Hi there,
Thanks for your post - you're asking some good questions and they're the right ones. I'm going to try to address each of them in turn while still give you a holistic response. If you have any follow up questions or need me to clarify something, just let me know!
1) From a GMAT perspective, you have no choice but to crush it. With your GPA and age, they're going to really scrutinize that test score. It's great that you're doing well without studying but you need to get above the median for these programs if at all possible!
2) From an alternative transcript, yes, a couple of classes would help. It really depends on what you didn't too well in during undergrad. But a class in Stats / Advanced Stats or Calc for Business would really help. UCLA or Berkeley Extension courses would be good choices. You could knock 1 or 2 out before R2 apps are due in January.
3) Yeah, a lack of involvement isn't great but you're right, there's nothing you can do about it now. The next best thing is to talk to as many people at the target programs as possible and learn what those student groups are doing inside and out. Then you can make a case for how you'll get involved. Demonstrated Involvement > Well Researched Promise to Get Involved > Cursory Club Name Dropping - does that make sense?
4) The FP&A could be useful in that it helps you in recruiting if you're trying to stay in financial planning but move ahead. But understand the opportunity cost of pursuing it. I know you're shooting to do it in 2015 so maybe you can bring it up but words are...well, words. Still, probably worth mentioning especially because you're already IN financial planning.
5) Your recommendations - one of them can and should come from someone at that level. Someone who knows you really well who has watched you work. But is there anyone higher up who can talk about you from a strategic perspective? Really try!
6) Your goals make perfect sense. Make a strong case for why Tech but function to function, you match. So that's good!
7) If you crush the GMAT and get some courses under your belt and maybe line up a slightly better Rec #2, I'd say you have a shot at some of the top 20. Haas is a stretch. If you're passionate about them - throw them an app, but understand it's a realllllly big stretch for you.
I hope that helps! I think you have a busy few months ahead with the GMAT and the courses. In the meantime, check out the resources below to get your brain thinking in the right direction:
Free Detailed School ProfilesHow to Choose ProgramsWhat Adcoms Look ForAfter you have a GMAT score in hand, THEN let's chat. We'll get into the details and figure out which programs might be good fits! I understand you wanting to get into the best possible program you can so let's see what we can do about that
Bhavik
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22 Jul 2014, 17:42
