Last visit was: 01 May 2026, 05:09 It is currently 01 May 2026, 05:09
Close
GMAT Club Daily Prep
Thank you for using the timer - this advanced tool can estimate your performance and suggest more practice questions. We have subscribed you to Daily Prep Questions via email.

Customized
for You

we will pick new questions that match your level based on your Timer History

Track
Your Progress

every week, we’ll send you an estimated GMAT score based on your performance

Practice
Pays

we will pick new questions that match your level based on your Timer History
Not interested in getting valuable practice questions and articles delivered to your email? No problem, unsubscribe here.
Close
Request Expert Reply
Confirm Cancel
User avatar
bb
User avatar
Founder
Joined: 04 Dec 2002
Last visit: 30 Apr 2026
Posts: 43,176
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 24,687
Location: United States
GMAT 1: 750 Q49 V42
GPA: 3
Products:
Expert
Expert reply
GMAT 1: 750 Q49 V42
Posts: 43,176
Kudos: 83,762
 [400]
139
Kudos
Add Kudos
255
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
User avatar
gulluhullu
Joined: 09 Apr 2023
Last visit: 15 Jun 2024
Posts: 53
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 45
Location: India
Schools: Goizueta '26
GPA: 7.6
Schools: Goizueta '26
Posts: 53
Kudos: 5
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
User avatar
MBAandBeyond
User avatar
MBA and Beyond Consulting
Joined: 13 Jul 2020
Last visit: 30 Apr 2026
Posts: 4,468
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 173
Status:MBA Admissions Consulting from INSEAD, Wharton and Columbia graduates
Affiliations: INSEAD and Harvard
Location: Singapore
Expert
Expert reply
Posts: 4,468
Kudos: 954
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
User avatar
DaringJat
Joined: 13 May 2021
Last visit: 28 May 2024
Posts: 5
Given Kudos: 1
Posts: 5
Kudos: 0
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Hello Everyone,

I am an Indian male, 25, planning on pursuing some business related post graduate course from US. I'd be indebted if I can get profile evaluations.
I did 3 year B.Sc. from a local college and got 95% (9/10 GPA ?) and then one year diploma in Personnel management which also I passed with 93%.
Then I have three year experience (one year after degree completion)(will have had 2 yr official exp. at the time of admission) with my startup that is doing really well and is a stand out stuff (Turnover is around half a million dollars/yearly). I have loads to talk about it and have also earned distinctions and awards. It is basically about A2 milk and is one of the few efforts at mainstreaming an otherwise niche commodity. So I have elite level breeding efforts to talk about which itself required me to manage a team of 20 and also make crucial decisions all by myself. Then on the marketing end, I was able to use vending machines to appeal to a larger segment which has kind of worked, though I am still far from the mainstreaming reality.
However, one thing that is odd (but genuinely explainable) is that I got admitted to one of the top engineering schools in the US 7 years ago and even completed the degree halfway before dropping out due to health reasons. Then I got admitted to one of the top 20 B Schools in India last year but did not pursue MBA there.
Kind of a puzzling profile I got here.
I am yet to appear for the GMAT but am getting in official mocks, somewhere around 750 so 730+ is what I'd assume.
I am more on the MBA side but am first off, not sure about the utility of other programs, and secondly about my prospects of getting admitted in MBA in top 20-30.
(In case hobbies matter, I write really good poetry, am a pro chess player with few awards, and am a good writer and orator)

Thanks
User avatar
MBAGuide
Joined: 24 Jul 2019
Last visit: 30 Apr 2026
Posts: 2,373
Own Kudos:
990
 [1]
Given Kudos: 28
Location: India
Concentration: Operations, Marketing
Posts: 2,373
Kudos: 990
 [1]
1
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
DaringJat
Hello Everyone,

I am an Indian male, 25, planning on pursuing some business related post graduate course from US. I'd be indebted if I can get profile evaluations.
I did 3 year B.Sc. from a local college and got 95% (9/10 GPA ?) and then one year diploma in Personnel management which also I passed with 93%.
Then I have three year experience (one year after degree completion)(will have had 2 yr official exp. at the time of admission) with my startup that is doing really well and is a stand out stuff (Turnover is around half a million dollars/yearly). I have loads to talk about it and have also earned distinctions and awards. It is basically about A2 milk and is one of the few efforts at mainstreaming an otherwise niche commodity. So I have elite level breeding efforts to talk about which itself required me to manage a team of 20 and also make crucial decisions all by myself. Then on the marketing end, I was able to use vending machines to appeal to a larger segment which has kind of worked, though I am still far from the mainstreaming reality.
However, one thing that is odd (but genuinely explainable) is that I got admitted to one of the top engineering schools in the US 7 years ago and even completed the degree halfway before dropping out due to health reasons. Then I got admitted to one of the top 20 B Schools in India last year but did not pursue MBA there.
Kind of a puzzling profile I got here.
I am yet to appear for the GMAT but am getting in official mocks, somewhere around 750 so 730+ is what I'd assume.
I am more on the MBA side but am first off, not sure about the utility of other programs, and secondly about my prospects of getting admitted in MBA in top 20-30.
(In case hobbies matter, I write really good poetry, am a pro chess player with few awards, and am a good writer and orator)

Thanks


DaringJat

Very impressive!

