Advice on the app: old GMAT scores + work experience

Question

I just received my undergraduate degree a couple of weeks ago, and am trying to figure out my future plans. I am pretty sure I want to go to business school at some point, but am wondering about two things:

1. If I take the GMAT now and then apply for business school in 4 years, will admissions committees look disapprovingly on the "old" scores?

2. What exactly do admissions committees look for when they are assessing your work experience? Management experience? Progression with a company? Field?

If anyone could give me some advice on those two questions I would really appreciate the help.

terp26 · Answer

I am sure as long as the GMAT score is valid (5 years) it won't make a difference.

Work experience is impact. What impact have you had? Managerial experience is probably a huge plus, especially showing impact but I don't think would be negative with a few years of experience. Diverse work experience is probably a positive as well, especially if you come from a trad over subscribed applicant pool.

kidderek · Answer

If you're going to apply later, look at some of the application essay questions. Look to position yourself at your job to be able to effectively answer those questions.

There will be a lot of leadership stuff, as well as handling a difficult situation and thinking out of the box stuff. Rack up a few licenses, if applicable to your field. Your way ahead of the curve and if you do everything correctly, heck, you may not even need an MBA later.

kelli · Answer

ok, that's a good tip. I'll check some apps out.

so it sounds like being in a position to lead or supervise others matters more than the specific field of work you're in?

(I know I am clueless, but bear with me)

togafoot · Answer

Not necessary people, but also projects, processes, accounts etc. Anything which holds responsibility

cpgmba · Answer

Remember, you can lead cross-functional teams without actually supervising/managing people. Leadership can be demonstrated in many ways.

kryzak · Answer

yup, I never had a true "leadership" position at work, but demonstrated from the groups I worked with that I had leadership (and teamwork) skills to succeed. Leadership has many guises, so really think through your experiences (or your future ones) when you write your essays.

Advice on the app: old GMAT scores + work experience

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