@[398529:dushyantcfa]

@mba-help said: @dushyantcfa Hi Dushyant, This response has been written by Sachin (co-founder of MBA Decoder), an LBS alum: If you are very sure that finance sector is your area of interest and career pursuit, then go for it. All companies recruiting in finance/ financial services coming to campus invite applications from both MBA and MiF programs. However, if you do an MBA, you get an internship opportunity which many people use to make a transition to another industry/area. For instance people working into industry wanting to move into consulting would typically do an internship with a consulting company. This gives them a first hand experience of what it is really about and also improves there chances of getting an offer either from the same firm or another... as they are able to better demonstrate a fit.In your case, you already seem to be working in corporate finance, so a transition into financial services should not be that difficult in my opinion unless you want to do something drastically different in terms of a role. That would be my take.Post qualification growth prospects will be largely performance driven. Employers, business community and larger alumni community does not differentiate between various programs of LBS. An LBS alum is an LBS alum. Namitawww.mbadecoder.com

@home11alone said:Hi I am trying to compare an mba in India( IIMs(A,B,C,L,K,I), FMS, XLRI), with an Masters in Management/Finance in Europe (HEC Paris,ESCP and other top ten schools according to FT rankings). My background is as follows: GMAT: 750 Last year CAT: 99.43 GPA : 7.43(absolute grading), from IIT-BHU work ex: 1 month as of now, working for a company serving financial giants for middle and back office work.

Hie ,

Hi consultants,

@sansd said:Hi, I am stranded at this point in my life and would require some serious help, my profile is as follows; Working as HVAC Engineer in Kuwait GMAT - 610 CGPA - 6.6/10 in Mech. Eng. from BITS Dubai School - X - 82% XII - 82% EC's - Have been an integral part of sports and cultural organizing committees throughout, in my office have been a part of the cricket team and played in 2 intra-company football tournaments. Now my problems start, I was shortlisted from 2 b-schools in India but got rejected after the interview - XLRI and IIT bombay. Before I wanted to attend a b-school in India coz of the fee factor but now i am open to all. So, according to my profile can some one please suggest me the names of the colleges in India and abroad, where i really stand a chance of getting through, considering the fact of placements as the economies in the west are currently not well placed. I know my gmat score is really low but due to the work pressure and timings, I doubt I can give it again this year, which makes me have the same score for the applications in India next year. Please someone help me as there are no consultants here and that makes me handicapped for advice and proper guidance.

Hi Sansd,

Would you consider doing a part time MBA/ executive MBA from a b-school in UAE?

Why this would make sense for you:

1. your GMAT scores will be a better match for the average class scores there.

2. Classes will be held during weekend so you can continue working and just fly down to Dubai (for most of the programs)

3. If you plan to continue working in MENA, it will help to study in the region. Besides these programs are well recognized in the region.

Your GMAT scores are quite low for most Indian b-schools. Compound that with very average GPA - and the combination will begin to place restrictions on your choice of b-schools. From this perspective what I have suggested above will make more sense.

Namita

www.mbadecoder.com

@Recaptcha said: Hi Namita!! Thanks for the info. I am planning to start my session at IIT and will be applying to b schools abroad simultaneously for 2013-15 session. So obviously I can show this as a personal development for the time being. With regards to experience I have been employed for 18 months and have resigned from job just a few weeks back. However, one thing I am worried about is whether the adcom will see my leaving one institute for the other in a positive light? Thanks

Hi,

My Profile:

Hi frnd..my acads in 10th are 75%,in 12th 55%, & 74% in grad...if i will get 99%ile in cat 2012...will i get a col frm any of the IIM?

Dear Consultants,

Need your help. My profile:

Acads: class X: 81% (WB Board)

Class XII: 68% (WB Board)

Grad: BSc Chemistry 57.4% (Calcutta Uni)

WE:

5 years with leading MNC in their HR/recruitment team

2 years with leading non-profit organization in their Communications/marketing team

Gmat: 630

I have offers from KJ Somaiya PGDM Executive and SP Jain Global MBA.

Pros for SP:

Industry recognition

Greater mix of students

Cons: extremely expensive course (Indian standards)

Average years of WE is 3 years only while mine is 7+

Pros of KJSomaiya:

Much cheaper course

AICTE approved

Lesser batch strength hence more attention

Average years of experience close to mine

Cons:

New course

Placements for 1^st batch yet to happen

Not much info available about the course

Please advise if its suitable for me to take up either of these.

Or if I choose to apply to the grade A b schools – ISB, IIMs – what would be my chance?

Thanks in advance and awaiting a quick response!

Expert Consultants,

Hi,

There are many options available overseas. first i would like to tell you the
Pros :
1. There economy is still better than ours. You must have gone through newspaper that the rupee is breaking in front of dollar.
2. European B-School are more diverse than Indian B-Schools because everything is balance over there. If you join European B-School you will be exposed to real learning.
3.Faculty and placements- There are viable options of getting hired by the top notch companies. The faculty over there is too good.

Now lets take a look at cons-
1. You need to have a lot of money to take admissions in these blue chip institutions .
2.Many B-School won't be considering you because you don't have any work experience.
3. Life outside country is not too easy as there is some kind of discrimination on the basis of race,language,etc.

Hope it helps for any mode advice message me.

