Hi 18967mba, thanks for reaching out!
Your work background sounds very interesting and quite unique for b-schools -- that should be great!
Yes, your GMAT is not great for Columbia and your low quant will be especially concerning given that you have a less traditional background. Definitely give GMAT another shot, or maybe even two. I think the benefit of applying early decision is important for you. So if you have to, I would go ahead and apply, retake the GMAT shortly after, and use the optional essay to tell them you will be retaking the GMAT on x date. But, I do think you still have time to do a bit of both before the October deadline. So I might start working on your application and plan to take the test again in September. If it goes well, submit! If not, submit anyway and plan to take it one more time in late October after you submit.
As far as a specific score, 680+ is where I'd like to see you for Columbia, ideally 700+. And you definitely need a stronger quant score, ideally in the 45-47 range.
Good luck, and keep us posted if we can help with anything else!
Kate
18967mba
Hello
mbaMission (mbaMissionBrianE and/or mbaMissionKate)!
I just took the GMAT for the first time today, and honestly, disappointed with my score (630, Q40, V35)... I was hoping to apply early decision to Columbia GSB but not sure if that goal is still attainable
Background: I work as an apparel fashion designer for a very well known, luxury fashion brand here in NYC and have about 6 years of work experience. I graduated Magna Cum Laude from Fashion Institute of Technology (one of the premier fashion schools). 3 back to back promotions in the past 3 years. International education and some international internship experience as well.
HOWEVER... I don't have a 'math' background- the last 'real' math I did was in high school and maybe a class here in there while at FIT.
I definitely plan to take the GMAT again but application deadlines for CBS early decision are around the corner! Do you recommend I focus on my application first and submit that with the (dismal) score I have currently (maybe explain in my additional essay that I plan to retake the GMAT)... and once that is done, I get back to getting that GMAT score up...? Or the other way around... Both are a priority.. but I'm torn about what to tackle first!!
Also, what score do you think I will be 'safe' with? 700 I am assuming?
Thanks so much in advance!
Hoping for any guidance!