Last visit was: 19 Nov 2025, 14:22 It is currently 19 Nov 2025, 14:22
Home
GMAT
Messages
Tests
Schools
Events
Rewards
Chat
My Profile
Close
GMAT Club Daily Prep
Thank you for using the timer - this advanced tool can estimate your performance and suggest more practice questions. We have subscribed you to Daily Prep Questions via email.

Customized
for You

we will pick new questions that match your level based on your Timer History

Track
Your Progress

every week, we’ll send you an estimated GMAT score based on your performance

Practice
Pays

we will pick new questions that match your level based on your Timer History
Not interested in getting valuable practice questions and articles delivered to your email? No problem, unsubscribe here.
Go to My Error Log Learn more
Close
Request Expert Reply
Confirm Cancel
User avatar
MBAApplicant2026
User avatar
Joined: 24 Apr 2023
Last visit: 17 Nov 2025
Posts: 14
Own Kudos:
11
Given Kudos: 11
Location: United States
GMAT Focus 1: 695 Q88 V84 DI81
GMAT Focus 1: 695 Q88 V84 DI81
Posts: 14
Kudos: 11
Profile Review 01 Apr 2025, 19:24
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Hi all!

Would anyone be willing to give me some honest feedback on my profile?

Looking to apply to schools in R1 of this year. I'm based in the Midwest, and want to stay there after graduating, so I've narrowed my schools down to those in the Midwest.

26 M, ORM

GPA: 2.64 from a ~ T50 US State School (yes I know this is terrible, majored in MechE)

GMAT: 695 (Q88, V84, DI81). I know this would be a good score if I had an average GPA, but since mine is so low, I'm retaking and shooting for a 735+.

Work Exp: 3.5 years as a process engineer at a large manufacturing company in the Midwest (don't want to go into the details too much). 2 promotions, and increasing responsibility over the past couple years. Will have 4 years of exp by the time I apply and 5 by matriculation.

Why MBA: Still working on the details of this, but my short term goal is to pivot into MBB, or T2 if that doesn't work out. I believe with my background and experience, consulting would be a very natural transition with all the cross functional work I've been involved in with my job.

Schools: Kellogg, Booth (these are both long shots and I'm honestly not expecting to get in even with an improved GMAT), Ross, and Mendoza.
User avatar
ExpertsGlobal
User avatar
Experts' Global Representative
Joined: 18 Apr 2017
Last visit: 19 Nov 2025
Posts: 2,469
Own Kudos:
408
 [1]
Given Kudos: 6
Expert
Expert reply
Posts: 2,469
Kudos: 408
 [1]
Profile Review 01 Apr 2025, 21:53
1
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Hello MBAApplicant2026,

Thanks for writing in.

Considering you low GPA, it is imperative that you aim for the score you are aiming at; it will go a long way in improving your chances at your target schools.

Booth and Kellogg are a long shot for most. The chances will depend on the strength of your overall application, especially the essays.

Mendoza will be a Practical option; we do feel, however, that you should look at adding a few more schools ranked between US top ~15 and US top ~20.

Good luck!
MBAApplicant2026
Hi all!

Would anyone be willing to give me some honest feedback on my profile?

Looking to apply to schools in R1 of this year. I'm based in the Midwest, and want to stay there after graduating, so I've narrowed my schools down to those in the Midwest.

26 M, ORM

GPA: 2.64 from a ~ T50 US State School (yes I know this is terrible, majored in MechE)

GMAT: 695 (Q88, V84, DI81). I know this would be a good score if I had an average GPA, but since mine is so low, I'm retaking and shooting for a 735+.

Work Exp: 3.5 years as a process engineer at a large manufacturing company in the Midwest (don't want to go into the details too much). 2 promotions, and increasing responsibility over the past couple years. Will have 4 years of exp by the time I apply and 5 by matriculation.

Why MBA: Still working on the details of this, but my short term goal is to pivot into MBB, or T2 if that doesn't work out. I believe with my background and experience, consulting would be a very natural transition with all the cross functional work I've been involved in with my job.

Schools: Kellogg, Booth (these are both long shots and I'm honestly not expecting to get in even with an improved GMAT), Ross, and Mendoza.
Show more
User avatar
MBAApplicant2026
User avatar
Joined: 24 Apr 2023
Last visit: 17 Nov 2025
Posts: 14
Own Kudos:
11
Given Kudos: 11
Location: United States
GMAT Focus 1: 695 Q88 V84 DI81
GMAT Focus 1: 695 Q88 V84 DI81
Posts: 14
Kudos: 11
Profile Review 01 Apr 2025, 22:05
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Thank you! So even though I plan on staying in the Midwest, do you still think there’s value in applying to some schools in the 15-20 range that are slightly more regional, like Tepper, Mccombs, etc in hopes of maybe landing a scholarship? I forgot to add Kelly to my target list also.

ExpertsGlobal
Hello MBAApplicant2026,

Thanks for writing in.