Hi

@mba-help said: Hi, Generally leaving a job and spending the extra time ideally is seen negatively by business schools. So if in case you do decide to apply to programs outside India, be ready to explain how you are still developing yourself in this free time - either personally or professionally. Regarding the decision to attend/ apply - you can best solve this yourself. Ask yourself some questions: What do you want to do after the MBA? How will the IIT degree help you get there? What are the program features that will be beneficial for you? Where do you want to be after MBA (location/ industry) - will a foreign MBA help you more? Would the added cost of a foreign MBA be worth it - will it catapult you to a position that the IIT MBA will not? Another point to note - most MBA programs outside India prefer two years of work experience. You have not mentioned how much experience you have, but this could be an item to cross on the checklist. Namitawww.mbadecoder.com

@Psychodementia said: @mbajamesbond Nice nick Quick answer: any school where the average GMAT is about 50-points lower than yours - you have a good chance of both admission and scholarship.Long Answer: Not really since the admissions committee looks at various factors before giving you the admission + scholarship. If they find something in your profile they really like they might end up giving you a scholarship irrespective of your GMAT scores. Here is an example of someone with a GMAT score of 660 but got in with a 2/3rd tuition waiver (huge!) at Krannert (ranked high albeit in the mid-tier):www.crackverbal.com/success-sp...Arun

@[563226:mbajamesbond] Nice nick :mg:

Hi at a score of 650 in gmat..What university i should be targeting in usa..

I need scholarship of more than 50%

Hi Friends,
I am new to this community.
I am in final year student doing BE(Mumbai University).I want to pursue MBA from USA.
The problem is that my academic record in Engg is quit dull(aggregate 55%).So I dont think i would be place in any good Company.As i wont be having any Experience foreign university's wont be accepting me.So I am planning to give CMAT next year.Will the preparation of CMAT in any way help me in preparing GMAT,if I wish to give it in future?

Suggestions are Welcome

@Recaptcha said: Hello all, After going through the entire blog, I felt compelled enough to put forward my case. I have graduated from NIT with a CGP of 8.55 in 2010 and was then employed with an automobile MNC in their RnD wing. However, after seeing the technical side of things was interested to shift to the commercial/ management side of things. Hence, appeared for CAT and managed to get a seat at one of the IITs for pursuing MBA 2012-14 batch. Consequently, I have resigned from my job and waiting for the classes to begin. But, I strongly believe that this might not be the very best of opportunities and so planning to apply for some good US B schools right this year for 2013-15 session. I gave GMAT last week and scored 750 (had prepared for cat). I doubt if there had been any such cases of students leaving a school midway for some better school. Furthermore, I have already left my job so might be a couple of months before I can bag another one â‚Źâ€œ this in case u advise to leave IIT this year and work before applying. Any inputs in this regard will be appreciated. Thanks.

Generally leaving a job and spending the extra time ideally is seen negatively by business schools. So if in case you do decide to apply to programs outside India, be ready to explain how you are still developing yourself in this free time - either personally or professionally.

Regarding the decision to attend/ apply - you can best solve this yourself. Ask yourself some questions: What do you want to do after the MBA? How will the IIT degree help you get there? What are the program features that will be beneficial for you? Where do you want to be after MBA (location/ industry) - will a foreign MBA help you more? Would the added cost of a foreign MBA be worth it - will it catapult you to a position that the IIT MBA will not?

Another point to note - most MBA programs outside India prefer two years of work experience. You have not mentioned how much experience you have, but this could be an item to cross on the checklist.

Namita

www.mbadecoder.com

@[398529:dushyantcfa]

@dushyantcfa said:Hello Consultants, Query about Master of Finance from LBS. This being a short term course of 10 months appx, does it make significant impact on career growth?? Moreover student profiles of current class reveals that only 10% of class was from industry (i.e. ppl apart from financial services n consulting), I am a Chartered Accountant working with a big PSU, independently handling finance/accounts of a large project site, about 4 years of work ex ; Will it make sense, pursuing MF, if i wish to make transition into financial service industry??? also, are recruiters (on campus) regular for this course?? can you compare post qualification career growth w.r.t MBA? Other insight will be valuable. reg, dushyant

Hi Dushyant,

This response has been written by Sachin (co-founder of MBA Decoder), an LBS alum:

If you are very sure that finance sector is your area of interest and career pursuit, then go for it. All companies recruiting in finance/ financial services coming to campus invite applications from both MBA and MiF programs.

However, if you do an MBA, you get an internship opportunity which many people use to make a transition to another industry/area. For instance people working into industry wanting to move into consulting would typically do an internship with a consulting company. This gives them a first hand experience of what it is really about and also improves there chances of getting an offer either from the same firm or another... as they are able to better demonstrate a fit.

In your case, you already seem to be working in corporate finance, so a transition into financial services should not be that difficult in my opinion unless you want to do something drastically different in terms of a role. That would be my take.

Post qualification growth prospects will be largely performance driven. Employers, business community and larger alumni community does not differentiate between various programs of LBS. An LBS alum is an LBS alum.

Namita

www.mbadecoder.com

Hi frnd..my acads in 10th are 75%,in 12th 55%, & 74% in grad...if i will get 99%ile in cat 2012...will i get a col frm any of the IIM?
@Neo2000

Hello Consultants,

Query about Master of Finance from LBS. This being a short term course of 10 months appx, does it make significant impact on career growth?? Moreover student profiles of current class reveals that only 10% of class was from industry (i.e. ppl apart from financial services n consulting), I am a Chartered Accountant working with a big PSU, independently handling finance/accounts of a large project site, about 4 years of work ex ; Will it make sense, pursuing MF, if i wish to make transition into financial service industry??? also, are recruiters (on campus) regular for this course?? can you compare post qualification career growth w.r.t MBA?
Other insight will be valuable.

reg,
dushyant

Excellent mix of roles and responsibilities, Ravs. Good work!

Are you sure that the lack of preparation was the real reason? Or was it the difficulty in understanding the essential concepts?



But Asia and Canada have fewer bschool choices than the US. For your experience level, you could check out American schools too.

- Sameer Kamat
Founder | MBA Crystal Ball

Hi MartianonEarth,

Thanks for answering the queries.

I want to know about some colleges in Asia which provide 1 year Mba in Operations. If you can help.

Regards,
Ravs

Thanks again Namita. I indeed feel strongly for the cause of education for underprivileged. However, post mba, i would like to pursue a corporate role (to pay off the gigantic debt!) and not a role with an NGO. So i am falling short of ideas to weave community involvement into my long term career goals to make a consistent application.

