Mr. Almost Olympics

Hi Mr. Almost Olympics! This is Kate Richardson, Senior Admissions Consultant. I think you’ve got a lot of strong points in your profile that Harvard (and other schools) will like. First, I think they will like your engineering background to prove your technical skills, and the well-rounded nature of your project management work. I also love that you are not just involved in activities outside work, but you are taking big leadership roles in those activities. Your athletics career will be a big selling point, especially considering the international exposure that came with it. Applying from NZ is a nice boost too, as we don’t see as many applicants from there. I think the challenges for Harvard could be GPA < their average (though coming from engineering that should be less of a concern) and coming from a less typical pre-MBA industry (though this can be a positive too). I also wonder if you've been promoted or whether that's possible before you apply, as that could help. All in all, Harvard is tough but I think if you execute a strong application, you've got a strong shot there.

Hi Mr. Almost Olympics, this is Donna Bauman with Stratus Admissions and you had me at New Zealand. My daughter was doing her study abroad there this semester and having the time of her life until Covid changed her plans. I am even more determined to visit this beautiful country one day! When I look at your profile for HBS, I see the potential to present well as I see some strong leadership already—and HBS is not looking to make you a leader but rather to educate people who already leaders to help them make a difference in the world. I see that potential in you even from this brief intro—of course—seeing the potential and getting in are 2 different things but I think you have a good start and a good consultant can help you bring your strongest HBS side out. I’d like to know more about what kind of purpose driven organization is interesting to you—and for that matter what has driven that interest. I also would want to know more about the lessons from sport and how they have helped you in your professional roles. There is no short cut to doing this work—and I see the same potential for you at Kellogg and Yale and INSEAD and Said. I like the duality of your engineering and your sporting pursuits in college and your construction management experience will add some diversity to any class. GSB is tough for anyone—but to the extent that you give some insight into what has informed your goals your odds will increase. I’d love to talk to you further to help you put your best foot forward in the MBA application process. Please reach out for a consult if you would like to talk further!