An update to my applications. I was accepted to Sloan and waitlisted at Wharton. I will be attending Sloan as it is the best fit for me, regardless if I am accepted to Wharton. I really learned a lot about the whole process.
I don't know what your thoughts are on my ideas, but if I had to reapply but here are my thoughts:
DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE GMAT. GMAT scores are way more important than schools let on. This is the only way schools have to easily compare themselves against other schools. GPA and undergrad programs are all not standard. The same with things like job titles and salaries. Close to a 700 and higher is a must. From my own research GMAT scores are rising.
Apply first round. Schools have a blank slate. this is just a very strong hunch from talking to several other admitted MBA's. In latter rounds adcoms are trying to make up a class profile so they may have enough or limited space for someone with a specific profile.
Lastly be yourself and stay relaxed, there is no rhyme or reason to how schools choose. I know several people who got into Harvard, but were denied without an interview at other top and lower ranked schools. You just need one admit. Believe it or not people actually kind of wished they only got into one school. When one gets into more than one top school, how do you tell the other top schools you don't choose no! most people wished they were in that situation, but it does suck!
And lastly rankings!
https://www.geocities.com/topmbaprograms/Top5MBA.htmThis was the school ranking that made the most sense!