The critical question you need to ask yourself is: What do you want to achieve with an MBA at this point in time? Your business has achieved remarkable success that validates your business management skills at such a young age. At the same time, there is significant potential to take your business to a higher level and potentially become a thought leader on a larger scale.

If you believe you are cut for entrepreneurship and are looking for unparalleled guidance and networking resources to quickly increase scalability, you should focus on schools that offer just that. I recommend the top 10 schools in the US, in addition to LBS and INSEAD. These options provide the ideal environment for your endeavors.

That being said, you are still at the lower end of the age spectrum for the top business schools in the world, so waiting another year would be a safe bet. However, I am sure schools can give you a deferral if they feel you need more experience, but they would not pass up a high potential applicant. Generally speaking, business schools view entrepreneurs and consultants as individuals with unique opportunities to quickly develop a higher level of maturity and perspective than most employees in the corporate sector. Entrepreneurs face the dynamic challenges of running their own businesses, which requires quick decision-making, adaptability, and a comprehensive understanding of business nuances. Consultants, on the other hand, work with a variety of industries and organizations and quickly gain insight into different challenges and solutions. Both paths require rapid skill development, strategic thinking, and a holistic view. This intensity of experience often accelerates the maturation and perspective-gaining process, distinguishing entrepreneurs and consultants as candidates with enriching perspectives on the business landscape.

Feel free to speak should you want professional advice on cracking applications and interviews.

Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex-INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message: +91 9971200927| email- [email protected]
User avatar
ladyjames6600
Joined: 25 Aug 2023
Last visit: 25 Aug 2023
Posts: 1
Location: Canada
GMAT 1: 780 Q57 V59
GRE 1: Q167 V166
GMAT 1: 780 Q57 V59
GRE 1: Q167 V166
Posts: 1
Kudos: 0
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
I love your description!
User avatar
DaringJat
Joined: 13 May 2021
Last visit: 28 May 2024
Posts: 5
Given Kudos: 1
Posts: 5
Kudos: 0
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Thank you Aanchal
At this point actually, I have to take crucial decisions and infuse big investments to decide the course for long term. It feels like guidance and experience of an MBA might prove to be very helpful since I will be getting hands on experience with complexities of the business world. I expect to have peers who see the opportunities offered by today's world differently from the rest 99.9% and to see them overcome challenges and co-operate with them is nothing short of an enlightenment in the modern era. I just want to walk out of an MBA with an evolved vision of my own model in my mind, and with an idea, as crazy as it was when I enrolled but equipped with an objective plan to achieve it.
As such, which colleges might be aligned with my goals? Which colleges focus lesser on employability of their students but on nurturing their potential?
User avatar
DaringJat
Joined: 13 May 2021
Last visit: 28 May 2024
Posts: 5
Given Kudos: 1
Posts: 5
Kudos: 0
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
ladyjames6600
I love your description!

If you're talking about my post, Thank you :blushing:
User avatar
darthdhruvit
Joined: 29 May 2022
Last visit: 26 Jun 2025
Posts: 3
Given Kudos: 2
Posts: 3
Kudos: 0
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Hi,
I'm a 22 year old Male.I graduated in 2022 from a University ranked 46th in India where I studied B.Tech in Electrical Engineering. I've been working with TCS as a Data Analyst for a year. Currently I am working on Woolworths Project, where we basically manage its Data and provide backend support.

Cgpa 7.8
Gmat 710
Toefl 111

1 Month Internship at a company Manufacturing Solar Cells

Undertook a project where I constructed a 2 motors: A Radial Flux Motor and An Axial Flux Motor

6 Months industry internship with TCS on Data Analysis and Integration which was converted to a full time job

Extra curriculars:-
I was the Cricket as well as football Captain of my college team.

Multiple Gold Medals in Various Olympiads.

Was the Board Member of a club in college and organized various events both Technical such as lectures and seminars from industry leaders and Non-Technical such as stand up comedy and music nights.

Was involved with an Ngo for 3 months as a part of which we taught under-privileged kids various subjects.

Was involved in another Ngo for nearly a decade where young kids are encouraged to take up science by teaching them various experiments. I initially joined as a student myself but later on when I got into college I served as an instructor for about 3 years.

I recently started a small women's clothing brand with a friend of mine which I manage along with my full time job.