For the biking part, there could be a few examples of teamwork (and leadership) i can use from the trip. Thanks for the hint ;)

I would think of it as a big mistake if you try to force fit your NGO experience into your career goals. Your extra mural activities showcase another facet of your personality. You are engaging in them because you care to make a difference outside the circumference of your work. You may continue to do these when you have a corporate role, but you may not want to do them fulltime. This is alright, so don't mix the two stories up, else it will dilute the effect of both.
One way to make the NGO experience relevant is by talking about your commitment to the Net Impact Chapter/ other volunteering activities of the b-schools you apply to. Most schools ask the question- how will you contribute to the community of.....this is where your experience can fit in.

Namita, MBA Decoder

Funemployed,

I did indeed forget to talk about your community service, which seems quite long term and therefore very believable. However, I think you should talk about it in the essays if you feel strongly about the work you have done, not because it will look good to present to the adcom.

Thanks again Namita. I indeed feel strongly for the cause of education for underprivileged. However, post mba, i would like to pursue a corporate role (to pay off the gigantic debt!) and not a role with an NGO. So i am falling short of ideas to weave community involvement into my long term career goals to make a consistent application.

For the biking part, there could be a few examples of teamwork (and leadership) i can use from the trip. Thanks for the hint

Hi,
I am an engineer working in SAP ERP since 2.5 years.
Have done my BE Computers with 61% (agg) from Mumbai University

10th:-82.93
12th:-82.33

Planning to give my gmat....Want to do MBA in Operations.

Please suggest me a list of colleges you think i can be elligible in... planning for 2013 fall.

Hi,

Here's a list:
Best Production Operations Programs Top Business Schools US News Best Graduate Schools

Start your search by looking at the websites of these b-schools.

Namita, MBA Decoder

Thank you Namita.

While answering my query, you did not consider the community service aspect of my profile. However, I feel a strong urge to highlight the community work in my essays as it is something seen in very good light by adcoms.

Funemployed,

I did indeed forget to talk about your community service, which seems quite long term and therefore very believable. However, I think you should talk about it in the essays if you feel strongly about the work you have done, not because it will look good to present to the adcom.

I was trulty impressed about the biking to Ladakh- having seen the tough terrain myself (there may be a possibility that we crossed paths ;)).
You must include the biking experience in your application as well. B-schools like Wharton have a program called Leadership Venture - groups of students go to difficult terrains to perform an activity, like a mountaineering trip to Mt. Kilimanjaro. The idea is for you to test/ enhance your leadership and team building skills under difficult circumstances. Do you have any such instances during the biking trip to Ladakh where your resistance/ leadership skills were tested? It could be part of your essay stories.

Namita, MBA Decoder

Hi,
I am an engineer working in SAP ERP since 2.5 years.
Have done my BE Computers with 61% (agg) from Mumbai University

10th:-82.93
12th:-82.33

Planning to give my gmat....Want to do MBA in Operations.

Please suggest me a list of colleges you think i can be elligible in... planning for 2013 fall.

Another part of the question (even though you haven't articulated it explicitly) is - whether the story of moving from Analytics to strategy consulting makes sense...... will differentiate you from the rest who may be writing some wishful thinking, whereas you will be talking the industry language.

Thank you Namita. I went through the IBM website and found some really interesting stuff. This could be a good starting point for my application essays. I think I should focus on blending analytics with consulting to shape a distinctive (yet achievable) career path.

While answering my query, you did not consider the community service aspect of my profile. However, I feel a strong urge to highlight the community work in my essays as it is something seen in very good light by adcoms.

Should I give substantial weightage to the community work in my essays only if it blends with my career goals or can i use atleast one essay to showcase my altruistic side even if it is not directly aligned with my career aspirations?

Thanks again for your advice

Hi Sameer and Namita,

I need you help to evaluate my profile and advise me on my target schools.

2.8 years of experience (3.8 years at matriculation) working for an analytics based consultancy in pharma space (could be considered a KPO). Highest rating in all my appraisals and involved in many initiatives with high visibility. Can get good reco from my manager and ex-manager.
Gmat 770 AW 5 IR 8

Post-MBA Goal: I would like to move over to strategic consultancy from analytics.

It is not about the consistency between work-ex and target schools, rather the consistency between your work-ex and goals post MBA - that is important. Your application needs to bring out a logical and well thought out and well researched linkage between 1) what you are doing right now 2) what you want to do post MBA and 3) how an MBA from 'that' school will strengthen your capabilities to enable you to do 2).

The target schools you mentioned are all top tier schools with strong abilities in Strategic Consulting. So, you won't go wrong with them.

Another part of the question (even though you haven't articulated it explicitly) is - whether the story of moving from Analytics to strategy consulting makes sense. I believe so, given the fact that with increasing information overload, most organizations are relying on sophisticated analytics as a basis for strategic decision making. I suggest you look at IBM's website and read through their latest thought leadership in this area, one of which is IBM CMO (Chief Marketing Officer) study. It is being suggested that in next few years CMOs will spend more on Analytics than CIOs, who have been the traditional IT buyers.
My point is, that well researched and fact supported goals in your application will differentiate you from the rest who may be writing some wishful thinking, whereas you will be talking the industry language.

I am targeting Chicago Booth, Duke Fuqua, NYU Stern and INSEAD. Could you let me if my work-ex would be consistent with my target schools. Also, what could be the other schools in US that I could target. Also should I try to lookout for a better job (with a better brand name) to increase my chances of getting into better schools?

It is less about the company name and more about the role that you are in and the growth is able to demonstrate that matters in an application. Focus on your roles and responsibilities and growth opportunities.

Namita at MBA Decoder

Hi Namita,


I wanted your opinion as to which are the colleges to which firms like BCG, Bain& Company, Booz etc visit regularly without fail. Most of the top 20 B-Schools list BCG as one of its recruiters but definitely from BCG point of view there would be few must visits and few optionals.

