Hi
MsBanker,
Thanks for reaching out with your profile. You've got a strong GMAT from a well-regarded university, and plenty of quantitative coursework (as evidenced by your high Q score too). For top schools, we do see many applicants from India with even higher GMATs, so that is something to think about, especially as you target the more selective schools like Booth, INSEAD, Kellogg.
In terms of work experience, I'm intrigued by how you moved from a science & engineering background to strategy roles in banking. Seems interesting! I also like that you've worked at two well-known firms, and you've gained global experience, which is valued by all programs but especially ones like INSEAD and LBS that have such international cohorts of students.
The work gap will be something you'll need to explain. Some schools like Booth have a question about employment gaps on the application, so you can address it there. If a school doesn't ask directly about it, then you can explain it in the optional essay, or additional info section. Also, I would look at the class profiles and make sure your total amount of full-time work is in range (average is typically about 5 years). If you're far off from that, you may need to add more explanation about why now is the right time for you to pursue your MBA.
In terms of schools, I think you've got a good mix!
Hope that helps,
Kate
MsBanker wrote:
Demography - Indian, Female
Undergrad - IIT Kharagpur - Manufacturing science & engineering, GPA 8.38/10, minor in maths and computing, gold medal by the president of India
Gmat - 720 (QA - 50, VA - 35)
Work experience
- Strategist at Goldman Sachs Global Markets
- Associate at HSBC Global Markets (2.5 years)
- presented my project to the team offsite at Hong Kong 7 months into the company
- seconded for a role in London and hong kong at HSBC
Extracurricular activity
- Part of an NGO in a mentor capacity,
- general secretary for the hall of residence
- presented paper in ASME conference
- Came 3rd in Schneider electric competition, Paris
Post-MBA goals
- Pivot to investment banking role
Target school
- LBS, Booth, Kellogg
Also considering
- ISB, INSEAD, Ross, UCLA Anderson, HAAS
Other relevant info - gap in the work experience of about 8 months.