bk-mba wrote:
Linda and GmatClub members-
I have attached a quick snapshot of my profile below. I have split it into different skill areas to give an idea how my essays would finally evolve.
Looking for your expertise to obtain a quick frank assessment and the type of schools that I can realistically get into.
Planning on Kellogg, Wharton, Harvard, Stanford,Tuck, Dartmouth, UMich, Sloan, U of Chicago,Duke, Columbia at the moment.
Still in the deciding process for the final checklist.
1. List of schools (stretch,realistic,safe) that stand out based on your expertise?
2. Do I need to re-take my GMAT? (690 (q-(48) 80%, v -(35) 77%), AWA- 5.0 (one attempt)).
I could increase it to 720-730 after another month of prep (I would be competing against IT-Indian candidates who average >700 - concern?).
Is it necessary?
3. Do I have a realistic chance for a top 10? What are my problem areas that I need to work on?
4. For my profile (Indian, Engg, IT etc. ) , which schools would be more competitive and which may not?
5. Other areas that you see from my profile I should pay more attention to?
To answer your questions:
1) Stretch: MIT, Wharton
Competitive: Kellogg, Chicago, Tuck, Darden, MIchigan, Duke, Columbia, Haas
Safety: CMU, UNC
I have deliberately left Stanford and HBS off the list. They tend to prefer younger applicants.
2) Given your high grades and level of professional achievement and the fact that a 690 is so close to most of the schools GMAT average, I don't think you need to retake the GMAT. Spend your time now on the essays and school research.
3) Your biggest problem is that you come from a very large and common group: Indian IT professional. Your diverse profesional experience and level of achievement, plus your extra-curricular activities should serve to distinguish you and make you competitive in the Top Ten.
4) See above.
5) Keep doing what you're doing. Other than that, write articulate, engaging, essays that reflect you. INterview well. Visit the schools if at all possible.
Good luck!
_________________
Linda Abraham
Accepted ~ The Premier Admissions Consultancy
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