<p>I am really interested in the Harvard 2+2 program. I have a high GPA from an average university. I scored a 680 on the GMAT, and I have some decent ECs. I am an economics major with plenty of math courses. However, I know during the regular MBA application process they look at "real" work experience. I am a college junior and obviously have no "real" work experience. So I was wondering what they will be looking at or what else I can do to improve my chances?</p>
<p>I'd think you need a higher GMAT, and if you are from "an average university," a higher-than-high GPA.</p>
<p>I can't quite understand HBS's motivation for the 2+2 program (my company turns them down), but it doesn't strike me as a backdoor to HBS.</p>
<p>Harvard 2+2 programs I think is designed for 'superstars', individuals who have distinguished themselves at the undergraduate level. They have probably been recognized by some sort of awards for outstanding achievement in their first two years of undergraduate studies. Are you one of them?</p>
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I can't quite understand HBS's motivation for the 2+2 program (my company turns them down)
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<p>...and what 'company' would that be? Google and McKinsey, the most coveted b-school employers at elite schools, seem to be fine with 2+2 kids...</p>
<p>My company is an Indian conglomerate. We look for a very particular kind of person, and we haven't found it to date in any of the HBS 2+2 candidates. I think 2+2 kids would indeed fit in fine with the McKinsey and Google atmospheres, but frankly they wouldn't cut the mustard here.</p>
<p>Well, considering that Mckinsey and Google are 2 of the most coveted employers by MBA students, it seems as if the students probably don't really mind that your Indian employer won't hire them.</p>
<p>you don't need to be a 'superstar' and your GMAT is in the range, but some serious summer work experience where you made an impact is a must. </p>
<p>as for the HBS's motivation, that is relatively clear. they want to catch high-potential kids early before they decide to do something else or decide they don't need an MBA. it's a win-win situation for HBS and 2+2 students.</p>
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you don't need to be a 'superstar' and your GMAT is in the range,
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Have you met anyone who made the 2+2 program? Do you know what the admit rate is?
I seriously doubt having a GMAT of 680 makes one a 'high-potential' kid .</p>
<p>yup, several</p>
<p>I am retaking the GMAT and hoping to bring my score up. Do you think something like a 720 will really help my chances? Over the summer I normally work a regular college job (country club golf course), do you think I should consider looking for work that pertains more to the business world?</p>