Considering you low GPA, it is imperative that you aim for the score you are aiming at; it will go a long way in improving your chances at your target schools.

Booth and Kellogg are a long shot for most. The chances will depend on the strength of your overall application, especially the essays.

Mendoza will be a Practical option; we do feel, however, that you should look at adding a few more schools ranked between US top ~15 and US top ~20.

Good luck!
MBAApplicant2026
Hi all!

Would anyone be willing to give me some honest feedback on my profile?

Looking to apply to schools in R1 of this year. I'm based in the Midwest, and want to stay there after graduating, so I've narrowed my schools down to those in the Midwest.

26 M, ORM

GPA: 2.64 from a ~ T50 US State School (yes I know this is terrible, majored in MechE)

GMAT: 695 (Q88, V84, DI81). I know this would be a good score if I had an average GPA, but since mine is so low, I'm retaking and shooting for a 735+.

Work Exp: 3.5 years as a process engineer at a large manufacturing company in the Midwest (don't want to go into the details too much). 2 promotions, and increasing responsibility over the past couple years. Will have 4 years of exp by the time I apply and 5 by matriculation.

Why MBA: Still working on the details of this, but my short term goal is to pivot into MBB, or T2 if that doesn't work out. I believe with my background and experience, consulting would be a very natural transition with all the cross functional work I've been involved in with my job.

Schools: Kellogg, Booth (these are both long shots and I'm honestly not expecting to get in even with an improved GMAT), Ross, and Mendoza.
Show more
User avatar
MBAandBeyond
User avatar
MBA and Beyond Consulting
Joined: 13 Jul 2020
Last visit: 19 Nov 2025
Posts: 4,427
Own Kudos:
927
Given Kudos: 166
Status:MBA Admissions Consulting from INSEAD, Wharton and Columbia graduates
Affiliations: INSEAD and Harvard
Location: Singapore
Expert
Expert reply
Posts: 4,427
Kudos: 927
Profile Review 04 Apr 2025, 05:59
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
MBAApplicant2026
Hi all!

Would anyone be willing to give me some honest feedback on my profile?

Looking to apply to schools in R1 of this year. I'm based in the Midwest, and want to stay there after graduating, so I've narrowed my schools down to those in the Midwest.

26 M, ORM

GPA: 2.64 from a ~ T50 US State School (yes I know this is terrible, majored in MechE)

GMAT: 695 (Q88, V84, DI81). I know this would be a good score if I had an average GPA, but since mine is so low, I'm retaking and shooting for a 735+.

Work Exp: 3.5 years as a process engineer at a large manufacturing company in the Midwest (don't want to go into the details too much). 2 promotions, and increasing responsibility over the past couple years. Will have 4 years of exp by the time I apply and 5 by matriculation.

Why MBA: Still working on the details of this, but my short term goal is to pivot into MBB, or T2 if that doesn't work out. I believe with my background and experience, consulting would be a very natural transition with all the cross functional work I've been involved in with my job.

Schools: Kellogg, Booth (these are both long shots and I'm honestly not expecting to get in even with an improved GMAT), Ross, and Mendoza.
Show more
Thank you for sharing your profile MBAApplicant2026 ! Your profile has good elements, including decent work experience with career progression, quant skills, and a logical transition into consulting. However, your biggest challenge is your low GPA (2.64), which will require strategic mitigation. Talking about your GMAT FE score, 695 is good, and it’s really nice that you understand the situation and are planning to retake the GMAT. Shooting for a 735+ score, is a smart move, as a higher score can help offset low gpa.

Additionally, taking MBA Math or HBS CORe could further demonstrate your quantitative and business acumen. Your school selection is well-balanced, but Kellogg and Booth remain stretch options, while Ross and Mendoza can be more attainable with a strong application. To improve your chances, focus on refining your Why MBA? story, highlighting leadership impact at work, you can check this blog on “How to Exhibit Different Forms of Leadership in Your MBA Application” this might help you in your applications. Networking with alumni, particularly engineers who transitioned into consulting, will also be beneficial. With the right approach, a well-executed application, and an improved GMAT, you can position yourself competitively for your target schools.

Overall, you have a good profile and a chance at top business schools. If you’d like, we’d be happy to dive deep into your profile and understand your chances. Let’s chat and work on strengthening your application strategy

Cheers!
Shantanu Sharma
Founder and Admissions Consultant, MBA and Beyond
User avatar
TheRedPen
User avatar
The Red Pen Representative
Joined: 18 Jan 2021
Last visit: 17 Nov 2025
Posts: 638
Own Kudos:
85
Given Kudos: 7
Location: India
GMAT 1: 760 Q51 V42
Expert
Expert reply
GMAT 1: 760 Q51 V42
Posts: 638
Kudos: 85
Profile Review 07 Apr 2025, 10:16
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
MBAApplicant2026
Hi all!

Would anyone be willing to give me some honest feedback on my profile?