I recently met with a consultancy and they said that I might not be able to get into a good MBA program due to my limited work experience. Can anyone help me with the same?? And if so what are the alternatives to MBA that I can target??
User avatar
MBAGuide
Joined: 24 Jul 2019
Last visit: 30 Apr 2026
Posts: 2,373
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 28
Location: India
Concentration: Operations, Marketing
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
DaringJat
Thank you Aanchal
At this point actually, I have to take crucial decisions and infuse big investments to decide the course for long term. It feels like guidance and experience of an MBA might prove to be very helpful since I will be getting hands on experience with complexities of the business world. I expect to have peers who see the opportunities offered by today's world differently from the rest 99.9% and to see them overcome challenges and co-operate with them is nothing short of an enlightenment in the modern era. I just want to walk out of an MBA with an evolved vision of my own model in my mind, and with an idea, as crazy as it was when I enrolled but equipped with an objective plan to achieve it.
As such, which colleges might be aligned with my goals? Which colleges focus lesser on employability of their students but on nurturing their potential?


DaringJat

If your primary goal is to quickly return to your business after graduation, U.S. schools may not be the most logical choice, both in terms of time commitment and return on investment. Instead, if you focus on options in India, the EU, or the UK, you'll likely get better results. Institutions such as INSEAD, LBS, IESE, ESADE, and HEC Paris (although age and experience still matter) are worth investigating. All schools have a good entrepreneurship focus, especially INSEAD (I can tell you that). In the Indian context, among the one-year PGP programs, ISB would be the most suitable as you aren't eligible for IIM A PGPX.

I recommend that you research each of these schools in depth to form your own opinion. It is worthwhile to get in touch with the school and exchange ideas with alumni. In this way, you can make a compelling case for how the school aligns with your goals and ultimately increase your success in the admissions process.

Best wishes

Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex-INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message: +91 9971200927| email- [email protected]
User avatar
bb
User avatar
Founder
Joined: 04 Dec 2002
Last visit: 30 Apr 2026
Posts: 43,176
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 24,687
Location: United States
GMAT 1: 750 Q49 V42
GPA: 3
Products:
Expert
Expert reply
GMAT 1: 750 Q49 V42
Posts: 43,176
Kudos: 83,762
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
You need at least 2 years of work experience to get the most out of MBA and many programs do not take or even evaluate people without work experience. Some do but take in very few.

You can get a masters degree but you would not benefit from an MBA at this stage of your career … you have to make some mistakes and gain some basic experience before developing your leadership skills further.


darthdhruvit
Hi,
I'm a 22 year old Male.I graduated in 2022 from a University ranked 46th in India where I studied B.Tech in Electrical Engineering. I've been working with TCS as a Data Analyst for a year. Currently I am working on Woolworths Project, where we basically manage its Data and provide backend support.

Cgpa 7.8
Gmat 710
Toefl 111

1 Month Internship at a company Manufacturing Solar Cells

Undertook a project where I constructed a 2 motors: A Radial Flux Motor and An Axial Flux Motor

6 Months industry internship with TCS on Data Analysis and Integration which was converted to a full time job

Extra curriculars:-
I was the Cricket as well as football Captain of my college team.

Multiple Gold Medals in Various Olympiads.

Was the Board Member of a club in college and organized various events both Technical such as lectures and seminars from industry leaders and Non-Technical such as stand up comedy and music nights.

Was involved with an Ngo for 3 months as a part of which we taught under-privileged kids various subjects.

Was involved in another Ngo for nearly a decade where young kids are encouraged to take up science by teaching them various experiments. I initially joined as a student myself but later on when I got into college I served as an instructor for about 3 years.

I recently started a small women's clothing brand with a friend of mine which I manage along with my full time job.

I recently met with a consultancy and they said that I might not be able to get into a good MBA program due to my limited work experience. Can anyone help me with the same?? And if so what are the alternatives to MBA that I can target??

Posted from my mobile device
User avatar
MBAGuide
Joined: 24 Jul 2019
Last visit: 30 Apr 2026
Posts: 2,373
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 28
Location: India
Concentration: Operations, Marketing
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
darthdhruvit
Hi,
I'm a 22 year old Male.I graduated in 2022 from a University ranked 46th in India where I studied B.Tech in Electrical Engineering. I've been working with TCS as a Data Analyst for a year. Currently I am working on Woolworths Project, where we basically manage its Data and provide backend support.

Cgpa 7.8
Gmat 710
Toefl 111

1 Month Internship at a company Manufacturing Solar Cells

Undertook a project where I constructed a 2 motors: A Radial Flux Motor and An Axial Flux Motor

6 Months industry internship with TCS on Data Analysis and Integration which was converted to a full time job

Extra curriculars:-
I was the Cricket as well as football Captain of my college team.

Multiple Gold Medals in Various Olympiads.

Was the Board Member of a club in college and organized various events both Technical such as lectures and seminars from industry leaders and Non-Technical such as stand up comedy and music nights.

Was involved with an Ngo for 3 months as a part of which we taught under-privileged kids various subjects.

Was involved in another Ngo for nearly a decade where young kids are encouraged to take up science by teaching them various experiments. I initially joined as a student myself but later on when I got into college I served as an instructor for about 3 years.

I recently started a small women's clothing brand with a friend of mine which I manage along with my full time job.

