Am I qualified? Turning 29 in March

[yj3983]

Hi, I have not yet taken the GMAT, but hope to be in the 710-720 range, and was looking for some advice on whether I would or would not be a good candidate.


Educational background:

Certified Public Accountant - Passed 2010

Masters of Science in Accounting - Roosevelt University - December 2006
(Chicago) - 3.8/4.0 GPA - Graduated with honors

(This is my biggest concern, that I did not go to a reputable school)

Undergrad - Roosevelt University (Chicago)
December 2005
Undergraduate in Business Admininstration with an emphasis in Accounting (3.4/4.0 GPA)

Work Experience:

Big 4 Firm (January 2007-December 2009)
Tax Analyst


January 2010-March 2011
Took time off to start my own CPA practice. Eventually realized it would be better to be working for a major corporation.

April 2011- to present
Currently working for a publicly traded company
Senior Tax Accountant

I have a long list of responsiblities at each organization, implementing systems, improving business processes, and mentoring staff - including nternational experience with teaching staff in India and UK. I have also been invloved with a couple of different countries and working with authorities on transfer pricing issues.
(I just wanted to give you a brief idea of my background without spitting out 15 pages)

As far as volunteer programs - I do volunteer at my local temple to raise money for certain charities (I could improve in this area).

Recommendations: I'm confident I can get rec's from a partner at a Big 4 firm and the CEO of my company.

Reason for MBA: Want to move into a Finance role - now that I have a strong background of accounting and taxes.

Schools Applying To: Ideally any top 10

Do you think I am a qualified applicant for these schools despite my undergrad being from a school that isnt as reputable as most? What do you think of my current work experience?
I'm starting the Manhattan GMAT on March 10th. I've never opened a GMAT book in my life. Do you think the Manhattan GMAT caters to individuals that start from ground zero, or those that have made head way and are looking to get to mid 700's? All honest, blunt advice would be much appreciated.

[rachel]

Hi!! There are many applicants to business schools every year that are absolutely qualified. What gets people in to schools is their ability to show the AdCom that they offer something special or different. The way to do that is to highlight your accomplishments, not responsibilities, throughout your career. You also need to show how you are involved in your community - and that doesn't necessarily have to mean just through community service. Lastly, there's the GMAT, and how you score.

The goal of your application is to lay out your case of why you need business school to further your career. Also, look for experiences you have had that can differentiate you from other candidates. One thing that sounds interesting in your experiences is the fact you started your own CPA firm and then decided to close it to go work at a major corporation instead. What you learned from opening and closing your firm can surely be used in your application. In addition, you have international experience that you can highlight.

Best of luck,

Rachel Beck

http://www.mbamission.com

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