Finding light in a 590 (debrief)

This GMAT debrief is quite particular, especially given the score that is far below the 700 I had aimed for.

First, I would like to thank the forum and its members for their contribution to helping others achieve their goals in both the GMAT and application process to the schools of their dreams.

In January '09, I began my GMAT prep with hopes of achieving a 700+ score. I gave myself plenty of time to prepare as my work keeps me from anything but a regular study plan (often working in SE Asia and Canada - lots of travel). A small note, my profile is quite particular (WE non-traditional industry, manage/oversee a company of roughly 150 employees, lots of EC - community involvement, etc.). In June 2009, I took the test and scored a 570 (Q36, V35 - ac'ed AWA). Simulations I took prior to that test indicated that I would score in the mid-600s.

MGMAT (Q range 40-46, V 38-44)
1: 630
2: 640
3: 680
4: 690

Nerves got the best of me and I was utterly disappointed. I decided to retake the exam, sometime in August (today) prior to leaving to China / applications. I reviewed error logs, redid all MGMATs (high 600's - consistent performance in both Q and V), score well on GMAT Focus (40-48) and did several Challenges. GMAT Prep was also very encouraging with high 600s. (Q and V were both in the low 40's) . I finally was ready to beat the GMAT.(Note, I am a native English speaker and performed well during my undergrad in corporate finance).

Today, as I was under the impression of doing great, I scored 590 (V40, Q31). The irony, I walk away from this experience with something to share with the GMAT club.

My goal to apply to business school will not be deterred by this score. (Believe it or not, even to the schools on my target list). When I left the test center, I felt like I had done everything possible to prove to myself that I would succeed. I continue my application journey with a strong held belief: anyone can apply and make it to the school that they want. Countless stories of people I personally know at HBS, CBS and NYU gave me hope as their profiles suffered from similar shortcomings (bottom of the range outside 80%). Hopefully, I will be that exception.

Brief, believe in yourself, follow what is important to you and trust that regardless of the result, you will learn from this experience. The MBA will not secure your potential as a leader or business person but rather help you reach it.

I wish you all the best in your applications! I'll keep you posted.
(For any non-believers, I hope to become the exception so that other members who can't add their name to the list of 700+ still have hope of making it ) I don't plan on retaking the GMAT - I'm moving on!

555