I recently met with a consultancy and they said that I might not be able to get into a good MBA program due to my limited work experience. Can anyone help me with the same?? And if so what are the alternatives to MBA that I can target??


darthdhruvit given your limited experience and age, you make a better candidate for PGDMs (2year MBAs in India via the CAT route) or MiM (Masters in Management).

You are a relatively young applicant for 1 year MBA or a 2-year MBA in the US; however, if you give yourself some more time to enhance your profile (At least 1 more year before you can apply to ISB) you could grab projects and professional opportunities that add a new dimension to your portfolio. If you missed having this realization earlier, the profile enhancement would need to show as a take-off point in your career graph depending on your goals. For example, in a strategic role in a startup or in consulting where you get hands-on experience in the building blocks of businesses, negotiate an international assignment, or get into beginner roles in an industry you want to break into post MBA. I feel there would be no dearth of opportunities for someone young and ambitious.

Feel free to get candid advice on applications.
Best wishes

Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex-INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message: +91 9971200927| email- [email protected]
User avatar
DaringJat
Joined: 13 May 2021
Last visit: 28 May 2024
Posts: 5
Given Kudos: 1
Posts: 5
Kudos: 0
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Thank you Aanchal,

I agree but I attended IMT ghaziabad last year for a few months. I found out that they were all concerned with placements: students, professors and management alike. Similar is the scenario with all other Indian B schools from what I heard. A sad crowd worried about saturating themselves with professionalism and polishing to look good in an XYZ company's roles, certainly compromises creativity and at the least doesn't provide an environment where you'd find novel ideas (there of course are many gifted individuals; they just don't think beyond jobs). I don't know about ISB though. But certainly the proportion of out of the box thinkers are greater in US I'd think from my past experience. I am not worried about the investment it takes if I can learn something worthwhile since I have decent backup behind. Also, my goals, if possible, include getting investments and connections for a potential overseas expansion if I think it wise. One question here is if the colleges in US (or EU/UK for that matter) will appreciate my goals or will they find me an unattractive candidate given my priorities and thus, my unemployability?

What are the key flaws that I might need to address in my profile? Do I elaborate on my experience in IMT Ghaziabad, a reputed institute for marketing, but which I dropped out of very soon? Do I elaborate on my past experience as an undergrad in USA but again, where I dropped out? I certainly can talk endlessly about my startup but again, which elements do I highlight best for it to appear suited to their preferences? Also, I dropped out on two occasions, once owing to health reasons, then again because I didn't find it suited to my goals : How is this to be presented for it to not appear as a red flag?

Thanks
User avatar
MBAGuide
Joined: 24 Jul 2019
Last visit: 30 Apr 2026
Posts: 2,373
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 28
Location: India
Concentration: Operations, Marketing
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
DaringJat
Thank you Aanchal,

I agree but I attended IMT ghaziabad last year for a few months. I found out that they were all concerned with placements: students, professors and management alike. Similar is the scenario with all other Indian B schools from what I heard. A sad crowd worried about saturating themselves with professionalism and polishing to look good in an XYZ company's roles, certainly compromises creativity and at the least doesn't provide an environment where you'd find novel ideas (there of course are many gifted individuals; they just don't think beyond jobs). I don't know about ISB though. But certainly the proportion of out of the box thinkers are greater in US I'd think from my past experience. I am not worried about the investment it takes if I can learn something worthwhile since I have decent backup behind. Also, my goals, if possible, include getting investments and connections for a potential overseas expansion if I think it wise. One question here is if the colleges in US (or EU/UK for that matter) will appreciate my goals or will they find me an unattractive candidate given my priorities and thus, my unemployability?

What are the key flaws that I might need to address in my profile? Do I elaborate on my experience in IMT Ghaziabad, a reputed institute for marketing, but which I dropped out of very soon? Do I elaborate on my past experience as an undergrad in USA but again, where I dropped out? I certainly can talk endlessly about my startup but again, which elements do I highlight best for it to appear suited to their preferences? Also, I dropped out on two occasions, once owing to health reasons, then again because I didn't find it suited to my goals : How is this to be presented for it to not appear as a red flag?

Thanks


DaringJat

allow me to gently challenge your perspective. Business schools aren't exactly in the parental role, fussing over your job prospects even when you're not inclined to look for one. 😄
Pursuing an entrepreneurial path is just as normal as choosing a traditional job.

For the rest, you could connect one to one with me.
best wishes,
Do not hesitate to reach out to us for help with interview preparation or if you need help navigating your unique circumstances in the B School admissions process.

Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message: +91 9971200927| email- [email protected]
User avatar
MBAandBeyond
User avatar
MBA and Beyond Consulting
Joined: 13 Jul 2020
Last visit: 30 Apr 2026
Posts: 4,468
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 173
Status:MBA Admissions Consulting from INSEAD, Wharton and Columbia graduates
Affiliations: INSEAD and Harvard
Location: Singapore
Expert
Expert reply
Posts: 4,468
Kudos: 954
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Hello darthdhruvit,

I hope you are doing good. You have a strong profile with a diverse set of experiences and achievements. While you do have limited work experience compared to some MBA applicants, you still have several options to consider for your career path. Considering that you're only 22 and already have a year of work experience as a Data Analyst, you could continue working for a few more years to build a stronger professional track record.

