Profile Evaluation

[morgankho]

Hello,
I am requesting a profile evaluation. I am probably an unusual candidate for an MBA, but I would like to change careers and I am hoping an MBA can help me with this goal.

I am also not in a rush to apply to b-school, because I know my profile is not strong, but any tips to improve my profile would be greatly appreciated.

Quick summary of me:
University of Southern California - Class of 2006
BA - Cinema-Television Critical Studies
GPA: 3.6
Have not yet taken the GMAT. I am prepping to take it early fall.

I am currently working as an administrative assistant in the entertainment industry. The entertainment industry is "apprentice" oriented, which means that most people start at the very bottom and work their way through the ranks to executive positions. This used to be a viable path for most people coming out of film school, but unfortunately since the economy has gone south the market is over saturated with experienced entertainment assistants that are all vying for promotions into an increasingly slim number of executive jobs.

So because entertainment is a shrinking industry I would like to change careers. I am most interested in moving into marketing and specifically brand management. I am thinking about targeting my application to schools with strong marketing programs.

My resume includes:
1 year working as an office production assistant at a visual effects company
1 year working at a major talent agency as an assistant to a TV agent
3 years working at a broadcast network as an assistant to the head of a department

As an assistant in the entertainment industry I've gained a lot of "soft skills." For example, I am good with deadlines / high pressure. I've also learned to manage and work with a diverse number of personalities on various TV / film projects and lastly I can evaluate material to assess how "good" it is creatively. I'm very good in a team oriented / creative environment. However, because I've only been an assistant I lack a lot of leadership experience, which I know is an important aspect of any potential MBA profile.

I have personal hobbies, but I am not part of any outside organizations. Am I at a real disadvantage because I have only administrative experience? Should I try to demonstrate my abilities in leadership by joining organizations outside of where I work? Any other general tips?

Thank you, and appreciated.

[mbamission]

Hi morgankho.

Thanks for writing in and providing all that detail. While you certainly not the most typical candidate, applicants are definitely coming from a broader range of backgrounds these days, and the schools are also looking to appeal to a more diverse group of candidates as well.

Overall -- your background will not exclude you, and in fact can help differentiate you from other candidates. While your background as an admin could be a negative factor you already point out all the skills you have learned in your position that will be useful in business. Make sure those shine through in your essays!

Since you are at least a year away from applying, I suggest finding a community activity that you can spend a substantial amount of time participating in, and will offer a leadership role. This can help balance concerns about your work experience.

Hope this is helpful and good luck!
Daniel Richards
http://www.mbamission.com

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[wellsronald18]

Hi there, I am although not a professional career counselor, but I think you are in no way an unusual profile. A 3.6 GPA is above average with 5 years of experience in the industry. Frankly speaking as per the standards your profile is good and above average applicants. But I would suggest that you try to get a position where the designation is other than assistant. I am sure that your rich experience of 5 years would help you get a better position. My best wishes and best of luck for near future.