Hi Jon,
I am looking to apply to grad schools this year and in the process of writing my app essays. I wanted to share with you my profile and get your opinion on big questions or concerns that adcoms will have when they see my profile (any suggestions on addressing those questions?). I am taking on the risky strategy of only applying to HBS and Stanford, so am trying to be extra meticulous.
Thanks a lot in advance!
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Target schoolsApplying to HBS and Stanford only in R1
Also applying HKS for a joint/dual degree
AcademicsGMAT: 770 (Q51, V45)
GPA: 3.9+ in engineering from HYP (received a number of academic awards throughout college)
1 publication (senior thesis)
Demographical info25 yo at matriculation (3 years out of undergrad), Asian male, foreign national (have lived in 4 countries to date)
Professional experienceRecently started working in an int'l dev NGO in Africa as an externship of my consulting firm
Worked 2 years at MBB US office (including an international engagement)
Fellowship at a US youth development nonprofit
College internship at BB IBD in NYC
Child acting on TV growing up in Asia
Extracurricular activitiesPost collegeFounder & leadership committee member of a youth development nonprofit (the same one I did a fellowship at)
Founder of a grant (at my old HS) aimed at helping students pursue their passion
Volunteer at a secondary school in the developing country I am currently working at (teach math classes for local students, revamp lesson plans, train teachers on various teaching methods)
Regional rep for undergrad alumni
During collegeMembership & leadership positions at a number of different clubs (e.g., ethnic group, dance, student government)
Post-MBA goalStarting a foundation for global youth development (after going back to my consulting firm for a couple years to gain more international/leadership experiences); I am focusing my essays on tying my long-term vision to my life experiences to date