realistic expectations for a nontraditional candidate

[njdesai]

U.S. citizen, Indian, Female, 26

GPA: 3.76 from Georgetown University School of Foreign Service. Majored in Science policy. Limited undergraduate Quant record; took Stats, several Economics classes and Intro to Computer Science -- As or A-s in all courses.

GMAT: 620 (Math:35/Verbal:40)

Work Experience: Almost 5 years in government, focused on foreign policy. Worked at the State Department and the White House on foreign policy issues. Significant international work experience, primarily in South Asia.

Extra Curricular: Active involvement and leadership in extracurriculars during college, including dance team and tutoring program. Continued participation in community post-college, including service with my yoga studio. Currently, working on my yoga certification.

I'm still exploring the option of a dual degree with an MBA and a Masters in Public Policy. My goal is to either return to government with an advanced degree or work for a small non-profit focused on nutrition and healthy living.

Currently I'm thinking:
-University of California, Berkeley (MBA/MPH)
-Duke(MBA/MPP)
-NYU(MBA/MPA)
-IESE (MBA)
-LSB (MBA)

I would consider attending business school part-time, but would be limited to NYU, Berkeley and Georgetown due to my job.

I know my GMAT score leaves much to be desired, but I have a very unique story to tell in terms of work experience and post-MBA plans. I have a solid undergraduate background; I think my proven track record for success in professional and academic settings is a good basis for applying to these schools, but I'm not sure how much my GMAT score will hurt my application. I intend to take the GMAT again, but am uncertain of the results; I got the score I expected to get when I tested. Am I setting myself up for disappointment by being unrealistic?

[mbamission]

Hi Njdesai,

Thanks for writing in. While it does seem that you may have an interesting story/profile to share, unfortunately the gap between your target schools and their median GMAT is big. While GMATs are only part of the application, your story would be easier to sell if you had a score around 660, which is still below the median at those schools.

From your list, I think Georgetown part-time could be in range, given your current score. With your job and location requirements, perhaps American or GW could be options? I think retaking the GMAT is the right idea for you, since if you can get that score up a lot more doors will be open for you.

Best of luck!
Daniel Richards
http://www.mbamission.com

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