Hi there,
Thanks for posting! Let's see if I can't give you some thoughts on your profile. Ok, here we go...
[Academics]From an undergrad perspective, you're ok. You went to a tier 2 program (and I'm not just saying that because I was ACC at one point
) and got a related but not particularly difficult degree. Your overall GPA is a little below average to average for most of the programs you've listed on your profile. Your GMAT, however, is a huge wildcard. It's great you're prepping and doing well on the mock exams. However, experience has taught us mock exam scores are directional at best. That's not to say you won't get a 700 or 720, but a score in hand will settle that. However, if you can get what you're targeting, that'll be great! Lastly - really like your senior year internships. Those should be called out.
[Professional]Let's talk about the big thing first. You're a little light on experience. You're also not working for a blue chip company - there's a difference between a mid-size advisory firm and a heavy-weight. However, you're on track for a promotion and that's good! Based on what you've written, however, I really can't comment much beyond this. I don't know what kind of work you've been doing, if you've led teams/workstreams/deliverables, if you're ahead of your peers for your promotion or behind them, or how you perform YoY compared to your peerset. Need a biiiiit more info here.
[Community Involvement]This is kind of light. Being a group activity leader is great but what does that mean? Also, what do you do for Habitat? There's a difference between volunteering on Saturdays and being a site leader. Also, are you involved within your company? If so, that counts here. Your staying active, while great, won't really count here. Things like kickball leagues won't really factor into your application much. They might be quick talking points or conversation interjects during an interview but there's no real good place in an app to insert them. There's also no real reason to.
[Goals & Schools]Your goals make perfect sense. There isn't much else to say here. They're realistic, ambitious, and something most of the programs you've listed can help you convert on. School wise, you're being smart in selecting school that not only match your goals but also your profile. Haas is a pretty big stretch but it's worth a shot. You should also consider Columbia and Tuck if you're looking for additional stretch program recommendations - the companies you've listed recruit there and they're well suited for what you want to do. However, I wouldn't suggest applying to all 3, pick 1 or 2. And, a lot of that depends on your GMAT. You should also look at UNC and Emory - both have fantastic health related focuses and are in the band of programs that make a bit more sense for your profile.
[Overall]You have the building blocks for a great profile. Without a GMAT, it's hard to give you a better answer but, if you rock a 720+, then your chances are pretty decent! You've provided a lot of information but it's hard to figure out impact and scope. That's what it'll come down to. Being in advisory services, I believe you'll have some compelling experiences but, if you're stuck in some bad projects, then that won't hold. Also, your community involvement is nothing special it seems.
I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any specific questions. If you're looking to apply this year, let us know if you need a hand. If you're planning on holding off, really focus on work and community involvement. Find ways to make those two sets of experiences absolutely jump off the paper!
Bhavik
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02 Jun 2014, 11:41