If you're interested in honing your skills in a specific area, you might consider specialized master's programs such as Master's in Data Science, Business Analytics, or Finance. These programs are often shorter in duration than an MBA and can provide you with targeted skills and knowledge. Similar to specialized master's programs, there are diploma or certificate programs that offer focused training in areas like data analytics, project management, or entrepreneurship. These can help you develop expertise in a specific domain.

Utilize your current role to build a strong professional network and continue developing your skills. Networking and skill enhancement can open doors to new opportunities and career growth. If you're set on pursuing an MBA, you could wait a few more years and apply with a stronger work experience background. Many business schools value candidates with substantial work experience who can contribute meaningfully to class discussions.

The right choice will depend on your goals, strengths, and the direction you want to take in your career. Your early accomplishments and experiences already indicate a proactive and driven approach to your professional development, which will serve you well in whatever path you choose.

We offer a limited number of complimentary profile evaluations each week . We match you with the students and alums of top B-Schools according to your background and target schools. In this call, the experts will try to dig out your USP for top B-schools and provide you with honest feedback on your profile and chances to your target schools.

Book a free profile evaluation call now!

Neha Hadke
Strategy Manager
Testimonials
Meet our Panel of Consultants.
Email: [email protected]
MBA and Beyond




darthdhruvit
Hi,
I'm a 22 year old Male.I graduated in 2022 from a University ranked 46th in India where I studied B.Tech in Electrical Engineering. I've been working with TCS as a Data Analyst for a year. Currently I am working on Woolworths Project, where we basically manage its Data and provide backend support.

Cgpa 7.8
Gmat 710
Toefl 111

1 Month Internship at a company Manufacturing Solar Cells

Undertook a project where I constructed a 2 motors: A Radial Flux Motor and An Axial Flux Motor

6 Months industry internship with TCS on Data Analysis and Integration which was converted to a full time job

Extra curriculars:-
I was the Cricket as well as football Captain of my college team.

Multiple Gold Medals in Various Olympiads.

Was the Board Member of a club in college and organized various events both Technical such as lectures and seminars from industry leaders and Non-Technical such as stand up comedy and music nights.

Was involved with an Ngo for 3 months as a part of which we taught under-privileged kids various subjects.

Was involved in another Ngo for nearly a decade where young kids are encouraged to take up science by teaching them various experiments. I initially joined as a student myself but later on when I got into college I served as an instructor for about 3 years.

I recently started a small women's clothing brand with a friend of mine which I manage along with my full time job.

I recently met with a consultancy and they said that I might not be able to get into a good MBA program due to my limited work experience. Can anyone help me with the same?? And if so what are the alternatives to MBA that I can target??
User avatar
Ash1ish
Joined: 22 Nov 2020
Last visit: 05 May 2024
Posts: 29
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 16
Location: India
GMAT 1: 690 Q48 V36
GPA: 3.59
GMAT 1: 690 Q48 V36
Posts: 29
Kudos: 9
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Hello Everyone

The Question: Should I apply to Insead & LBS
Fixed Decisions: I will be applying to Oxford & Cambridge
Background:
1. GMAT: 690 (Still trying to improve :cry:)
2. Workexp: two business
a. Sports retail: Family 30k/yr pounds turnover
b. Skincare: I started when there were 10 people / now we have 500+ (& a Unicorn); I have worked with the founder throughout
3. Ex: National skater, state gold medalist, Music band which has won national competitions, National engineering competitions, & published papers
Post MBA:
1. Consulting (Strategy)
2. Long-term: My own venture (non-negotiable)
Disclosure:
The careers team at both places is not very important to me; I think I can do the groundwork, but this feels more like a fear of missing out on a scenario. I am agnostic to the choice of location.
Non-negotiable:
1. Brand Name
2. People (I like stealing the way people think; diversity means more people to steal from)


Now the brief,
I was set on only applying to Oxford & Cambridge, but after taking to Aluminis from all four schools I have been made to feel like I have to apply to all four schools. My goals were being met by the first two schools & hence decided to not go ahead with anything else. I am collecting opinions on what should be my play here.

Disclaimer:
I may not get into any of these schools; just trying to orient myself (I am not arrogant; if you feel my text is, please do let me know I will try to change).


Please do let me know what you lot think, this will very help full for me.


