Linda, I need some advice

Question

Posted: Wed Aug 17, 2005 11:41 am Post subject: Should I retake the GMAT? 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
I wanted to apply to top 10 schools (Northwestern, Chicago, MIT, Michigan, UPenn, and possibly HBS). I got a 680 on the GMAT - 70% math and 91% verbal and a 5.5 on the AWA. I graduated from Carnegie Mellon with a 2.93 but I had a triple major - Engineering, Economics, and Engineering and Public Policy. I also ran a sucessful startup company for 2 years in school. I have been working in the Auto industry for 3+ years in a rotational program at a fortune 100 company. My work experience includes Product Design, Business Planning, and Manufacturing. I have also completed a Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from U of Michigan Dearborn with a GPA of 3.44 while working. 

I am wondering if I should retake the GMAT or concentrate on other areas that will develop my uniqueness? I am really lite on the community service items so I was thinking about working on that instead. Do you think my low math score will hurt me or do you think I have demonstrated that I have adequate math skills through my undergrad and grad degree? I think I got a low quant score because I hadn't prepared enough for the very hard problems and ran out of time. I could probably improve my score but I wasn't sure if it was worth it. Any tips would be nice. I also have done quite well at work and can get a few great recommendation letters. What are my chances at applying for next year? I am 26 years old. Thanks.

Accepted.com · Answer

For the schools that you are aiming for, I think you should retake the GMAT. Remember your undergard GPA is on the low side, although your grad GPA will compensate somewhat. To be competitive academically, you need to retake the GMAT. You may also want to consider retaking the GMAT and getting some community service and then applying in Fall 2006 for 2007 matriculation. 

Good luck!

cmuajp · Answer

Do I have a shot at Michigan? I am currently a resident and work in the area. I am not sure how much that matters though. I was also thinking about applying to their part time program.

puhrince · Answer

Linda - i have seen you mention taking community service a few times to applicants who haven't done any. I am sure a lot of people genuinely serve the community,but some also fake this part in their applications..but my question is - how do the universities check on that front? I mean its all based on honesty right?

Accepted.com · Answer

You certainly have a shot at the full-time program, but a better one at the part-time program.

Accepted.com · Answer

There are 2 ways the school can detect phony community service:

1) It doesn't sound the same in essays and interviews as the real thing.
2) Even if one can fake it in essays successfully, some schools check activities and resume info either for all acceped applicants or on a spot check basis.
3) Furthermore if someone is discovered to have lied after starting school, they can be expelled.

cmuajp · Answer

Do you think there is any type of special consideration for people who live and work in Michigan?

cont_halt · Answer

Linda,

I know business schools value community service. I have tried a hand at voluteerism in the last few months. I did not find it as exciting. Most experiences were insipid, organizations had few people who were motivated. 

I don't think that's my thing. Does this make me a bad person - No. I believe in fostering partnerships with target populations. In creating value addition for both the voluteer and target population will be more successful. I haven't experimented with the idea though.

I am concerned that my app. would not look competetive as it would show I have only done it for a short period of time and am not as excited about it either.

Accepted.com · Answer

You have to focus on what you have done. Have you particpated in sports? music? a political organization? church? College clubs? That's all community service.

Good luck!

Linda, I need some advice

Prep Toolkit

Top 5 GMAT Debrief Videos

615 to 715 in 15 Days (Ria's Strategies)

More than Quant/Verbal Abilities: Speed vs. Accuracy

745 with Only Self-Prep and GMAT Club

From 555 to 765: 210-point Improvement

Perfect 805 Score Debrief by Julia

My Rewards