Quant boosts

[tamar.jaffe]

Hello,

I was wondering if you could provide some info on taking a summer course at a community college/university to compensate for a mediocre quant score. Specifically, are there any classes in general I should enroll in?

The local university offers algebra I & II, linear algebra, Stat I & II, pre calc, Calc, managerial acct and financial accounting.

I am hoping to apply for fall 2010 to a top 15 program. My GMAT was a 700 (q44 v41). I need to demonstrate that I am capable with quant, but I don't want to take a class that is unnecessarily difficult. For example, would taking stat I or algebra I help my cause for applying to a top 15 program (or are these too basic)? I know, for instance, that linear algebra may look very good on my application, but I don't know if I have the time to dedicate to such a rigorous course at the moment. On the same token, I don't want to take a course that is overly easy and provides no benefits in terms of my application.

Any help you could provide would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

P.S. How does the quality of the institution you enroll in for a summer course impact the admissions board at the school you wish to apply to for your mba?

[mbamission]

Hello Tamar,

I think that any of the quantitative classes that you could have taken in college will help you demonstrate your quantitative abilities - with the exception of pre-calculus, which seems like it is a class that prepares students for a calculus class. In terms of the quality of the institution, I would urge you to use your best judgment. You don’t have to take classes at Harvard in order to demonstrate your abilities. Taking classes at one of the colleges in your area should be fine.

Sincerely,
Akiba Smith-Francis
MBA Mission

646-485-8844

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