Hi there,
Your academic stats are strong and in range for a school like Kellogg, though just slightly below their average GMAT. If you definitely want to do your MBA this next year, then have a backup school or two in mind too, just in case.
That's great you've been successful and had several promotions. Restaurant management / operations is not the most common pre-MBA field but that doesn't mean it's not valued. I think that depends on things like what results / impact you've had, how much leadership & people management experience you've had, how large are the restaurant's operations, etc. We've worked with successful applicants who have transitioned from a restaurant background so it definitely is possible. Depends too on what you plan to transition into -- you'll need to show you've done your research on post-MBA options, why your chosen path is a good fit for you, and what you'll be able to bring from your restaurant experience (e.g., working in brand management or operations for a consumer goods company might be a good use of your experience).
One other thing -- your volunteer experience is great, is any of that current? If not, is it possible to pick some of that up again? That could help to show continued involvement and that you're well-rounded.
Keep me posted with any other questions or feel free to sign up for a free phone consult (link below) if you want to discuss more about your profile.
Kate
border9 wrote:
I am a 33 year old, white male. My undergrad GPA was a 3.5 (social science) from a small private school, and I got a 710 on the gmat.
The main reason I'm posting here is because i'm curious if my experience is valued, I come from a restaurant background, and I do not want to do that forever.
I was hired as an assistant manger after I left college, was promoted to general manager 6 months later, then was promoted to director of operations 4 years later (thats where i am now). During that time I have been very successful.
I have done volunteer work as a mentor, and have worked in a private non profit school in mexico for three months.
What are my chances at a top 10 program, specifically kellogg?
Thank you.