Hi, and thanks for writing! MiF programs are outside of
mbaMission's core area of expertise, so I'll focus on MBA. For an MBA, I'd wait at least 1 to 2 years since your work experience is on the lower end for typical full-time applicants. In this timeframe, aim for as much of an increase in responsibility and impact as possible and build strong relationships with potential recommenders.
Regarding schools to target, part of it depends on 1. The GMAT you achieve and 2. Your target geography - where do you want to live immediately post-MBA (I know you aren't particular, but recruiting does tend to have a geographic component, so this is worth thinking further about)? For the top 20 schools in the U.S. and abroad, as an Indian applicant you'll want to aim for a 730+ score.
Extracurriculars - it seems that you were heavily involved in college, but not sure how much of your involvement is post-collegiate from what you've written - the more substantive it is, the stronger your profile will be. Be sure to highlight your community impact on your resume along with your professional impact.
Regarding your goals - since you want to do corporate strategy, I'd target the larger consulting firms as your short-term post-MBA goal.
Hope that helps for now!
stuggle wrote:
Hi Team,
I am primarily interested in applying to MiF / MBA programs, and would like your invaluable advice on potential safe schools I can apply to. I am aware about LBS' MiF program, and am researching on my end as well, but apart from this course, do not have much of an idea as to how I should go about shortlisting schools.
Any guidance on how I can improve my profile, and pointers as to which schools I can apply to would be highly appreciated.
If I apply for a MiF, I would like to apply immediately, but understand that I will be better of biding my time before applying for an MBA.
My background is as follows:
Indian male, 24 years
Work-ex (everything in India)
1. Currently working with a luxury fashion and retail startup as a Strategy Consultant (7 months) (not a well known company)
2. 21 months with a bulge bracket Investment Bank in its Investment Banking team
3. 2 years as an intern with a Big 4 Firm's Deal Advisory team
Education
1. Chartered Accountant (similar to the American CPA) (Top 5% of the class)
2. Completed all 3 levels of the CFA Program, USA
3. University (Bachelors of Commerce, graduated with the highest possible GPA, Top 5% of the class)
4. High School (Stood 3rd in Mathematics, Accounts, and English across the State)
5. School (Top 3% of the class)
ECAs
1. Represented and captained my school at various football and athletic tournaments, and was also selected to represent the state and college football teams
2. As a volunteer with 2 non-profits, taught English, Mathematics, and Football to school going children. Also, involved in community outreach programs through the firms I have worked at
3. Elected to the Development Councils at work and university, where I helped organize multiple events
4. Possess a keen interest in personal finance, and actively aid friends and colleagues in charting out financial plans for themselves
5. Black belt in Karate, have participated in and won the Best Speaker award during Model United Nations, etc. (but back in school, so this won't carry any weight)
GMAT
700 (This is on the lower side, and for programs like the MiF at LBS, I plan on applying without this)
Goal
To work in Corporate Strategy at a multinational firm, and eventually move up to the C-Suite. An MBA would certainly speed this up, and equip me with the management skill set that will come in handy.
Not really particular about geographies, as long as the school is a good one.
Constructive advice on how to improve my profile, and which schools I can target is greatly appreciated.
Thank you!