Mr. 911 System

Hi there! It’s Stephanie Horn, Master Consultant with the MBA Exchange and recent Poets and Quants “Top 10 Admissions Consultants”. What I like about your profile is that you have solid work experience and a clear, achievable post-MBA goal. While your GPA is below the middle 80% range for Duke, and they may not consider your undergraduate institution as highly selective as the schools of your competitors, you offset that by a strong GMAT score. You need a strong quant percentile — 75% or better. If it is not that strong, then I recommend retaking the GMAT. It will be very important that your essays demonstrate the breadth of your experience as Senior Regional Project Manager. I would want to hear how you’ve set stretch goals for your region, built and mentored your team, handled unexpected obstacles, and demonstrated your leadership skills. I think Duke is a great choice as it is strong in both healthcare and consulting, and I recommend that you explore UNC, Emory, and one of my favorite schools, UT Austin.

Hi, Mr. 911 System, Julie-Anne Heafey here from mbaMission. Your 911 project sounds fascinating, and I’m curious about the hurdles you faced and how you made an impact there. Your story and goals are coherent and compelling and you’ve been thoughtful about your target schools– that generally will help you in the process. I think your GMAT looks a touch low, but not super far off, though if you can manage a retake, it’s probably worth a try to offset further your low GPA. Generally any GPA below a 3.2 increases the risk factor for top schools –it’s not impossible to break through, but because of the uncertainty of your candidacy, it’s wise to apply to multiple programs, so I like seeing some other names on your list. Another thing you can do, if there’s context about the GPA worth explaining (an illness, an emergency, a work commitment, a particular struggle that took effort to overcome), is to offer a straightforward explanation (not excuses) in the optional essay. Also, sometimes client supplement their applications with coursework from online classes or local colleges, ideally with A’s, to provide evidence of more recent solid academic performance and to show your readiness for the program. I wish you the best of luck!!

Mr. 911 System – Susan Cera, Director of MBA Admissions, here. Since I spent 10 years evaluating applicants for Duke Fuqua, I know that there are elements of your profile that they will love but others that will be difficult for them to look past. Your work experience and goals clearly align with what Fuqua has to offer through the HSM program. I encourage you to connect with current students to really dig into the resources so you can showcase your alignment with the ethos of Fuqua and what contributions you see yourself making through your application and interview.
Based on your undergrad GPA (which is water under the bridge) and your GMAT, there may be concern about your ability to handle the rigor of a top MBA program. I suggest that you take a formal math class in which you will get an official transcript to
demontrate that you are a different student today than you were in college. Although your 690 is just below the class average, Fuqua has been less forgiving on test scores this year and has been waitlisting very heavily. If Fuqua truly is your top choice, I encourage you to apply in the binding EA round and really show your love for the school! A few other programs you might consider that have strength in healthcare – Vanderbilt Owen and WashU Olin.
All the best!