Well, it is definitely the top 15- 20 US b-schools as you have rightly pointed out, the sure shots being HBS, Wharton, Stanford, Kellogg, Duke, Columbia, Darden and Tuck (look at the BW rankings career data) Add INSEAD and LBS in Europe.


GMAT Scores:

I agree my GMAT Score is below the median scores. On the same note I am about 10-20 points short and kind of hoping that other parts of my profile make it up for this. I am not sure how this will pan out but at this moment i do not want to shift my focus back to exam prep.

If you are targeting the schools listed above, then any kind of advantage will make a difference, including 10- 20 extra points on GMAT. But the requirement for an otherwise spectacular application would still remain unchanged

Schools:
how suited is my profile for ISB, NTU or Rotterdam ?
Indian IT Male is a tough pool any day but then the prohibitive cost and aura of top schools make most applicant shy away. And moreover it is a chance that I am taking. If I lose no hard feelings.

Go ahead with this list...and put in your best.

Namita, MBA Decoder

Hello consultants,

I am pursuing bachelors of business economics from Delhi university. My graduation will end in April 2013. I am confused between doing MBA from India or msc from abroad

My profile:

Tenth- 83 percent
12th- 68 percent(PCM)
Expected in graduation- above 60 percent

Extracurricular activities-
Founded a startup last year, a marketing platform for companies Targetting students. The operations shut down this year due to dispute between cofounders
Associate member of aiesec- participation in social ventures, hosting international interns

Got 550 rank in bbs entrance examination( approximate applicants- 15000 above)

I had been a bright and creative student but screwed up since tenth. I had been diagnosed with ADHD. Till now, I wanted to startup after my graduation but now I plan to do a post graduation which gives me a job security with a minimum salary of 1 lakh per month at least. So that I can freely startup without my parents worrying up.

I am confused between cat and GMAT as there is less time in cat. Also I am not sure if my profile suits a good b school abroad. Please suggest me something. Is there someway I can improve my profile or should I stick my guns to Indian schools only. I am aiming at global sp Jain? I am good in quants, verbal and gk as my Bbs ranking shows.

ravstime Says

I have sent you a PM. Kindly check it and reply.

Responded to your PM, Ravneet-ji.

Would you not agree that Fees in Asian & Canadian colleges is less and returns more, not only in terms of high probability of landing in a job but also in having a good ROI?

I'd agree with the 'fees less' part. The 'returns more' is open to debate.

The probability of landing a job is dependent on many other factors. State of the economy is a prime factor. There are others such as your pre-MBA skills, strength of the MBA brand, your post-MBA plans, your networking skills, and luck.

- How to make lady luck smile?

Hi Sameer and Namita,

I need you help to evaluate my profile and advise me on my target schools.

2.8 years of experience (3.8 years at matriculation) working for an analytics based consultancy in pharma space (could be considered a KPO). Highest rating in all my appraisals and involved in many initiatives with high visibility. Can get good reco from my manager and ex-manager.
Gmat 770 AW 5 IR 8
Integrated B.Tech & M.Tech from IIT in Mechanical Engg. (8.1/10)
Extra-curricular Nothing much here. Biking (have gone to Ladakh on bike) photography and dramatics (in college)
Community work - involved with the philanthropy wing of the organization for 2.8 years; 5 months of full-time experience in NGO teaching underprivileged children.

Post-MBA Goal: I would like to move over to strategic consultancy from analytics.

I am targeting Chicago Booth, Duke Fuqua, NYU Stern and INSEAD. Could you let me if my work-ex would be consistent with my target schools. Also, what could be the other schools in US that I could target. Also should I try to lookout for a better job (with a better brand name) to increase my chances of getting into better schools?

Hi Neo,

I have a GMAT score of 730 with good academics, an energy engineer from NIT Bhopal, 1 year experience in a manufacturing PSU, community service and other extracuricular activities. I am aiming for MBA schools in or outside india which accept GMAT score and experience of or less than 2 years. I got an admit from Rotterdam institute of management, Erasmus University, NL. Is it really worth it to go there for a masters in general management, which is a pre-experience course? Should I wait and consider institutes lke SP Jain Dubai (2012 batch) for a Global masters in business (also a pre-exp. masters which started an year back) or ISB Hyderabad for 2013 session?

Which other schools do you consider worth applying to esp. in India, US or Australia? Placements and reputation of the school are my priorities.

Hi Namita,

Thanks for your response. I am open to feedback from any consultant in this forum. :)

Goals:
What I meant is I have an open mind with respect to domain of consulting. Being from a technology background it would be difficult to convince employers that i could excel in general or financial consulting. So my aim (post-MBA) was to join a consulting firm and gradually move towards general (business) or financial consulting.
By all means 'also fine' will not be part of my essays.
I wanted your opinion as to which are the colleges to which firms like BCG, Bain& Company, Booz etc visit regularly without fail. Most of the top 20 B-Schools list BCG as one of its recruiters but definitely from BCG point of view there would be few must visits and few optionals.

WE post graduation:
For close to 2 years I have been working in the Business Intelligence domain. The interesting part is, my job requires me to have a good understanding of the business in order to develop business reports for Mid and senior level executives. I am intending to use this as a differentiator in my app.

GMAT Scores:
I agree my GMAT Score is below the median scores. On the same note I am about 10-20 points short and kind of hoping that other parts of my profile make it up for this. I am not sure how this will pan out but at this moment i do not want to shift my focus back to exam prep.

Schools:
how suited is my profile for ISB, NTU or Rotterdam ?
Indian IT Male is a tough pool any day but then the prohibitive cost and aura of top schools make most applicant shy away. And moreover it is a chance that I am taking. If I lose no hard feelings.

Hi Sameer,

I would like to have your advice on my chances at some the best Colleges such as Stanford, Wharton, INSEAD, ISB and NTU. Please suggest any other college i could target.

