MBA on the Horizon

Last Wednesday, I attended a Wharton info session while I was on a business trip. As is my usual practice at Wharton activities, I only found even more things that I love about the school and became even more convinced that I want to go there. For example, one of the alumni spoke about his experiences with the Global Consulting Practicum. A small group of students consults with a company overseas on a project, partnering with other students in country, traveling there to meet with the company. You get hands on international consulting experience as a part of a class...wow.

Afterwards, I spoke with one of the admissions folks who was there. He was a nice guy; I even remember reading his blog when he was a student. Lately, I have been questioning my GMAT score, and specifically the quant side. I have a good overall score, but my verbal is pulling up a 70th percentile quant. I believe that I can convince the adcom of my quant abilities by my undergrad and professional work, but the guy I spoke with made a good point: I will be competing against people who aren't making up for anything in that department, and they have an advantage in that way.

I understand that it's a small part of a big picture application, which is why I didn't retake the test months ago. Then I considered the following: it's my absolute dream school that wants 80th percentile quant. A higher GMAT score wouldn't hurt at the other schools, either. I really think I can achieve that with a tutor and some different study materials. The GMAT is something that I can still control and influence. And hell, even if I can't achieve the 80th percentile goal, at least I won't look back and wonder what would have happened if I had just given it one more try.

The admissions person also, very emphatically, stressed that the chances in Round 1 and Round 2 are no different. I know the word on the street is that the superstars apply in Round 1 and it's the best shot, but I also think I should get over myself and listen to what the school is actually saying - the 80/80 thing matters, and the round thing doesn't.

So, here we go again. I'm meeting with a tutor on Saturday (I couldn't find any good classes for advanced quant only) and I'll be back to studying.

I also went to a MBA event tonight to see Cornell. I spoke with the admissions committee rep there, and learned some good info from her as well. I'm interested in their Park Fellowship, and she said that the rounds do matter with them, and also that they allow updates to applications (who knew??). So, I can apply in November and update them with my score later if it's worth it. She also mentioned that their benchmark is 65th percentile, so it's less critical with them, but considering the stakes are a full ride plus stipend and what sounds like a fantastic leadership/service program, I'll give myself the best shot I can.

Somehow, I've prolonged this process for myself and will be crazy and stressed for another three months. My poor boyfriend is incredibly supportive but I'm sure he's wishing he didn't have to deal with "GMAT/application process" me for even longer. But when I start getting down and stressed, I just remember that this is just a few months of hard work where I'm doing my best to achieve my dream. And this way, if I don't make it, at least I know I gave it everything I've got.

Posted in: GMAT on Thursday, October 01, 2009 at at 10:34 PM