mbaMissionMili wrote:
Wow - that is quite a background!
It's not impossible to overcome a spotted past, but it's not easy, either. Your application's strength is going to be "comeback kid" story aspect of it, the "I hit rock bottom, but I found my way." That can be a very powerful story if you tell it well.
But I also think you need to show that you really are on track by staying in your role, getting promoted, and showing continuity. Then, perhaps you could try to leverage your nonprofit experience into a position or fellowship at Ashoka? Just a thought... you want to show that you are working towards that goal of yours in the international development/microfinance space, but also really want to show that you are a top performer at a top organization (which it sounds like you have the opportunity to do right now).
Your band leadership/experience should make for some very interesting stories. I would also suggest you pick up some extracurricular leadership activities in the next couple years (whatever you like -- biking, triathlons, teaching music or maybe forming a new band, ... whatever you do, you should try to demonstrate leadership through it).
Academically, you'll need to blow the GMAT out of the water. Id say you should target a 730+ score if possible.
Those are the key things I would focus on improving over the next couple years. Remember that unfortunately, time is not on your side.. by my calculations you are about 31 years old, so if you were to wait 4 years, you'd be rather on the older side for applying to business school. Just keep this in mind.
Also keep in mind that you may not need business school to achieve your goals. Just something to think about.
Best,
Mili
Mili Mittal
Senior Consultant
Thank you, Mili. That is very sound advice. I will definitely try to do everything I can with the position I am fortunate to be holding.
Thankfully, though, your calculations are a little bit off! haha. I am 27 right now. Not necessarily spritely, persay, but not 31 just yet.
I should be done my BBA in August or December 2014.
As for leadership activities, it would be a tough squeeze as I already work two jobs, have many case competitions, am prepping for GMAT (and also LSAT), and I'm single-handedly trying to build up some HR analysis systems for the non-profit and develop sorely-needed training structures as it is growing so quickly. This all with a personal relationship. I could try a marathon maybe, though. I used to run cross-country back in high school.
Anyway, thanks once again for the advice.
Would you have any advice as to a shortlist of schools that might fit my tentative direction?
Thank you,
Colin