sdiazl wrote:
Hello,
I was hoping you'd be able to give me some advice regarding MBA applications. Here is a bit about me:
- dual citizen (Canada and Colombia)
- B.A in Economics from Wilfrid Laurier University, graduated in 2010. Unfortunately my GPA is low - not because it was hard for me but mostly because I didn't take it seriously. There are some signs of what I'm capable though, with some really high marks in tough courses. Another negative is that I never passed Calculus - I've been considering retaking a Calculus course - first time around I did not take it seriously.
- I did manage to get into a post-graduate program at a college in Computer Programming, which I did very well in (top of class). Would this factor in at all?
- I'm currently working for a mid-sized market research company, but on the technology side, basically as a programmer - I've been here for over a year and was promoted within a year
- Scored a 670 on the GMAT (Q45,V37) and I am considering retaking it. I do feel I could cross the 700 range.
- Very little extracurricular activities - although looking to start a few.
- My goal is to study abroad - ideally in the United States or in Europe - but somewhere that is on the same level or better than the top programs in Canada. Is this realistic?
Thanks very much and looking forward to your response.
The good news it that European universities are not as competitive as American universities. Although there are varying opinions about the usefulness of a European MBA in North America, the most important thing to consider is whether the types of positions you want get hired for at the schools you look at.
A 670 is respectable, but scoring above a 700 will be a big help. I also recommend taking that calculus course and getting an A. Your master's GPA is definitely taken into consideration, so if you did well as you say, that will help.
It sounds like you should apply to a mix of Canadian schools (Schulich, Rotman, Desautels), European Schools (Said, LBS, IE), and American schools (top 15-30 schools). I can't speak to the international programs, but the domestic ones definitely are known for different things. If you could clarify your long-term career goals that would help.
How many years experience do you have?