Thank you
User avatar
admitStreet
Joined: 14 Mar 2023
Last visit: 30 Apr 2026
Posts: 1,701
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 15
Location: India
Concentration: Strategy, Finance
WE:Management Consulting (Consulting)
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Ash1ish
Hello Everyone

The Question: Should I apply to Insead & LBS
Fixed Decisions: I will be applying to Oxford & Cambridge
Background:
1. GMAT: 690 (Still trying to improve :cry:)
2. Workexp: two business
a. Sports retail: Family 30k/yr pounds turnover
b. Skincare: I started when there were 10 people / now we have 500+ (& a Unicorn); I have worked with the founder throughout
3. Ex: National skater, state gold medalist, Music band which has won national competitions, National engineering competitions, & published papers
Post MBA:
1. Consulting (Strategy)
2. Long-term: My own venture (non-negotiable)
Disclosure:
The careers team at both places is not very important to me; I think I can do the groundwork, but this feels more like a fear of missing out on a scenario. I am agnostic to the choice of location.
Non-negotiable:
1. Brand Name
2. People (I like stealing the way people think; diversity means more people to steal from)


Now the brief,
I was set on only applying to Oxford & Cambridge, but after taking to Aluminis from all four schools I have been made to feel like I have to apply to all four schools. My goals were being met by the first two schools & hence decided to not go ahead with anything else. I am collecting opinions on what should be my play here.

Disclaimer:
I may not get into any of these schools; just trying to orient myself (I am not arrogant; if you feel my text is, please do let me know I will try to change).


Please do let me know what you lot think, this will very help full for me.


Thank you

Ash1ish - quick q's before sharing some feedback:

1. How many years have you worked in the businesses (sports retail & skincare)? And can you share a bit about your roles/ involvement there i.e. which functions did you handle, did you lead teams etc.?

2. Do you speak any European language?

3. What's the Q/ V split of your current (690)? And are you looking to apply in R1/ R2, given that it seems you are planning a retake?

Regards,
Arvind
HEC Paris MBA alum, Admissions interviewer
W:https://admitstreet.com| E: [email protected]
User avatar
Ash1ish
Joined: 22 Nov 2020
Last visit: 05 May 2024
Posts: 29
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 16
Location: India
GMAT 1: 690 Q48 V36
GPA: 3.59
GMAT 1: 690 Q48 V36
Posts: 29
Kudos: 9
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
admitStreet
Ash1ish
Hello Everyone

The Question: Should I apply to Insead & LBS
Fixed Decisions: I will be applying to Oxford & Cambridge
Background:
1. GMAT: 690 (Still trying to improve :cry:)
2. Workexp: two business
a. Sports retail: Family 30k/yr pounds turnover
b. Skincare: I started when there were 10 people / now we have 500+ (& a Unicorn); I have worked with the founder throughout
3. Ex: National skater, state gold medalist, Music band which has won national competitions, National engineering competitions, & published papers
Post MBA:
1. Consulting (Strategy)
2. Long-term: My own venture (non-negotiable)
Disclosure:
The careers team at both places is not very important to me; I think I can do the groundwork, but this feels more like a fear of missing out on a scenario. I am agnostic to the choice of location.
Non-negotiable:
1. Brand Name
2. People (I like stealing the way people think; diversity means more people to steal from)


Now the brief,
I was set on only applying to Oxford & Cambridge, but after taking to Aluminis from all four schools I have been made to feel like I have to apply to all four schools. My goals were being met by the first two schools & hence decided to not go ahead with anything else. I am collecting opinions on what should be my play here.

Disclaimer:
I may not get into any of these schools; just trying to orient myself (I am not arrogant; if you feel my text is, please do let me know I will try to change).


Please do let me know what you lot think, this will very help full for me.


Thank you

Ash1ish - quick q's before sharing some feedback:

1. How many years have you worked in the businesses (sports retail & skincare)? And can you share a bit about your roles/ involvement there i.e. which functions did you handle, did you lead teams etc.?

2. Do you speak any European language?

3. What's the Q/ V split of your current (690)? And are you looking to apply in R1/ R2, given that it seems you are planning a retake?

Regards,
Arvind
HEC Paris MBA alum, Admissions interviewer
W:https://admitstreet.com| E: [email protected]



Hello Arvind

1. 1.5 years, after which I have been an external consultant (5.4 years) sports retail: Moved the business online, started a brick and motor store, handled in rotation 5 people
5+ years: Skin care: More than 10 people (Matrix & organizational structure); International market expansion (20+ products), product strategy (80+ product launches), portfolio management, QC department, International regulatory department
2. No, unfortunately
3. 690 (V36;Q48); R1, Aim is for R1; my Oxford and said applications are complete, just waiting for GMAT score. and I confirmed with all the schools that I could share a updated GMAT score after 2 weeks of the deadline
User avatar
MBAandBeyond
User avatar
MBA and Beyond Consulting
Joined: 13 Jul 2020
Last visit: 30 Apr 2026
Posts: 4,468
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 173
Status:MBA Admissions Consulting from INSEAD, Wharton and Columbia graduates
Affiliations: INSEAD and Harvard
Location: Singapore
Expert
Expert reply
Posts: 4,468
Kudos: 954
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Hello Ash1ish

I hope you are doing good. It sounds like you have some great options on your plate, and your background is quite impressive. You have decided to apply to Oxford & Cambridge, and they align with your goals. The brand name and diversity aspects are important which these schools can offer. Your post-MBA goals of consulting and eventually starting your own venture could be supported by the networks and resources these universities provide. Both schools have strong reputations and can open doors in various industries.

