Profile Evaluation for UCLA FEMBA & USC PM.MBA

Hey SOCALMBA2013! Thanks for reaching out for some input into your profile. Provided you nail the essays, your profile should be totally suitable to both of those programs. The USC P/T MBA is easier to break into than Anderson's but both are flexible on issues like the GMAT and they should be very receptive to your profile. Your grades in college are solid and your work experience and CPA are excellent preparation for the MBA.

It's also good that you're retesting - not that a stratospheric GMAT score is needed for these programs (it's not) but more because we think you can do better on the verbal. Your IR and AWA are solid and your quant is fine. A little improvement on the verbal side and you could possibly even break the 700 mark. You don't need to worry about getting a massive high total score for these programs so don't put a lot of pressure on yourself in that regard; we've even see people get in with a GMAT in the range of your first test. We still like that you're retaking it though because it shows dedication; you're not willing to settle, you want to go for broke. That counts for a lot. And a higher score always makes the adcom's decision easier.

The other reason we're happy to see a retest in the works is because you don't have to cram in a Round 1 application. The P/T programs get fewer apps and there's often space available in them much later in the season. It's not the same craziness as the F/T MBA where you need to hustle to apply as early as you can. So take your time and do it right, and you're going to increase the chances that you get a happy outcome.

The essays will matter too - and in particular, explaining why the P/T track is the right fit for you. You'll want to both explain the post-MBA goals, but also if you can, show how you'll be able to use the bschool education in real-time as you progress in your current career. Sometimes people can even point to an anticipated promotion or new responsibilities to come at X point in their futures, and build that into the "why MBA" pitch. If you can show why the MBA is going to position you for a particular future career, AND how it's going to help with whatever you're doing today, you'll be in the strongest position.

Finally, having a clear understanding of what these two schools offer and how they're unique, and integrating those elements into the essays, will go a long way. You've probably already gone on campus and done the info session etc.; make sure to reach out to the schools and learn all that you can about them. They always like to see that, and for a local candidate it's very important to do as much networking as possible.

Hope this helps - mostly we just are saying "yes yes yes" you're on the right track - let us know if there's anything we can help with and GOOD LUCK!
EssaySnark

PS: the transition from music major -> business is interesting - that's something schools often would be eager to know about - see if you can build that into the essays in some way, if possible.