Portfolio building for MBA in short duration

Question

My profile 
- Studied in a US university with a GPA of 3.65/4
- Job: Worked in the States for a year, then transition back to deal advisory in one of the Big 4 in Taiwan. Current work experience is (1 year in US + 2 years in Taiwan)
- GMAT: Will try to complete within the next few months

My aim 
- US M7 
- Want to pivot to IBD in the States post MBA
- Preferably to apply this year, or worst case next year. 
 
 Current dilemma 
- Got opportunity to transfer group to work in SG or HK in the same Big 4 as my current job 
- Both jobs are not ideal in terms of the job scope, but both jobs are still somewhat related to my current job function (deal related). But nonetheless, both present an opportunity to work in a different country and a larger market. This seems like an experience that will help me differentiate myself from other candidates, but I'm not sure if this is true and how long do I need to stay in those jobs to make it seems like I have the ability to work in a larger market and thus capitalize on the benefit of a multi-nation experience. 
- Current role presents me the opportunity to work on engagements that aligns more to the job skills I will need for IBD roles in the future. But it seems like with the current experience, it'll be difficult to break into IBD without obtaining an MBA degree.

Decision to make 
I've been stuck in this crossroad trying to decide if moving to SG or HK is the right decision for me. Would really appreciate any input.

MBAGuide · Answer

emili0000 What would people not give to be in a similar situation and have multiple global mobility options?

From the adcom's point of view, the fact that you are able to secure global work opportunities is a strong reflection of the uniqueness of your skill set and capabilities. Beyond that, they don’t worry much about whether it makes sense that you only recently accepted an expatriation opportunity and will soon leave it to join your MBA. In any case, there will be a good 6–12 month period during which you will be in the new job, and they take into account that this time would give you decent exposure to contribute further learnings and insights to the class. I have seen my mentees leave jobs at the time of applications and take on internships (sometimes even remote) or accept new offers from abroad to demonstrate what they are trying to improve in their profiles, and the adcoms view this very positively. (Unless the logistics of it are particularly difficult) It will definitely be another feather in your cap if you are aiming for the best MBA programs out there. Best wishes Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD MBA alumna, former INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer) Founder, MBAGuideConsulting LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/aanchal-sahni-83b00819/ |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message(WA): +91 9971200927| email- mbaguideconsulting@gmail.com

MBADecoder · Answer

I am actually quite excited about the move- gaining experience of a new market always adds to one's experience and resume. Moreover, it signals stepping outside your comfort zone, adjusting, adapting, picking new life skills. I am cognizant that you've done all of this earlier, but, here's another chance for you to work in a new country. And, like you said, it can be a differentiator in your profile.
The only challenge I foresee is that you will likely move when you are in the midst of your GMAT prep. You can plan the logistics well to apply in R1 or R2, or apply next year - both approaches will be alright.

Regarding your job role- you don't have to be doing investment banking currently in order to move into a bank. The MBA facilitates pivots, and if your changed job role is somewhat related, you will be in a great position to seek an IB role. Moreover, you have already worked in XX function of deal advisory for 3 years- which is substantial work experience. By not taking up the new role, will you continue doing the same work as you have done for past 3 years? It may just be better to challenge yourself through new responsibilities. For me to say any further, I will need to understand the specifics of your job roles/ functions, but on a high level, this approach looks valid.
 
 Feel free to reach out.

Namita Garg,
 Founder, MBA Decoder   
 Email:    contact@mbadecoder.com  
 Reach out to us for a Profile Evaluation 
 Helping applicants achieve their MBA dreams since 2011

pintukr · Answer

A high GMAT score will significantly boost the chances for securing an admit.

All the Best..

NextstopISB · Answer

Navigating your career trajectory towards Investment Banking Division (IBD) roles in the U.S. involves strategic decisions, especially considering your current experience and opportunities. Here's an analysis to assist you:

Current Profile Assessment:

Education: A U.S. university degree with a 3.65/4 GPA.

Professional Experience: 1 year in the U.S. and 2 years in Taiwan within Big 4 deal advisory.

GMAT: Pending.

Objective: Secure admission to a U.S. M7 MBA program and transition into IBD roles in the States post-MBA.

Opportunity at Hand: Potential transfer to Singapore (SG) or Hong Kong (HK) within the same Big 4 firm.

Considerations:

1. International Experience:

Pros: Working in SG or HK can enhance your profile with international exposure, showcasing adaptability and a global perspective—qualities valued by top MBA programs.

Cons: Frequent job changes or short stints may raise concerns about commitment and stability.

2. Relevance to IBD:

Current Role in Taiwan: Aligns closely with skills pertinent to IBD, potentially offering a smoother transition post-MBA.

Roles in SG/HK: While providing international exposure, ensure the job scope aligns with IBD skill requirements.

3. MBA Application Timing:

Applying This Year: Maintaining your current role could demonstrate consistency and depth in your field.

Applying Next Year: A year in SG or HK could enrich your profile but may require a compelling narrative to explain the short tenure.

Recommendations:

Evaluate the New Roles: Assess whether the positions in SG or HK will equip you with skills and experiences directly transferable to IBD.

Consider Duration: A longer tenure (e.g., 1-2 years) in SG or HK might be more beneficial, presenting a substantial international experience.

MBA Application Strategy:

If aiming to apply this year, your current role's relevance to IBD could strengthen your application.

If deferring to next year, ensure the international role significantly enhances your profile and aligns with your career goals.

Conclusion:

Transitioning to SG or HK offers valuable international exposure, potentially differentiating you in the MBA admissions process. However, it's crucial to ensure that such a move aligns with your long-term goal of entering IBD in the U.S. Weigh the benefits of international experience against the relevance of your current role to IBD and the optimal timing for your MBA application.

For further insights on transitioning from Big 4 advisory roles to investment banking, consider exploring the following resource:

bhargavhhhhhhhh · Answer

Focus on GMAT Score

Gmat750aspirant · Answer

Apply this year with Good GMAT score

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