Profile evaluation

[kallegra]

Hi,
I am starting the application-writing process, and would love some guidance on my profile.

About me:
-GMAT 770 (Q50, V46)
-BA from Columbia (GPA 3.6)
-4 years work experience as a policy analyst at a nonprofit, with a focus on health policy -- progressive increases in responsibility, though currently my highest level of supervision is management of interns.
-Very little extracurricular leadership/community service
-Interest in health care management career

I'm looking at the top b-schools -- especially those in California. I know I am a non-traditional candidate (i.e., not finance or consulting) -- what should I be highlighting/focusing on?

Thanks in advance!

[mbamissionjenK]

Hi there,

On initial review of the info you listed, you have a strong profile, congrats! Being a non-traditional candidate can actually benefit you as it helps you stand out from the crowd and be remembered, especially if supported by strong academics and test scores, and yours are stellar. (Congrats on that GMAT!).

Despite the limited extracurriculars, your profile is strong enough in my opinion that IF you create compelling essays (showing who you are, what you'll bring to the class, what skills/experiences you have, why you want the MBA, and why xyz school is right for you), you should be well positioned for any top MBA program.

Just don't underestimate the importance of those essays... that is the one component of the application where you create something from SCRATCH to represent who you are!! Consider getting some feedback from either an admissions consultant or at the very least a friend/colleague with b-school experience. (Side note-- we do offer a free 30-minute consult to further discuss your profile and answer q's, if you are interested you can view that info at http://www.mbamission.com/consult.php).

As for schools, Haas comes to mind and possibly even Stanford as a slight reach but not impossible. Other strong schools in CA would include as you know, UCLA and USC. For healthcare generally, not in CA but you could look more into Wharton, Ross, Kenan-Flagler, Kellogg, Johns Hopkins... and there's always HBS and Columbia. ;)

Keep us posted on your q's and progress, would love to hear how things go!

[kallegra]

Jennifer --

Thanks for your thoughts on my profile, and for the recs on schools to look into. I am working on creating "compelling" essays but it's certainly an intimidating/time-consuming process! Thanks for your encouragement :)

I have a follow-up question -- I had a weird year and a half after graduating college (2008-2009, depth of recession), where I was working part-time in communications at a nonprofit, while simultaneously working full-time (50-60 hrs/wk) at a restaurant and doing some freelance writing. Subsequently, I landed at my current (much more mainstream) job where I've been for 4 years. My instinct is to be transparent about this early period, but not dwell too much. Do you feel like it needs more information than, for instance, a couple sentences they allow you to describe part-time jobs?

Kristin

[mbamissionjenK]

Hi Kristin-- I agree with your take on it--- brief, don't dwell. No problem with that, and brevity is appreciated wherever appropriate across the board anyway... good to prioritize and highlight/showcase what you most want to be remembered for! ;)

[kallegra]

Thanks Jennifer!

[mbamissionjenK]

You are welcome! Excited for you, keep us posted!