Focus: Strategy and Business consulting. Am also fine with Technology consulting to begin with but I want to diversify my options going forward.

WE: 1yr 11 months as on date with Business Intelligence team of Infosys.

Intl WE: Completed a consultancy internship in Spain for Multimedia products company in Spain for 3 months. The impact is the Company shortened its time to Indian market and is already operating here.

GMAT: 680/800 and 5.5/6
Engg: 8.2/10
12th: 82.22%
10th:92%

ECA: Have worked for an International Exchange program for 3 yrs in various capacities during graduation. Was the Chairman for India (highest position in the country) for a period of 1 yr. Represented India at global conference in Zurich. Was also invited to join the administrative think tank of Intl Exchange Program to form policies and resolve issues at Germany. As Chairman, I managed the entire operation of the organization with the help of a team of 50 volunteers. The International Board members of this Exchange Program provide consultation to various bodies of United Nations.

FrontRunner,

I thought I will give my opinion as well :)

Stanford, INSEAD and Wharton are extremely competitive b-schools and its a challenge for anybody to get in there.
Some qualities that will help you there are: leadership, intellectual capabilities, ability to take initiation and innovate, a global mindset and very focused career goals. In regards with your career goals " also fine with technology consulting" will have to change to a definite answer. "also fine" will not work in the essays.

You have not mentioned about your work experience, so its hard to comment there. But your GMAT scores are a little less for these programs, where the class average GMAT is around 710- 720. You also belong to a competitive demographic pool, so its advantageous to be on the higher side of the GMAT spectrum of a b-school.

Your experience at the International Exchange program sounds very interesting and you can definitely talk about it in the essays to 1. demonstrate your international exposure 2. to talk about a similar contribution at the b-school (if their exchange programs are student led).

Hope this helps :)

Namita, MBA Decoder

Hi Consultants,

I am having 5.6 years of IT work ex including 1 yr of assignment abroad.
While filling on the essays there are two section which needs to be filled in 200 words each.
1. Other achievements (except professional)
2. Extracurricular activities/Hobbies/Interests

Now i am getting confused what should i write in both these sections.

My achivements are : Tabala Visharad( Graduate in Classical)
Carrom champion on Company project level
I play cricket and got couple of awards like man of the match etc for college tournament.
Oraginazor of cultural fest at college level which include big Celebraties and got certificates for the same.
I have learnt karate and got black belt in it.
I am passionate about music and i remix songs and play DJ using computer softwares but that upto our fried level only. Never tried to play in parties. I love swimimg, driving n trekking etc.

Please guide me on this. Any kind of help will be appreciated.

Thanks,
Sam

Hi consultants
please refer to my profile and answer my questions
10th : 88.2(CBSE Board)
12th : 82.6(CBSE Board)
Btech( Mechnaical Engg from NIT Kurukshetra) : 8.44/10
GMAT : 710 (Q49, V35) given in may '12
Extra curricular activities : Participated and won a lot of competitions at school level, won regional level science exhibition in 11th, and represented my state at nationals. , member of various clubs at college level, active in dramatics, and anchoring, have been doing anchoring at my workplace also in yearly conclave.
Profile : Experience of 25 Months, working with Maruti Suzuki India Ltd., R & D centre , Gurgaon. Working as assistant manager in the field of homologation and testing, the work involves participating in meetings which have members from other automobile companies, ministries, govt approved vehicle testing agencies, bureau of indian standards, society of indian automobile manufacturers etc for the formulation of Indian standards, automotive industry standards...preparation for these meetings, proposals for standards, studying european standards and using that knowledge to make new indian standards for automobile testing..a car can be launched in market only after it passes a certain set of these tests mentioned in cental motor vehicles act, by indian govt.
the other dimension of work is to get the vehicles tested from govt approved testing agencies according to notified standards by the govt. this applies to newly developed models..which are to be launched in markets..
i am looking after safety standards(such as crash test and many more)
have been part of both testing and regulation formation..
i want to apply to only top 15 b schools in US + ISB + NUS for fall '13

I have some queries???
1) Is my GMAT score ok or should i give it another shot????? and do i have time for that..though i am not sure that whether i will be able to improve it by 30-40 points or not, but i can give a try...if i get similar or lower score than will it reduce the importance of my 710 score or not???? so should i attempt or not
2) Is my experience duration ok or should i wait for 1 more year.. becoz i want only top 15 schools not below that.
3) Is my profile ok and worth to get me through a good b school in fall '13?? or i need to wait??
4) i want to enter into finance after my mba, so anything specific i should keep in my mind while selecting schools and being from operations background whether my idea of getting into finance is good and whether i will reap benefits of it or not.
5) should i go for CFA??
6) what else can i do to improve my profile??
7) are my target schools ok??? or my perspective should be diffrent in choosing schools???


please help me out...

Hi Sameer,

I would like to have your advice on my chances at some the best Colleges such as Stanford, Wharton, INSEAD, ISB and NTU. Please suggest any other college i could target.

Focus: Strategy and Business consulting. Am also fine with Technology consulting to begin with but I want to diversify my options going forward.

WE: 1yr 11 months as on date with Business Intelligence team of Infosys.

Intl WE: Completed a consultancy internship in Spain for Multimedia products company in Spain for 3 months. The impact is the Company shortened its time to Indian market and is already operating here.

GMAT: 680/800 and 5.5/6
Engg: 8.2/10
12th: 82.22%
10th:92%

ECA: Have worked for an International Exchange program for 3 yrs in various capacities during graduation. Was the Chairman for India (highest position in the country) for a period of 1 yr. Represented India at global conference in Zurich. Was also invited to join the administrative think tank of Intl Exchange Program to form policies and resolve issues at Germany. As Chairman, I managed the entire operation of the organization with the help of a team of 50 volunteers. The International Board members of this Exchange Program provide consultation to various bodies of United Nations.

