Profile Evaluation

[northerncard]

Hi,

I just took the GMAT and was wondering if I could get some feedback on my profile:

- GMAT: 700 (46Q/40V) - second try, first was a 690
- GPA: 3.6 from a service academy (B.S. engineering); and a 3.8 from an ivy (M.S. in operations research)
- Work Experience: 10 years in the Air Force - will be 35 at matriculation (I had a 10 year commitment).
I flew heavy aircraft for 4 years, then transitioned to unmanned aircraft, where I was a test pilot for 3 years and an operational pilot for another 3. Standard military leadership positions.
- Extracurriculars: Played football in college for a year, avid runner (half marathons), part of a flying club, and I've done some things to help military families (set up holidays parties, etc)

I'm hoping to use an MBA to transition to civilian life and hopefully prepare me for work in the non-profit sector - I'd like to work for an org that helps vets.

Targeting: Duke, Virginia, and Cornell
Stretch: Berkeley, Yale
Safe: UNC

Do I have a chance at these schools?

Thanks!

[mbamissionjenK]

Hi there,

Thanks for posting, and side note--thanks for your service! ;)

Ok, so generally when coming from a military background, a few key points I like to remind applicants include:

-spend some time really brainstorming about the skills you've gained during your military time, specifically leadership, teamwork, people & project management skills

-also brainstorm specific examples of how you've developed and used those skills, to be ready to tell stories and anecdotes demonstrating those experiences and skills

-If you are able to do the 2 points above, military experience is appreciated and generally you DO have a lot of skills that would translate to management.

-You also want to ensure that you show that you've done some research, and that you know what you are getting into with the MBA, and that it's not just something you have chosen for lack of other alternatives. You want to show that you've put some thought into your next career steps, and that you KNOW you do NEED this degree and how it will help you!

If you are successful on the above, I think you'd have a shot potentially, though yes UNC is likely the best shot, but you can apply to a few more (ranked higher as you've listed) in addition and see. The other challenge you could face is your age, as you are quite a bit older than most applicants, so again your challenge is really making a case that you do need this degree to move to your next career plans.

Keep us posted on questions & your progress, and good luck!