JJ2014 wrote:
I intend to apply next year for the Fall 2014 MBA class. One question that I have is, how do I make myself stand out among a sea of applicants? I feel like I am the standard business school applicant: Ivy League undergrad (really bad GPA though), consultant at a decent firm, 25y/o. I know people say it's hard to apply when they're not part of the norm, but I almost feel like it's worse the other way around! I haven't taken the GMAT yet, and I do some volunteer work on the side. This whole process has definitely defeated my confidence in myself and my accomplishments quite a bit.
Please advise! Thanks!
You need an image! So think of who you are competing against and try and up the social value by whatever areas that you currently lack. For instance, since you have a low gpa (by the way, what is "low"?) then you would want to continue doing coursework and earn high grades. If you appear conceited, then volunteer, etc. There are definitely a "sea of candidates" but at the same time be reassured that your own qualities are what will determine your career success- not the reputation of your graduate degree. (As a side-note you will find people at GS, ML, JPM, etc., with undergrads from Middle-of-nowhere-U, they do this because they have the drive).
Stay positive!