Speaking about INSEAD and LBS, they are also renowned business schools with global recognition. Your diverse work experience and international exposure might resonate well with the international focus of INSEAD's program. LBS could provide strong networking opportunities in the UK, which might be beneficial if you're considering long-term ventures there.

While you mentioned you're location-agnostic, it's worth considering where you'd like to potentially establish connections and networks. Some regions might align better with your future entrepreneurial plans. Applying to multiple schools can be time-consuming and stressful. Ensure you can put forth your best effort for each application. Consider where you can get the strongest recommendation letters based on your relationships with professionals in your network. As you mentioned, it's important to remain open to the possibility that you might not get into any of these schools. Have a backup plan in mind. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this decision. Take the time to reflect on your priorities. Good luck with your decision and your applications!

We offer a limited number of complimentary profile evaluations each week . We match you with the students and alums of top B-Schools according to your background and target schools. In this call, the experts will try to dig out your USP for top B-schools and provide you with honest feedback on your profile and chances to your target schools.

Book a free profile evaluation call now!

Neha Hadke
Strategy Manager
Testimonials
Meet our Panel of Consultants.
Email: [email protected]
MBA and Beyond


Ash1ish
Hello Everyone

The Question: Should I apply to Insead & LBS
Fixed Decisions: I will be applying to Oxford & Cambridge
Background:
1. GMAT: 690 (Still trying to improve :cry:)
2. Workexp: two business
a. Sports retail: Family 30k/yr pounds turnover
b. Skincare: I started when there were 10 people / now we have 500+ (& a Unicorn); I have worked with the founder throughout
3. Ex: National skater, state gold medalist, Music band which has won national competitions, National engineering competitions, & published papers
Post MBA:
1. Consulting (Strategy)
2. Long-term: My own venture (non-negotiable)
Disclosure:
The careers team at both places is not very important to me; I think I can do the groundwork, but this feels more like a fear of missing out on a scenario. I am agnostic to the choice of location.
Non-negotiable:
1. Brand Name
2. People (I like stealing the way people think; diversity means more people to steal from)


Now the brief,
I was set on only applying to Oxford & Cambridge, but after taking to Aluminis from all four schools I have been made to feel like I have to apply to all four schools. My goals were being met by the first two schools & hence decided to not go ahead with anything else. I am collecting opinions on what should be my play here.

Disclaimer:
I may not get into any of these schools; just trying to orient myself (I am not arrogant; if you feel my text is, please do let me know I will try to change).


Please do let me know what you lot think, this will very help full for me.


Thank you
User avatar
MBAGuide
Joined: 24 Jul 2019
Last visit: 30 Apr 2026
Posts: 2,373
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 28
Location: India
Concentration: Operations, Marketing
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Ash1ish
Hello Everyone

The Question: Should I apply to Insead & LBS
Fixed Decisions: I will be applying to Oxford & Cambridge
Background:
1. GMAT: 690 (Still trying to improve :cry:)
2. Workexp: two business
a. Sports retail: Family 30k/yr pounds turnover
b. Skincare: I started when there were 10 people / now we have 500+ (& a Unicorn); I have worked with the founder throughout
3. Ex: National skater, state gold medalist, Music band which has won national competitions, National engineering competitions, & published papers
Post MBA:
1. Consulting (Strategy)
2. Long-term: My own venture (non-negotiable)
Disclosure:
The careers team at both places is not very important to me; I think I can do the groundwork, but this feels more like a fear of missing out on a scenario. I am agnostic to the choice of location.
Non-negotiable:
1. Brand Name
2. People (I like stealing the way people think; diversity means more people to steal from)


Now the brief,
I was set on only applying to Oxford & Cambridge, but after taking to Aluminis from all four schools I have been made to feel like I have to apply to all four schools. My goals were being met by the first two schools & hence decided to not go ahead with anything else. I am collecting opinions on what should be my play here.

Disclaimer:
I may not get into any of these schools; just trying to orient myself (I am not arrogant; if you feel my text is, please do let me know I will try to change).


Please do let me know what you lot think, this will very help full for me.


Thank you


Ash1ish

I am an INSEAD alumna, and I have served tenure as an MBA interviewer for INSEAD. I hope I can help you with some meaningful advice.

On the surface, your entrepreneurship experience seems to have good potential to shape the narrative and there's a decent chance to convert LBS or INSEAD. If you were on the founding team of a unicorn in the skin care industry, that really means something! I am sure a lot depends on the details I do not know about you yet (for example the level of your contribution, who can give you the LORs), but I would not worry about a 690 if your application and LORs really corroborate big achievements (as long as the score is balanced, i.e., a high Q score). You really are cut for all things great in life then :D

Remember that your professional background and work history is the most important part that B-schools will judge you on. So, make sure you represent this well in your essays. It is also important that you describe your motivations for accepting a variety of career opportunities and demonstrate your growth mindset in terms of the leadership position you aspire to after the MBA.

