Hi Greg and team,
Could you kindly review my profile for the 2019-2020 admission cycle?
I apologize for the very lengthy post.
My profile/stats:
* 28 this year, Southeast Asian (Chinese) based in Singapore
* GMAT: 710 (Q49, V36, IR7); first "blind" attempt; will be looking aiming for 750-770.
* GPA: 3.1/4.0; one of the top colleges/target schools in Singapore, this is my primary concern
* No. of WE: 3 years as of now (started upon graduation in May 2016).
>> Spent 1 year in the wealth management division (front office sales) of a tier1 US bank
>> Was a top performer and earmarked for promotion at the end of the year
>> However, I have always wanted to work in financial markets. Hence, I left for a tier2 investment bank after 1 year of cold calling
>> Joined on contract. Performance was good and they created a headcount for me after 1 year.
>> Got promoted to senior analyst in my 2nd year. Given additional responsibilities to cover 2 sets of clients (essentially 2 men's job)
* Extracurricular activities during college:
>> Elected into student office during college. Initiated and led various signature events
>> Part of a major band in school. Invited for various paid gigs and even overseas performances
>> Took part in various case competitions and overseas study trips
* Extracurricular activities post-college:
>> Part of the same alumni band
>> Part of an alumni mentoring circle
>> Volunteers in a church - mentoring younger boys
>> Freelance as a wedding pianist
Post MBA goals:
* Short/medium term - consulting with MBB with a focus on public sector/government or financial services (am not fully certain on the focus to be very honest) in the US. I plan to stay in the US for a few years. Alternatively, I'd be happy to explore options in general management/strategy. I believe all my short term goals are realistic with a T15 MBA.
* Long term - I am not looking to start any company or join a VC/HF/PE. I personally believe I am better suited to working in a large corporate. Hence, I am looking for longevity within the mgmt consulting firm or move into a strategy/COO role in the public sector/financial services.
I would like to have an immersive experience at school. Smaller size, heavy focus on teamwork and collaboration. Strength in general management will be a plus. Target schools:
* Tuck - first choice. I've liked everything about them so far, from program to class size to job placements. Gives me the opportunity to initiate an interview and address my low GPA
* Kellogg/Haas - similar to Tuck. Worried about the low acceptance rate for Haas
* Darden, Ross, Fuqua - thought that these schools will provide me with the experience that I want. I have no concerns about that I will not able to achieve my immediate career goals through them. These schools though slightly lower on the rankings. I have to admit.. the arbitrary rankings still matter to me..
* Booth - recently added to the list. Am of the opinion that they are more forgiving on lower GPA.
Hoping for the following advice:
* What is your take on my school selection? Are there any schools that I should be looking at? Am I realistic with my selection?
* I am considering traveling to the US for the in-person interviews. Will this add any value to my application? This is primarily for my top 2 choices - Tuck and Kellogg (considering the schools are relatively nearby and both grant interviews to all applicants). I plan to visit any schools before joining any programs (assuming I get accepted!). Hence, cost and logistics are not concerns for me.
* Are there any areas in my profile that I can work on prior to my applications?
* Is there a need to address my low GPA in the additional essay?
Thanks much for your kind help!