Can international or "interesting" make up for lower gpa?

Question

So I just recently graduated from a top 50 business school, 3.13 cumulative, 3.69 in major, and 3.57 average final 4 semesters. Based off of practice tests I'm aiming for around a 730-750 gmat (I know that's a pretty lofty goal but for the sake of the argument lets assume it's possible).

As I'm a dual citizen (U.S & Australia)I moved immediately after college to work on a ranch in the outback for a few months because I figured best time in life to do something like that, and am now about to start working with marketing department of one of the bigger video game companies in the world in Sydney. So I'm wondering if growing up in US and going to school in California and now working in Sydney Australia after a few months on a ranch in the outback is firstly good or bad interesting, and if it in combination with potential gmat score would be enough to make up for lower end GPA (bottom of 80% range for Kellogg). and have a shot at a school like Kellogg (as stretch school)?

Obviously it's very few details to go off of and I will have extra stuff like volunteering, but does success with a multinational video game company internationally count even close to as much as a big name consultancy in the states when applying to some of these schools? I figure my best shot for Kellogg would be as someone successful in a niche and with a slight international/unique twist to experience.

I'm not necessarily looking for an answer for my specific situation that was merely used as an example to help illustrate what I'm trying to ask. Any input would be greatly appreciated, thanks!

VeritasPrepDozie · Answer

Thanks for sharing your profile. Very interesting theoretic profile, but assuming the given information I think you have a shot. Kellogg more than any other of the top programs really cares about the individual and in particular the interpersonal skills of said individual. With that being said I would not enter the process trying to game the admissions and assuming having a few buzz words in your background will yield success. Now to answer your specific question about your slightly non-traditional background vs. the very traditional management consulting background I would say it really depends on your impact in your organization. If you made more of an impact at relatively well known company than a low impact candidate at a mgmt consulting firm thats when you become really competitive.

I do think your hunch is correct knock out the essays (video essays and interviews as well) with a compelling, interesting execution showcasing the diversity of your experience while highlighting your interpersonal skills and you will be in range at Kellogg

Hope this helps!

I do think your hunch is correct knock out the essays (video essays and interviews as well) with a compelling, interesting execution showcasing the diversity of your experience while highlighting your interpersonal skills and you will be in range at Kellogg

Hope this helps!

Can international or "interesting" make up for lower gpa?

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