Thank you for your thoughtful and encouraging response—it truly means a lot. I appreciate your advice on strengthening my application and the recommendation to consider the MAM program at LBS.
One concern I have is the weight placed on GMAT scores in the admissions process. While I understand its importance as a standardized benchmark, I wonder why it often appears to be a defining factor rather than looking at the profile holistically. Given my strong quantitative background, including rigorous coursework in mathematics, operations research, and algorithm design, complemented by industry experience and certifications in Machine Learning for Trading and Data Science, wouldn't that demonstrate my capability to handle the analytical rigor of the program?
Do you believe LBS admissions would view this proven quant experience as a substitute for a higher GMAT score for the MAM program? Additionally, how can I better present my profile to convey my readiness and value to the program after being previously rejected from MiM?
I am genuinely committed to joining LBS and contributing meaningfully to its community. The MAM program is my final chance to be part of the school’s early career offerings, and I would love to understand how I can improve my candidacy.
Thank you once again for your time and advice!
MBAandBeyond
ItsPA1
Academic Background:- Undergraduate Degree: First Class with Distinction in Computer Science from a top 150-ranked Indian university.
- Graduation Year: 2023
- GPA: Top 10% of the graduating class 8.93/10
- Professional Specializations :
- Machine Learning for Trading (New York Institute of Finance)
- Data Science for Investment Professionals (CFA Institute)
- Entrepreneurship Specialization (UVA Darden)
- Currently pursuing Business Strategy (UVA Darden) and Think Like a CFO (IESE)
- Certifications: 15+ courses from Columbia, Bocconi, Duke, UVA, and Google
Academic Achievements:- Selected for the university's Ready-Set-Go Program, affiliated with Northeastern University.
- Y-Combinator's Summer Startup School S22 batch.
- Achieved a top percentile in national aptitude assessments, including CoCubes (99% National Percentile, 100% Regional in Quant, Coding, English and Analytics).
- Got an offer letter from London Business School Launchpad 2025 cohort for my concept that I have been working on.
Quantitative Background (During Bachelor's Program):- Engineering Mathematics I: Calculus and Algebra (Grade: A)
- Engineering Mathematics II: Probability and Statistics (Grade: O)
- Engineering Mathematics III: Discrete Mathematical Structures (Grade: O)
- Engineering Mathematics IV: Numerical Methods (Grade: O)
- Operations Research: Linear Programming, Game Theory (Grade: O)
- Optimization Techniques: Classical and Dynamic Programming (Grade: A+)
Work Experience:- Shipping & Logistics: Industry experience in shipbroking, analyzing crude oil prices, and monitoring voyage routes and handling crude imports into India. Extensive exposure to international markets.
- Startup & Innovation: Developed an IoT-driven systems for sensitive environments (airline cargo, hospitals, and shipping). Collaborated with German and Austrian industry players, including a Lufthansa affiliate, to explore market solutions.
- Entrepreneurial Recognition: Concept recognized by F6S as a Top 11 Sustainable Strategy Startup and Top 8 Urban Mobility Startup in India and Mumbai respectively.
Key Projects:- Algorithmic Trading: Developed strategies based on Ichimoku Cloud and Moving Average Crossovers. Gained hands-on experience in data visualization using Python (Pandas, Matplotlib, NumPy). Recognized as one of the most innovative projects in the undergraduate cohort.
- IoT & Embedded Systems: Designed and implemented tracking systems for cargo monitoring in restricted environments using sensors, ML, and encrypted communication systems.
Extracurriculars:- Won Bronze in the Formula 1 Club for the fastest lap time and quiz competition at university.
- Active in global entrepreneurship networks and passionate about strategic innovation.
- Exchange program at Northeastern University and Summer startups school at Y Combinator S22 Batch.
Leadership & Initiatives:- Team lead for undergraduate projects, facilitating collaboration and technical problem-solving.
- Collaborated with international stakeholders for innovation and industry development in aviation and shipping.
GMAT Score: 600IELTS : 8.0Languages & Programming Skills:- Proficient in Python, Java, C, R, and SQL.
- Database Management and algorithm design experience from undergraduate studies.
Career Goals:- Short-term: Strategy consulting (preferably MBB or boutique firms). Open to venture capital roles with a focus on tech investments.
- Medium-term: Transition into venture capital to connect entrepreneurs with investors and foster innovation.
Reason for Reapplying:- My recent rejection from LBS MiM has motivated me to seek feedback from this community. Despite a lower-than-average GMAT, I believe my unique international work experience, strong entrepreneurial achievements, and academic background present a compelling case for top-tier MSc/MiM programs. Should I apply for LBS's MAM program after this setback?
Hi
ItsPA1 ! Sorry to hear about the LBS MiM rejection ! You seem to have a well-rounded profile, with impressive academic achievements, entrepreneurial recognition, and technical expertise. Your international experience in shipping and logistics, combined with innovative IoT projects and involvement in global entrepreneurship networks, sets you apart. However, to strengthen your candidacy for top MiM programs, improving your GMAT score is crucial, as a 600 will limit your chances. Additionally, refining your career goals to clearly explain why an MiM is the ideal fit for your aspirations will enhance your application. Consider focusing on your entrepreneurial journey and leadership potential in your essays, recommendations and alignment with the school values. With these improvements, along with your already compelling background, you can be well-positioned for success in future applications.
LBS MAM could be a good fit as well, as it’s more geared toward recent graduates with a strong academic background, who are looking forward to a Business/Data Analyst career across different sectors. Try connecting with the Student ambassadors for more insights. All the very best!