hand experience that I can leverage and bring-back with me.

Currently I am working on my GMAT, realising that it might drag my chances down. However, I am unsure whether the admissions committee would view this since it would be almost three weeks post-application submission when I resubmit my GMAT score.

Hi! Great profile. Really awesome experience and good that you have a strong brand from the past and the startup looks good on top of it. The biggest weakness is your score unfortunately. I am not sure if you can get a waiver at any of these programs as the score is below average for these schools and way below the Asia Tech applicant average.

Healthcare and healthcare consulting have been up and down in the US. Fuqua and UNC used to be the big drivers but even they tend to have single digits in hiring, meaning 10 or so of your classmates went there, so the network is fairly small. Many healthcare companies also do not sponsor which will make your fight a bit more tricky for both admissions and recruiting. Some Stats here: https://gmatclub.com/forum/best-mba-pro ... 21312.html

Fingers crossed! Let me know if any questions. Good luck!
-BB

Thanks, BB for the stats and the feedback. I got the same vibe from current students as well. I have considered this while shortlisting and contemplating the programs. I am optimistic, though, and hoping for the best!

Currently, I am working on my GMAT, realising that it might drag my chances down. However, I am unsure whether the admissions committee would view this since it would be almost three weeks post-application submission when I resubmit my GMAT score.

MBAandBeyond

Hello @captain0612

I hope you are doing good. Your profile is strong, with six years of diverse tech experience, leadership roles in sports and community building during undergrad, and a transition from Software Engineer to Product Manager. Your entrepreneurial spirit as a co-founder in an F & B startup and volunteering at the UN showcase initiative and a global perspective.

While your long-term goal of launching a health and wellness business in India is clear, consider refining your short-term goals. Aim for a higher GMAT score in your third attempt, and tailor your application essays to highlight unique experiences and how they align with each school's culture.

Strengthen international exposure mentions, and choose recommenders who can emphasize your leadership and potential in an MBA program. Overall, your profile is compelling, and with strategic application efforts, you should be well-placed for consideration at your target schools.

Good luck with your GMAT and application process!