Hi guys.

Here's the deal, I'm almost 30 now and plan to do a 2-year MBA for a career change.
I'm a quant associate (trading risk) and plan to change to M&A.

I've been waitlisted on 4 great schools (Cornell, Yale, Michigan and Kellogg) and was admitted at IESE.
Also, I've just received the good news that I have a new job offer, to be an AVP in another bank (also in the risk dept), which is a formal leadership role (I do have some project leadership experiences now). So, if I choose not to go to IESE, I can take this role and earn more experience in leadership.

I'd like to know what you guys think. In the case of not being admitted in any of these schools, should I reapply or take the IESE's opportunity? Please note that by the end of the MBA, I'll be 33... is that too old?

You are a bit old to start a career in most investment banks. If you really want M+A, it may be better to look at internal strategy opportunities within companies. Most of the big banks recruit very young candidates into their traditional banking programs. This is something to consider if this is your goal. The placement aspect of your candidacy might be one of the reasons why you were waitlisted instead of admitted.

Kimberly Plaga
Senior Admissions Consultant
Manhattan Review

Thanks for the note, Kimberly
EDIT: I also consider Corporate Finance. Will the idea be more feasible next year? (31 at matriculation, 33 at graduation)?