TheIvyLeagueEdge wrote:
Ayushi_1 wrote:
Hello Experts!
I just wrote my GMAT and scored a 740 (V42, Q48). The QA percentile is a serious dampener at 69 and the IR is at the edge too (5 -55 percentile). However, I have no plans to retake the exam as I believe that this is very close to the best I can do. I need some serious advice about:
1. What are my chances for top rated schools?
2. What schools should I consider given I have financial constraints and would most likely require a scholarship.
On to my profile now - I'm an Indian female.
WorkEx - I have about 3.5 years of experience in financial consultancy (Duff & Phelps), where I carry out valuations of businesses, complex financial instruments and intangible assets. This is my first job and I have been promoted thrice. I'm currently working as a Senior Consultant and consistently rated as one of the top performing employees. Also the president of Internal Complaints Committee for my regional office.
Bachelors - Financial and Investment Analysis from CBS (DU). For those who don't know, its a highly competitive course (only about 30 general seats). I got a rank of about 50 out of 15,000 applicants to get in. Scored 70% in the course (not stellar, but not bad either)
CFA - I have cleared all 3 levels and will complete 4 years of experience in June and apply for the charter.
High School - 94% in XII and 92% in X
Social Work - I have volunteered with Make A Difference as a volunteer teacher and placements intern for 2 years. I was awarded as the best intern.
Co-curricular activities - I have been learning Kathak (Indian classical dance) since last 2 years, have certifications for the same. Further, I was an active debater during school, with the usual Head Girl badge.
Recommendation letters - I can source one from my MD (INSEAD graduate) and other perhaps from a client or direct supervisor.
I am currently considering NUS, HKUST, Wharton, Kellog, Columbia and (possibly) Harvard. I've dropped INSEAD as I don't meet their recommended criteria.
Thanks for taking out time!
Hey Ayushi,
You have already received a ton of decent advice. Adding on to that...
1. A good part of your admission will also depend on your Goals & your answers to those questions.
2. 740 is a decent score, though the quant profile will bring a slight hiccup (at worst). Your CFA (assuming you have cleared all levels in first attempts will be a great help. So will your WE.
3. Your LORs should preferably source from those who can claim to having directly supervised you, preferably for 6 months or more, and as recently as possible.
4. The GPA is slightly concerning; Take good consulting help to turn it around to your advantage.
5. A lot will depend on your accomplishments (will need more details).
Assuming an average profile, Harvard and Columbia will be challenging, but within reach. Schols will depend a lot on your application strength - That's where you get the best ROI for your money spent on Consulting. (By average, I don't mean mediocre profile; more like a modal profile of students in such roles).
As for NUS, HKUST etc, they are within easy reach, though how you demonstrate an alignment with your goals will really matter.
Best of Luck
Hi
Thanks a lot for responding, this is really helpful (and encouragin
)
1. My long term goals involve specializing in impact investing, especially social entrepreneurship in emerging economies. I'd love to work for something like Dalberg.
2. I cleared all levels in one go (thankfully) in 1.5 years.
3. My directors have been working with me since I joined so, I think that part is sorted
4. Yes, I would need help on that. Anything you'd suggest? I spent a lot of time with an NGO during college, is it a good idea to use that as background?
5. Accomplishments would include dance, public speaking awards and fast promotions. Unfortunately my company doesn't have a policy of awarding people.
I have an admissions consultant as a part of my prep package but will be willing to spend more if I don't like the quality. Hopefully will make it to a good school!
close
06 Nov 2017, 11:07