Hi All,

My question is :-
1.) I have been reading a lot about the economy in the US and I'm wondering if its a good idea to be at any of the above colleges ? Now I know that aiming for Top 20 would always be better than 20 to 40, but since I dont have such a great profile Im aiming at these colleges.

2.) Im specifically interested in Finance MBA leading to and 'Equity Analyst' or a Corporate Finance position. Can someone specifically provide me a list or point me towards a link which has the list of Top 30 Finance concentration MBA programs.

Hi Rohit,

I went through some of your previous posts before starting to answer this one. I realize that you have been focusing a lot on rankings. While they are good to start your b-school search, you can not entirely depend upon them.

You have a list of 20 b-schools, the next step is to visit each school's website, go through their programs and see which ones you like in terms of your specific learning needs (finance focus). If some program that you have keen interest in, does not figure in a ranking, doesn't matter, You add that into your research. All the current and known rankings have a different set of parameters, therefore the lists they generate will be different. Eventually, there are no ready made solutions and its your own list that will get you moving forward.

(As a u-turn to what I have just said: you can look at the US News Finance specialty rankings for another "list", for US based b-schools. However, let this be just your reference point).

To answer point 1-
During the school selection stage: find out which b-schools can help you get the kind of job you are seeking- go through their employment and internship reports to form your opinions.
During the MBA Program: If you utilize your time during the MBA effectively, then getting a job will be a lot easier. Stay focused, network well and look out for the right opportunities.

I had given CFA L1 in June 2011, but i did not pass and rather got band 6/10 dur to lack of preparation due to heavy office workload. I plan to give CFA L1 again later in June 2012. Can you please tell me if it would be a good idea to mention this failed attempt in my application? Pros-shows my interest in finance. Cons - i failed it.

Why don't you decide after your June 2012 results are out (will they be out before the application dates?). I would not bother putting this in the application, I am sure you would have other ways to show your interest in finance.

4.) Also do I need to give TOEFL for applying to bschools in US ? My schooling and engineering has been in English Language.

Check individual b-school requirements as they differ. You can also ask b-schools for a TOEFL waiver.

Im planning to give my GMAT on 26th August 2012, considering 1st October to be the R1 deadline for a few colleges I aim to apply for, do I have sufficient time ?

At most b-schools you can self report test scores...again talk to individual b-schools if you can submit your AWA later.

To sum up, get past the preliminary research, onto the real groundwork.

Namita at MBA Decoder

Excellent mix of roles and responsibilities, Ravs. Good work!

Are you sure that the lack of preparation was the real reason? Or was it the difficulty in understanding the essential concepts?


But Asia and Canada have fewer bschool choices than the US. For your experience level, you could check out American schools too.

- Sameer Kamat
Founder | MBA Crystal Ball

Hi Martian On Earth,

Thanks for answering the query.
I will definitely introspect more. I have sent you a PM. Kindly check it and reply.

Further, regarding getting admission in a B-school that is located in Asia or Canada, I am keeping in mind the economy of US and the fees required at most of US colleges.

Would you not agree that Fees in Asian & Canadian colleges is less and returns more, not only in terms of high probability of landing in a job but also in having a good ROI?

Regards,
Ravneet

ravstime Says

Work Exp: 4 years in Oil Industry. Handled Project Management of multi-crore Project.

Excellent mix of roles and responsibilities, Ravs. Good work!

I have interest in Finance Sector as well and tried with CFA, USA; but could not clear 1st level because of only 3 months given to its preparation.

Are you sure that the lack of preparation was the real reason? Or was it the difficulty in understanding the essential concepts?

You don't have to answer here, but it's important to think about this. An MBA will have many of the same concepts, albeit not in as much detail.

...plan to apply in the top colleges of Asia and Canada which can offer me an Mba in 1 year with dual specialization: Finance & Operations. Can you please suggest the names of the colleges suitable for my profile along with their rankings and approximate fees they charge?

NUS, NTU, INSEAD (S'pore), Ivey, Rotman, Schulich, HKUST are the reputed ones in the 2 regions. You'll find the rankings and fees on their websites.

But Asia and Canada have fewer bschool choices than the US. For your experience level, you could check out American schools too.

- Sameer Kamat
Founder | MBA Crystal Ball

Hi,
I graduated with an engineering degree in Information Tech in 2006.

I have about 5+ years experience in Market Research and am currently a team lead at a Market Research firm. Over the years I have had several roles but my primary responsibilities have revolved around data analysis, project management, business development and internal practice building efforts.

I have a score of 600 in GMAT and I will not be able to take the exam again.

In this regard I have 2 questions

1. Where can I get information on schools that are known for their MBA Marketing Programs?
2. Which schools look like a good fit based on my general profile mentioned above

Thanks in advance for your response.

-Smita

Regards,
Smita

Hi All,
I'm an aspirant for an MBA from US for fall 2013. I have been doing my research on colleges and have been convinced to follow the FT Rankings to make a judgement and I'm probably looking at colleges ranking 20 to 40 on the FT rankings. These are the colleges ranked from 20 to 40 on the FT list.

Rice University: Jones
Indiana University: Kelley
Pennsylvania State University: Smeal
University of Rochester: Simon
Texas A & M University: Mays
University of Texas at Austin: McCombs
University of North Carolina: Kenan-Flagler
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
University of Maryland: Smith
Purdue University: Krannert
Washington University: Olin
Vanderbilt University: Owen
University of Southern California: Marshall
Ohio State University: Fisher
Boston College: Carroll
University of Minnesota: Carlson
University of Washington: Foster
Georgia Institute of Technology
Wisconsin School of Business
Michigan State University: Broad
Boston University School of Management

My question is :-
1.) I have been reading a lot about the economy in the US and I'm wondering if its a good idea to be at any of the above colleges ? Now I know that aiming for Top 20 would always be better than 20 to 40, but since I dont have such a great profile Im aiming at these colleges.

