Extenuating circumstances for early MBA admissions (ex. HBS 2+2)?
For the past two years my mother has been battling an aggressive form of cervical cancer (late stage). It's really put a significant strain on her, myself and my family (i.e. severe mental strain, financial constraints from medical bills, academics, livelihood). I fear about the future, but I'm trying to stay hopeful for everyone.
I would love a critique of my candidacy for a deferred MBA. I plan on apply to Harvard Business School (2+2) and Stanford GSB. Applying for R3 in April.
I'm hoping to leverage the MBA experience into a future career as a film exec. (don't know in what sort of capacity) and I believe having a business foundation would be helpful. I think my path is non-traditional, I'm not a banker or consultant so...
Work
Focused on a few amateur film projects and theater production with students early in college. Interned at Google my Junior Summer (FT offer but declined as I disliked the role and wanted to be closer to my family post-graduation).
Side Projects
Heavily involved in college productions.
Won major awards for fictional writing and essay contests (national recognition)
Lots of Activism and Leadership
Haven't settled on post-graduation stuff. I'm trying to live near my mother. But, I've secured employment at a few independent/indie film production companies and could likely extend my work for the publication company I'm freelancing for (it's not a paid gig, fyi)
bump. Nothing?
Hey there, Good to hear from you! You have an interesting project there, and a very unique goal. Now I'll be honest with you, with a 2.7, and without some very strong internships behind you, your chances are going to be very low in getting into these programs. the 740 is awesome, but you won't be able to slide in on GMAT alone. (BTW no need for you to even think about retaking the GMAT, your GMAT is awesome).
The other thought I have is that given what you really want to get into (New Media) are you sure an MBA is what you want/need? What about applying for a Media/Film/etc. program in one of the very strong media schools (UCLA, USC, Austin, NYU, etc.)? In that industry its a lot more about who you know in industry than an MBA (which very few people will have or need, unless you are getting into the corporate finance side of things).
I mean, ultimately, f you would like to give it a shot, it's just two application fees, so why not? But You also may want to take the time to consider if that's really what you need.
Best, Jon
Hi,
My creative portfolio isn't strong enough for film school, right now. I also feel like and MBA is a more strategic decision for me. So, my work at Google and Allure/Vogue wouldn't be enough experience? I understand many MBB and Finance applicants apply to 2+2 but I don't necessarily think my internships weren't that strong. Getting my Google role was more competitive than any of the traditional firms I applied to. So, a possible GMAT boost wouldn't do the trick? Any thing else from anyone?
Should I write about the cancer and other personal issues if it ties to my reason for applying for the MBA (which it does).
./.................
Sorry to hear about your struggles, I hope everything works our for you. Sounds like your application will be a little weak for early admission. The GPA will really hurt you, even with extenuating circumstances and strength across the board in other areas. There's no harm in applying, but I wouldn't get your hopes up. With that being said you have a chance at at Top B school a few years down the road if you stay the course.
I know a handful of people who have gotten in, and to be frank--your chances seem extremely low with a 2.7 from not a top 5 school right off the bat. You have a good GMAT and being a URM is helpful, but those are just two pieces to the puzzle. R3 is also the most competitive. While what's happening with your mother is unfortunate and I hope everything gets better, I don't think it will make up for the other things in your profile. Also, it sounds like you don't really have much direction with what you plan to do with it--and that's going to be SUPER important in the essays. That being said, I think in 3-5 years (with decent/good work exp) you'd be competitive for Top 10-15 + some M7 programs being a female URM with a high GMAT is like finding a four leaf clover.
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