Help! New to site & just took GMAT--where should I apply?

Question

Thanks to the help of some great folks on this site, I was able to efficiently prep for the GMAT and scored a 700 (7 IR, 47Q, 38V). I have a 3.4 GPA in chemistry and 2 years work experience in energy and risk management and am looking to gain a robust business acumen to propel a career change.

Can anyone help me with programs where my stats would be competitive? I've done some research on websites to find average GPA and GMAT scores, but there are so many programs out there I feel a bit lost. I feel like my score opens up some doors to top-tier programs but I am just unfamiliar with where might be a good fit for someone with my profile.

Thank you in advance to anyone that is able to provide some insight. This website is awesome and you guys are seriously amazing

PersonalMBACoach · Answer

KSWolf,

In order to give you specific recommendations, a bit more information would be necessary. You can either post here or send me a private email at [email protected] if any of this information is sensitive. Looking forward to hearing from you.

- What firm do you work for?
- How has your performance been at work relative to peers?
- What undergraduate school did you go to?
- What do you want to do after b school?
- Do you do extra-curriculars?

Cycle14 · Answer

This feels a bit like a rework of a Groucho Marx quote: "I only want to apply to a business school that will accept me".

While there's an element of common sense about your thinking, I wouldn't restrict yourself too heavily. Also, you might have a personal story or essay writing ability that adds real value beyond the numbers you list. I like the idea of working out what your career goal is in more specific terms, then contemplating which schools might be best aligned with helping you meet that goal. Beyond that and equally importantly, which have the kind of culture that will allow you to flourish?

Good luck!

CriticalSquare · Answer

Hi there!

You're on point in that your academic profile puts you in position to earn an MBA at a great school, but, to actually recommend schools that would be a good fit for you with the limited information you provided is a bit tough! A great place to start are both your short and long term goals. You want to make sure that you're thinking about the schools that give you the best shot at achieving your goals. Look at specialization, companies that recruit, recent and past alumni to gauge whether the school could help you take the next step in your career. From there, we can get into the details and short-list some programs based on your stats as well as your professional and personal accomplishments. Feel free to provide me with more details on this thread, or, if you'd like to chat, sign up for a free consultation below. Best of luck!

KSWolf · Answer

Thank you all for your responses. I would like to explore management consulting/finance, for some idea of programs that would be a good fit.

Also, at this point, most deadlines have passed for fall 2015 start. Because I took my exam last Saturday, I was able to submit applications for 3 schools:

-SMU (Cox)
-Cornell (Johnson)
-University of Kansas School of Business

I don't think it's possible to get more applications in for a fall 2015 start date, which brings a question: would I be better off waiting and applying for fall 2016 at some top 20 programs? If I am admitted and offered scholarship, obviously that is something to consider as well. I just want to make sure I am making the best decision for my career, and if waiting until 2016 is the smarter decision, I'm happy to do it--you only get to do your MBA once.

Help! New to site & just took GMAT--where should I apply?

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