2.) Im specifically interested in Finance MBA leading to and 'Equity Analyst' or a Corporate Finance position. Can someone specifically provide me a list or point me towards a link which has the list of Top 30 Finance concentration MBA programs. Im asking for this cuz i know some of the schools iv listed above are good for may be marketing or operations or SCM etc. I dont want to be targeting these schools. I actually used the FT Ranking to sort these colleges, but later realized that a few good finance programs are just not present in the FT ranking (dunno y ). For eg Freeman-Tulane is not present in FT list, whereas i hear its one of the good and generous finance mba programs in US. Now i dont want to be missing applying to these schools. So if someone could please provide me a list of top 30 finance mba programs it would be really good.


2.) Is it completely insane to aim for a placement passing out from these colleges in this tough job market/or may be later when the economy improves.

3.) I had given CFA L1 in June 2011, but i did not pass and rather got band 6/10 dur to lack of preparation due to heavy office workload. I plan to give CFA L1 again later in June 2012. Can you please tell me if it would be a good idea to mention this failed attempt in my application? Pros-shows my interest in finance. Cons - i failed it.

4.) Also do I need to give TOEFL for applying to bschools in US ? My schooling and engineering has been in English Language.

5.) Im planning to give my GMAT on 26th August 2012, considering 1st October to be the R1 deadline for a few colleges I aim to apply for, do I have sufficient time ? I read on mba.com that GMAT guys take about 20 days to report scores to schools. So does that mean that if 1st October is the R1 deadline for a college then I need to ask GMAT to report scores to the college on say 10th Sept, so that the scores reach the college by 1st Oct?

Thanks

Dear Consultants,

Please evaluate my Profile:

10th: 90%,
12th: 81%
B.E: 79.6%

ECCA: Headed 2 societies in College.Organized Tech & Cultural Fests in College.
Social Cause: Working for an NGO for last 8 months(Part time).

Work Exp: 4 years in Oil Industry. Handled Project Management of multi-crore Project. Worked at Sites during Construction phase. Did commissioning of Project and now handling Operations of a Terminal as In-charge. During my 4 years of experience, I have learnt various aspects of Project Management, Procurement, Contract Management, Vendor Development, Site Co-ordination, Liaison with Govt. Departments etc.

You can see that my Profile is most suited for Operations Management. Now, I have interest in Finance Sector as well and tried with CFA, USA; but could not clear 1st level because of only 3 months given to its preparation.

To rise up the ladder and explore diverse career opportunities, I want an MBA degree and plan to apply in the top colleges of Asia and Canada which can offer me an Mba in 1 year with dual specialization: Finance & Operations.

Can you please suggest the names of the colleges suitable for my profile along with their rankings and approximate fees they charge?

Regards,
Ravs

Dear Consultants,

My brief profile is:
B.E. (Mech) : VJTI (Mumbai University): 72%
Masters in Mechanical Engineering:Cornell University : 3.5 GPA
GMAT Score : 700 (I know I can do a bit better)
CFA Level I

Work Experience:
Intern: 9 months : PE focused in Cleantech
Analyst: 6 months : Carbon consulting
Sr Consultant : 2 years : Accounting Big 4 mostly consulting bilaterals, multilaterals, and Indian government in field of Cleantech (both energy efficiency and renewable)

Other than this, I have a couple of papers published in an international conferences and journals. Also I was the chief coordinator of my college technical festival

I want to apply to top 5 along with couple of universities in Asia and Europe. I was wondering about my chances and whether I should take the GMAT again?

Hi Seamgoal,

Your focus on cleantech is quite obvious from your work experience, and I assume your career goals are also related (in case they are not, think again).

Your list of b-schools is very broad- top 5. Top 5 where? Top 5 in what? and Top 5 for who? You need to scratch the surface a bit harder to refine your list of schools.

Figure out what is it that you want to study, considering your career goals. Next, which b-schools will fulfill that need? If its clean tech, let me give you names of a few courses to get you started. Explore these programs and make a list of what you like about each of them. Look at the curriculum - electives, concentrations, projects & immersions, related Centres of excellence, clubs, internship/ employment data that is relevant to your career goals. Talking to students/ alums is very helpful.

For the list: Haas Energy and Clean Technology, MBA Program, Berkeley-Haas
Duke: Energy & Environment Concentration - Duke's Fuqua School of Business

McCombs Austin: https://www.mccombs.utexas.edu/MBA/Full-Time/Program-Information/Curriculum/Concentrations/CleanTech.aspx

Namita, MBA Decoder
Reject Analysis Anyone?

Dear Consultants,

My brief profile is:
B.E. (Mech) : VJTI (Mumbai University): 72%
Masters in Mechanical Engineering:Cornell University : 3.5 GPA
GMAT Score : 700 (I know I can do a bit better)
CFA Level I

Work Experience:
Intern: 9 months : PE focused in Cleantech
Analyst: 6 months : Carbon consulting
Sr Consultant : 2 years : Accounting Big 4 mostly consulting bilaterals, multilaterals, and Indian government in field of Cleantech (both energy efficiency and renewable)

Other than this, I have a couple of papers published in an international conferences and journals. Also I was the chief coordinator of my college technical festival

I want to apply to top 5 along with couple of universities in Asia and Europe. I was wondering about my chances and whether I should take the GMAT again?

People securing < 60% in 10th and 12th can get admission in a good MBA college ?

Hello,

Brief Profile:
10th- 89%
12th- 82%
MBA(Tech) from NMIMS...it is a dual degree program (B.Tech in telecommunications + MBA in Operations) (2007-2012)

APICS CPIM-BSCM
Six Sigma Green Belt
CAPM
CCNA

Working as a Global Supply Chain Analyst with Alliance Tire Group (Untitled Document) since May'12.

4-month management internship experience with Tata Chemicals Ltd., with broad exposure in Supply Chain Optimization, Procurement, Quality Management and Automation.

