Ms. Bulge Bracket

Hi, Ms. Bulge Bracket, this is Julie-Anne Heafey with mbaMission. You seem like a highly focused Type-A achiever, so I’m not surprised you’ve set your sights on the most elite and difficult-to-get-into schools in the US. That said, you have some homework to do before you apply: figure out your goals. These MBA programs are short, intense, expensive professional programs and while you certainly can explore more once you get there, you need at least to pick a starting direction, or they will think you are not yet ready to apply. Luckily the Stanford app will likely force you into this: what matters to you, and why? How has that played out in your life, and how will it get you where you’re going? Also – Stanford looks for leadership and those who make a mark on their organizations, so make sure to demonstrate your impact at your current job. The promotion will help for this, but really make clear what GOT you that promotion on your resume. I’d also see about retaking your GMAT if you can – or switching to the GRE. Best of luck!!

Hello Ms. Bulge Bracket, it’s Lisa Cummings of Stratus Admissions. I also worked in institutional equity sales right out of college pre-MBA. Its’ a great training ground for many post -MBA positions. In addition, you are coming from a great demographic for US business schools. It looks like you have solid professional experience, your early promotion will help you stand out, especially since your years of experience are a bit light for GSB and other top schools. I like your First Class degree, do you think you have peaked with your 700 GMAT score? If at all possible, it would be ideal if you could bump that up a little to be more competitive in the GSB pool, perhaps through some targeted self study or tutoring. Perhaps you are waiting until the test is once again offered in person instead of taking it on line. I’d like to know more about your career and the impact you have had at work. What kinds of projects have you been involved in? Do you have your own book of business or do you share it with a senior salesperson? From your blurb we know a little about what you like to do, what activities or communities are you involved in outside of work? Finally, you will need to make a connection for the committees to understand your interest in making a pivot from sales into fashion as there is nothing in the (admittedly short) blurb that would lead me there. What is the driver and do you have any experience in that field? Given your interest in fashion, have you considered NYU Stern? They are one of very few US schools that offers that as a focus. You say you want to study in the US but several European schools including BBS in Italy and CNAM in France offer an MBA with a fashion focus. Best of luck and stay healthy during these crazy times.