profile evaluation

[mahardy]

Hi,

I'm starting the process to apply to B-schools for entry in the fall of 2010 and was wondering what you think my chances may be.

Academics:
Top 25 Liberal Arts School, Class of 2007
Major: Political Science; Minor: Econ
Cum GPA: 3.3; Major GPA: 3.5; Minor GPA: 3.5; cumulative GPA was drug down by poor freshman year

CFA Level 3 Candidate

Haven't taken official GMAT but scoring 700+ on practice exams with 80%+ in quant and verbal

Extracurriculars:
Student Body President, Junior Class President, Sophomore Class Senator, Freshman Orientation Leader, active in intramural sports; actively involved in volunteer activities since graduation

Work Experience:
Here is where I may be in trouble. I worked at a well known hedge fund for about a year and half after graduation, was let go in November for economic reasons, been actively looking, and maintaining a busy schedule ever since.

Schools:
These are my reach schools and I know I am by no means guaranteed entry, I am trying to get a feel for how competitive I can be:

Penn, top choice
Harvard
Chicago
Berkley
Columbia

Thanks for your time!

Best regards,
Mike

[mbamission]

Hi Mike,

Your undergraduate grades are average when compared to the profiles of students applying to your target programs, but your grades are still respectable. You were quite active in undergrad and your leadership across various groups/activities should be a strong point in your application. You do have a limited amount of work experience however. While business schools understand that many applicants are unemployed, you still need to show that you have quality work experience. You will not be penalized for not working, but staying active and being able to detail that in your application will be key. Hopefully, you'll achieve your desired GMAT score and your CFA candidacy which should make you competitive at Booth. Haas tends to have more experienced students, but you can be competitive there as well. I think Harvard, Wharton and Columbia will be reach schools for you however.

I hope this helps!

Monica Okrah
MBA Mission
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