Competitive for Columbia (ED)?

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Competitive for Columbia (ED)?

by surfergreg6 » Sun Jul 27, 2008 2:07 pm
Hi Stacy and All,

I've decided that Columbia would be my top choice for an MBA and plan on applying "early decision", but I'm still concerned about my chances. I was wondering if you could tell me if I would be competitive.

background:
Ivy League - computer science.

-4 years work experience (including one year working on my own startup)
-Started 3 companies, one non profit while in school that merged w/ another non profit startup. 1 part time during work that failed and a third that's actually doing decent at the moment
-710 gmat Q46, V40

My concern is that my undergrade gpa was low ~ 2.7-2.8 range. I worked in financial programming at a hedge fund and my work experience there was great and math heavy. My old managers/directors offered to write recommendations when I left because they were pleased with my work.

Since I'm applying this year I don't have an alternative transcript and I'm concerned that my gmat might be too low to compensate for the low gpa.

Should I take the GMAT again or just focus on my essay? Do i have a shot? :?

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by Lisa Anderson » Mon Jul 28, 2008 6:26 am
Dear surfergreg6,

Whether or not to apply this year depends on your risk tolerance. If I were you, I would apply this year. Because of your low GPA, your essays and resume become more critical. I think you have interesting work experience that you can leverage to your advantage. It is also important for you to visit Columbia and establish a personal connection with the admission office. I would suggest visiting between now and mid-September so you can incorporate what you learn on your visit into your essay answers. Think positively and put in the time for a strong application--you have a shot!

Best of luck,
Lisa
Lisa Anderson
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Stacy Blackman Consulting

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