profile evaluation

Question

am currently an African American applicant for the class of 2007.

I am a first generation college grad and I have a challenged academic undergraduate record (2.74 cum). However, that is mostly due to the need to work throughout school to fund my education. I am a first generation college grade. I worked my way through several operational roles at a couple of major financial institutions, and currently in a management role at a Top Tier Asset management firm. In addition to my role from 8 to 6, I am very active on several committees, holding leadership roles with an emphasis on changing the culture. Outside of work, I have leadership experience (mostly mentoring).

I am a relatively strong standardized test taker. However, my GMAT score was in the high 500's on first try. Didnt get a chance to study much the first time, currently taking a Calculus class to get another data point to reference. 

My question is, if I can crack the 700 mark, what are my chances at getting into a top tier school (an HBS, Wharton, Columbia)? ...just curious on your opinion. Additionally, is there anything I can do to strengthen my case? 

Thanks in advance,
egertoda

egertoda · Answer

Hi,

I also neglected to mention that my future plans involve becoming an Equity Asset Manager/PM. I feel strongly about educating minorities about finance as an industry and how to manages their own personal finances.

PaulBodine · Answer

Egertoda,

If you can get a 700 or better, I think you could aim high. Schools will value your professional and extracurricular leadership and hardship story (i.e., need to work during school). In addition, you belong to an applicant pool that schools are highly inclined to favor. I would need to know your profile a little better to say whether HBS, Wharton, and CBS in particular could come through for you though.

I highly recommend that you do whatever it takes to lift your GMAT score (test prep, etc.). Even a score in the mid-600s will probably open many doors for you.

Good luck!

egertoda · Answer

Pbodine,

Thank you so much for your feedback. I hope you realize how much you are doing a service to people on this forum. 

I don't want to take up too much of your time but, could you comment on anything else I could do (in your opinion) that might help my cause? I am specifically interested in attending Wharton. Not just because of their finance reputation, but because of their strong student run community. It's almost like that place is "alive" and truly has a "spirit".

Again, your feedback is MUCH appreciated!

Thanks,

Egertoda

PaulBodine · Answer

Egertoda, 

Since you know what school you want most, I recommend that you begin building a network there. Not make a campus visit but meet and speak with as many Wharton students, alumni, and even faculty as you can and then keep these relationships open. I believe people get in when they make a concerted, sustained, and enthuasiastic effort to show a school that they *really* want to belong there. So start shmoozing!

Good luck,

PaulBodine · Answer

That should have been "Not  just  make a campus visit." You definitely do want to make at least one campus visit!

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