Mr. Neurotech

Let’s start with what is really obvious: Your GPA is low for HBS, while your GMAT score is right on HBS’ class median. Your MS from Georgetown will help offset the fact that you did your undergrad at a state school that is not a public Ivy. But for the sake of everyone else who reads our commentaries, I want to quote from a recent HBS student who managed to get through the admissions gauntlet and nicely sums up the reality of getting an admit from Harvard: “There will be people with higher test scores or GPAs. There will be people with more ‘prestigious’ or ‘better’ work experience. HBS is not trying to fill the classroom with all 4.0 Ivy League GPAs and 800 GMAT scores. HBS is trying to create a vibrant, diverse classroom filled with students who are passionate about making a difference. Therefore, your essay (and the rest of your application/interview) should not be a list of your accomplishments. It should be the story of you. Who you are and what you care about. What valuable perspectives can you bring to HBS that other people can’t.” That said, I like what you have accomplished and I have to think you’re a strong writer given the fact that you have a book to your credit. So I’m betting on you. Good luck.

Hi Mr. Neurotech! This is JP, Senior Consultant at The MBA Exchange. I can relate to your background both personally and as consultant to similar applicants over the last fifteen years. I rate your chances at a whopping 50% because people like you can make things happen, especially when provided with the right information to make sound decisions. If you approach your campaign with humility, drive and have the right consultant in your corner, I believe that you can craft an application that will truly stand out. I’d be happy to tell you more, just reach out to us via The MBA Exchange website and ask to be put in touch with ‘JP’, stating that you posted your profile here.

Hello Mr. Neurotech! Thanks for posting. Krista Nannery from mbaMission here. LOVE your double-major in Neuroscience and Econ! What a great combo.

I think I am missing some data here…I see that you are 27 and have 5 years of work experience, but then the WE information I have only shows 3 years of experience and one of those years is as a founder. You also mention financial services but it seems to be more in a tech/product role y so it’s a little hard in this (admittedly one-dimensional) review to gauge your chances. The fact that you are a founder and have raised $7 million is admirable…I’d want to know more about this! In your applications, make sure to give it as much external validation as possible…b-schools want to know that entrepreneurs are successful, so you’ll need to make sure you can really prove your work here.

So here’s the thing — I think you are really unique. That makes it hard to compare you to others and help you understand your chances. You’re probably the type of person who should schedule a consultation to talk more in detail.

Because you are so unique, please focus your apps in R1 so you can get their attention. Also, if healthcare is really where you want to be, please check out the Wharton Healthcare Management program and talk to a few students in the program currently to understand the expected application process.

I hope that helps a bit…
Krista

Hi, it’s Jennifer Jackson from Stratus Admissions. Your strong GMAT helps outweigh the lower GPA from a non-top school, as does the fact that you had a double major in neuroscience and econ! What I think will really set you apart is your experience in fintech, founding a startup and writing a book. I’d like to learn more about what you’ve done as an engaged public citizen but it’s certainly important to Harvard so be sure to highlight that, especially when there’s a pattern of involvement in something over time and/or when it’s related to what you want to do. HBS especially (and GSB) really give you an opportunity to reveal who you are through its essay so take the chance to show them who you are and where you want to go with the help of an MBA. Good luck!