Looking to apply to schools in R1 of this year. I'm based in the Midwest, and want to stay there after graduating, so I've narrowed my schools down to those in the Midwest.

26 M, ORM

GPA: 2.64 from a ~ T50 US State School (yes I know this is terrible, majored in MechE)

GMAT: 695 (Q88, V84, DI81). I know this would be a good score if I had an average GPA, but since mine is so low, I'm retaking and shooting for a 735+.

Work Exp: 3.5 years as a process engineer at a large manufacturing company in the Midwest (don't want to go into the details too much). 2 promotions, and increasing responsibility over the past couple years. Will have 4 years of exp by the time I apply and 5 by matriculation.

Why MBA: Still working on the details of this, but my short term goal is to pivot into MBB, or T2 if that doesn't work out. I believe with my background and experience, consulting would be a very natural transition with all the cross functional work I've been involved in with my job.

Schools: Kellogg, Booth (these are both long shots and I'm honestly not expecting to get in even with an improved GMAT), Ross, and Mendoza.
Show more
Hi MBAApplicant2026,

Your profile shows strong potential. With nearly four years of experience at a major manufacturing firm and two promotions, you’ve demonstrated solid career progression and leadership growth. While your GPA of 2.64 is certainly on the lower end, it’s great that you’re planning to retake the GMAT—aiming for a 735+ can help offset the GPA and strengthen your academic profile. Be sure to address the GPA proactively, either through an optional essay or by showcasing academic readiness via a higher GMAT score, recent quant-heavy coursework, or relevant certifications.

The pivot from engineering to consulting is a well-established path. Focus on crafting a compelling narrative that highlights your transferable skills, such as leadership, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration.

Consider applying to a balanced mix of reach, target, and safety schools. We can help you shortlist the right-fit programs based on a detailed discussion about your goals and profile. Feel free to schedule a complimentary call with our MBA consultants for a more detailed discussion. You can also connect with them via call or WhatsApp at +91 7780769732.
User avatar
NextstopISB
User avatar
Joined: 11 Jan 2025
Last visit: 19 Nov 2025
Posts: 303
Own Kudos:
151
Given Kudos: 351
Products:
GMAT Club Tests
Posts: 303
Kudos: 151
Profile Review 07 Apr 2025, 10:37
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Thanks for sharing your profile—it’s clear you’ve made strong progress in your career with steady promotions and solid experience in manufacturing. While the GPA is on the lower side, your upward trajectory, solid GMAT (and potential for higher), and clear goals toward consulting (especially with cross-functional work experience) help balance that out. An improved GMAT will definitely help mitigate academic concerns. I think targeting Midwest schools makes perfect sense given your goals, and Ross and Mendoza could be great fits. Don’t count yourself out for Kellogg and Booth—you might be surprised how much holistic admissions weigh strong professional growth and clarity of purpose. Good luck!
User avatar
admissionCoach
User avatar
Admission Concierge Consultant
Joined: 15 Jan 2020
Last visit: 11 Aug 2025
Posts: 79
Own Kudos:
22
Products:
My Reviews
Posts: 79
Kudos: 22
Profile Review 07 Apr 2025, 12:18
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Hi OP! Your GPA is a challenge, but your GMAT is solid and your commitment to retaking for 735+ shows self-awareness. Your work experience with promotions and increasing responsibility tells a good story that aligns with your post-MBA consulting goals.
For schools: Kellogg/Booth are reaches given the GPA, Ross is more realistic with your Midwest focus, and Mendoza makes sense as a safety. Consider adding Kelley as another target.
For your application: Nail that GMAT retake, craft a compelling "Why MBA/consulting" story, address the GPA in optional essays, and get recommendations highlighting your analytical abilities and leadership potential.
The GPA is a hurdle but not a deal-breaker with strong execution elsewhere. Good luck!

MBAApplicant2026
Hi all!

Would anyone be willing to give me some honest feedback on my profile?

Looking to apply to schools in R1 of this year. I'm based in the Midwest, and want to stay there after graduating, so I've narrowed my schools down to those in the Midwest.

26 M, ORM

GPA: 2.64 from a ~ T50 US State School (yes I know this is terrible, majored in MechE)

GMAT: 695 (Q88, V84, DI81). I know this would be a good score if I had an average GPA, but since mine is so low, I'm retaking and shooting for a 735+.

Work Exp: 3.5 years as a process engineer at a large manufacturing company in the Midwest (don't want to go into the details too much). 2 promotions, and increasing responsibility over the past couple years. Will have 4 years of exp by the time I apply and 5 by matriculation.

Why MBA: Still working on the details of this, but my short term goal is to pivot into MBB, or T2 if that doesn't work out. I believe with my background and experience, consulting would be a very natural transition with all the cross functional work I've been involved in with my job.

Schools: Kellogg, Booth (these are both long shots and I'm honestly not expecting to get in even with an improved GMAT), Ross, and Mendoza.
Show more