5-months (3+2) internship with Reliance Communications and Syndrome Technologies in networking domain.

extra curricular activities include sports where i have captained my school and junior college team and played for Mumbai Cricket Association(Thane division) U-14 and U-16....Football where i have played for my college...Music (keyboard and harmonium)...also been part of organizing committee of college festival in lan gaming and food & beverages dept.


I wish to pursue one year masters in Supply Chain and Logistics from FT top 50 b-schools like sloans, london business school, rotterdam, cranfield etc. I still havent appeared for GMAT but i know i will require a score of 700+. So by next fall when admissions start, I will have a cumulative experience of 2 years approx (1.5 in supply chain)

I wish to know, considering my profile, am i eligible for these one year masters courses? or m I overqualified and should gain a bit more experience and then apply for MBA?

Hello,

Brief Profile:
10th- 89%
12th- 82%
MBA(Tech) from NMIMS...it is a dual degree program (B.Tech in telecommunications + MBA in Operations) (2007-2012)

APICS CPIM-BSCM
Six Sigma Green Belt
CAPM
CCNA

Working as a Global Supply Chain Analyst with Alliance Tire Group (Untitled Document) since May'12.

4-month management internship experience with Tata Chemicals Ltd., with broad exposure in Supply Chain Optimization, Procurement, Quality Management and Automation.

5-months (3+2) internship with Reliance Communications and Syndrome Technologies in networking domain.

extra curricular activities include sports where i have captained my school and junior college team and played for Mumbai Cricket Association(Thane division) U-14 and U-16....Football where i have played for my college...Music (keyboard and harmonium)...also been part of organizing committee of college festival in lan gaming and food & beverages dept.


I wish to pursue one year masters in Supply Chain and Logistics from FT top 50 b-schools like sloans, london business school, rotterdam, cranfield etc. I still havent appeared for GMAT but i know i will require a score of 700+. So by next fall when admissions start, I will have a cumulative experience of 2 years approx (1.5 in supply chain)

I wish to know, considering my profile, am i eligible for these one year masters courses? or m I overqualified and should gain a bit more experience and then apply for MBA?

Hey....
I just gave my GMAT....
Got a 770....Quant 50 verbal 45...
1.I wanted to get an idea as to what all colleges I should aim for abroad and what is the amount of money that I should be ready to shell out?
2.Does a good GMAT score help my case for a financial aid in the top B schools abroad or is it not much worth?
I am now going to start my final year of Mechanical Engineering at BIT Mesra.
PS:Without a financial aid I won't be able to take up a foreign MBA so should I drop the whole idea? My alternative is to hope to get accepted at ISB YLP...

Hi Mba Help,

Please evaluate my Profile:

10th: 90%,
12th: 81%
B.E: 79.6%

ECCA: Headed 2 societies in College.Organized Tech & Cultural Fests in College.
Social Cause: Working for an NGO for last 8 months(Part time).

Work Exp: 4 years in Oil Industry. Handled Project Management of multi-crore Project. Worked at Sites during Construction phase. Did commissioning of Project and now handling Operations of a Terminal as In-charge. During my 4 years of experience, I have learnt various aspects of Project Management, Procurement, Contract Management, Vendor Development, Site Co-ordination, Liaison with Govt. Departments etc.

You can see that my Profile is most suited for Operations Management. Now, I have interest in Finance Sector as well and tried with CFA, USA; but could not clear 1st level because of only 3 months given to its preparation.

To rise up the ladder and explore diverse career opportunities, I want an MBA degree and plan to apply in the top colleges of Asia and Canada which can offer me an Mba in 1 year with dual specialization: Finance & Operations.

Can you please suggest the names of the colleges suitable for my profile along with their rankings and approximate fees they charge?

Regards,
Ravs

Hi,

I want to pursue an MBA from an Asian College.
My interest is in Supply Chain Management & Operations. Can you please suggest some reputed colleges which excel in this field and simultaneously provide a Global Exposure?

Regards,
Ravs

Vijay12 Says

is it mandatory to have work experience from an MNC or a prestigious organization to enhance chances in ISB, Hyderabad.

You do not require work experience at a "prestigious organization". However, you need to have done quality work at your organization. You should have made a positive impact and grown in your career.

Namita at MBA Decoder

begrime Says

Sir??, can you tell me about the future of master in management programs which have recently become a hit among the students

Masters in management programs (outside India) are typically for people with 0-2 years of work experience. So, while you do not require work experience to qualify, you should have held some leadership positions at college or outside it (volunteering, community development). You would still need to demonstrate that you have leadership potential. Additionally your GPA, GMAT score and the quality and relevance of your essays, recommendations and resume will become important.

Be prepared to answer questions on your career goals and why an MBA now. You will need to figure out this bit yourself, and as you have not worked at all, this lclarity may be not come obviously. Use your internships/projects to analyse the kind of work you liked doing and if you would like to build your goals around that.

Namita, MBA Decoder

is it mandatory to have work experience from an MNC or a prestigious organization to enhance chances in ISB, Hyderabad.

Sir, can you tell me about the future of master in management programs which have recently become a hit among the students as many IITians are also going for it than your traditional MBA degree from overseas as they are cheaper,easier to get through and equally competitive compared to MBA.Just tell me what are the requirements a B school looks for a candidate applying for these programs.Do they need to have a strong resume or just a good score above 700 in Gmat will be good enough.honestly i dont have a strong resume to rely upon but yes i can try to score as much as possible in Gmat.I am a fresher .Recently completed my graduation from Delhi College Of Engineering but still unplaced unfortunately.Have planned to join an NGO and give all the MBA exams in india and gmat.So just brief me whether this program can be suitable or is it just wasting the parent's money and whether they accept freshers for this program or an experienced candidate. I am really worried and confused.Please help me out with it .Your suggestions will be quite valuable to me .Thanks..