Master in Business Analytics Profile Evaluation

Question

Hello,

Background and nationality: 24 years old, Turkish
Undergrad Information: Koç University (top level university in Turkey) BA in Economics. GPA 2.45/4.00
GMAT: took twice
-710 Q:49 V:37
-660 Q:50 V:30
Work experience and leadership: Summer internship at one of the largest investment banks in the country. Started my own mobile gaming company 6 months ago. Will work as a management trainee at an elite investment bank this summer. I still have not decided between an Ms in Finance or Business Analytics.

Target schools: 
-Duke Fuqua MQM
-Georgia Tech MS in Analytics
-USC Marshall (MS in Business Analytic or Finance)
-Vanderbilt (Finance)

I know, I should decide between which program first rather than which school. But still it would be great to have opinions on my profile. Also I am open to suggestions.

cultureshock5889 · Answer

Hi,

Strengths 
1. GMAT
710 is a really good score. A good comparison would be the average GMAT of the admitted class for each of the programs you are applying for. If you are above the average, I would say it is a safe score. If you are below the average, it might be a bit challenging due to your slightly lower GPA.

2. Work experience
Investment banking is very competitive, so getting experience there is a good indication of your capability. Even more interesting is the gaming company. I think this could form a vital part of your essay, where you try to highlight your skills and development.

Weaknesses 
1. GPA
Not much you can do about this since it's done. But I would not worry too much. Your GMAT is strong and work experience is good. Maybe you could do a few courses online. You could do a few coursera/edx courses to showcase your academic potential.

Generally, the schools/programs you've shortlisted are good. But as you said, it would be good to know which you prefer. To do this, it would be helpful to consider two things:
1. Your interests - it's always easier if you genuinely enjoy the academic elements of the program
2. Your career goals - if you plan on staying in investment banking, Finance might be more relevant. If you're thinking about other options (consulting, analytics, etc.), then business analytics might be better. If you're still unsure, that's fine. No rush in making a decision. It might be good to apply for both and see the offers you get and decide at the time.

hellothere88 · Answer

For MS in Business Analytics programs, should I apply with (overall) higher GMAT score but lower quant score or vice versa or both?
My GMAT scores: 700 (Q47/V39) and 680 (Q49/V34)

DSinghR · Answer

An overall higher GMAT score would be better.

DSinghR · Answer

Also, in case you haven't cancelled your previous scores (the 680), the schools you send your GMAT scores to via mbacom, will be able to see all your past scores too.

hellothere88 · Answer

but i assumed business analytics program focuses more on the quant part? I cancelled the score

DSinghR · Answer

it wouldn't hurt to check with the admissions team directly about this (trust me they'd be able to help you the best here). Also, as you're aware, there isnt so much so a different between Q47 and Q49 (50 and 51 would had been a big difference) while a V39 and a V34 indeed have a rather massive difference.

Again, to gain definite clarity, speak to the admission teams.

Let us know what they inform you.

mylajuun · Answer

Thank you so much!

fugitincidunt · Answer

Thanks for sharing your valuable feedback on business analytic profile evaluation.

Master in Business Analytics Profile Evaluation

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