As an entrepreneur, your 2 stints should focus on A) demonstrating the scale (think growth rate) of your business and the impact, B) having a solid plan for the future, whether in a job or in your own business and how the particular school would help you build the network and your brand. As a new generation in the family business, you can also showcase your ideas by citing your fresh and unconventional approach to business (as opposed to the traditional approaches currently followed) as your motivation for pursuing the MBA before taking a leadership position in your family business. The MBA application has plenty of room to talk about all the interesting things. So, make the most of it.

As for your concerns about language, do not worry because proficiency in a third language is not a criterion on the INSEAD evaluation form that your interviewer will fill out after the interview. Going out of your comfort zone to learn a 3rd language demonstrates a growth mindset and looks good on your application. It's good to start early but don't let the lack of its knowledge hold you back from applying.

Get personalized advice tailored to your specific situation. Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need help navigating your unique circumstances in the B School admissions process. We do not cap discussion hours with our applicants

Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message(WA): +91 9971200927| email- [email protected]
User avatar
Ash1ish
Joined: 22 Nov 2020
Last visit: 05 May 2024
Posts: 29
Own Kudos:
Given Kudos: 16
Location: India
GMAT 1: 690 Q48 V36
GPA: 3.59
GMAT 1: 690 Q48 V36
Posts: 29
Kudos: 9
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
MBAGuide
Ash1ish
Hello Everyone

The Question: Should I apply to Insead & LBS
Fixed Decisions: I will be applying to Oxford & Cambridge
Background:
1. GMAT: 690 (Still trying to improve :cry:)
2. Workexp: two business
a. Sports retail: Family 30k/yr pounds turnover
b. Skincare: I started when there were 10 people / now we have 500+ (& a Unicorn); I have worked with the founder throughout
3. Ex: National skater, state gold medalist, Music band which has won national competitions, National engineering competitions, & published papers
Post MBA:
1. Consulting (Strategy)
2. Long-term: My own venture (non-negotiable)
Disclosure:
The careers team at both places is not very important to me; I think I can do the groundwork, but this feels more like a fear of missing out on a scenario. I am agnostic to the choice of location.
Non-negotiable:
1. Brand Name
2. People (I like stealing the way people think; diversity means more people to steal from)


Now the brief,
I was set on only applying to Oxford & Cambridge, but after taking to Aluminis from all four schools I have been made to feel like I have to apply to all four schools. My goals were being met by the first two schools & hence decided to not go ahead with anything else. I am collecting opinions on what should be my play here.

Disclaimer:
I may not get into any of these schools; just trying to orient myself (I am not arrogant; if you feel my text is, please do let me know I will try to change).


Please do let me know what you lot think, this will very help full for me.


Thank you


Ash1ish

I am an INSEAD alumna, and I have served tenure as an MBA interviewer for INSEAD. I hope I can help you with some meaningful advice.

On the surface, your entrepreneurship experience seems to have good potential to shape the narrative and there's a decent chance to convert LBS or INSEAD. If you were on the founding team of a unicorn in the skin care industry, that really means something! I am sure a lot depends on the details I do not know about you yet (for example the level of your contribution, who can give you the LORs), but I would not worry about a 690 if your application and LORs really corroborate big achievements (as long as the score is balanced, i.e., a high Q score). You really are cut for all things great in life then :D

Remember that your professional background and work history is the most important part that B-schools will judge you on. So, make sure you represent this well in your essays. It is also important that you describe your motivations for accepting a variety of career opportunities and demonstrate your growth mindset in terms of the leadership position you aspire to after the MBA.

As an entrepreneur, your 2 stints should focus on A) demonstrating the scale (think growth rate) of your business and the impact, B) having a solid plan for the future, whether in a job or in your own business and how the particular school would help you build the network and your brand. As a new generation in the family business, you can also showcase your ideas by citing your fresh and unconventional approach to business (as opposed to the traditional approaches currently followed) as your motivation for pursuing the MBA before taking a leadership position in your family business. The MBA application has plenty of room to talk about all the interesting things. So, make the most of it.

As for your concerns about language, do not worry because proficiency in a third language is not a criterion on the INSEAD evaluation form that your interviewer will fill out after the interview. Going out of your comfort zone to learn a 3rd language demonstrates a growth mindset and looks good on your application. It's good to start early but don't let the lack of its knowledge hold you back from applying.

Get personalized advice tailored to your specific situation. Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need help navigating your unique circumstances in the B School admissions process. We do not cap discussion hours with our applicants

Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, ex INSEAD MBA admissions interviewer)
MBAGuideConsulting
LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message(WA): +91 9971200927| email- [email protected]


Thank you Aanchal

I think I will go ahead and apply to INSEAD; take a shot in the dark

To answer your questions
1. I have a significant contribution to the organizational growth (I spoke to a few people from MBB who agreeed the way I have presented my ex. was what consulting companies expect from a candidate)
2. The LOR's will be from the founders/director
   1  ...  14   15   16   17   18  ...  25