<p>Looking at a lot of profiles I find myself to be in a somewhat unique situation in terms of trying to figure out which B-Schools to apply to. Taking just my overall undergrad GPA into account and projecting a decent performance on the GMAT I have a good idea. Though I am unsure if having an MS in Advertising will increase my chances at a more competitive school (Top-10 or Top-20). </p>
<p>Graduated in 06 from Top-30 state university with double major (transfered in from local JC).
Overall GPA 3.35, PoliSci GPA 3.87, History 3.13
Currently in a part-time MS in Advertising program from major university
Overall MS GPA 3.85, graduating fall of 08
GMAT will be taken this summer.</p>
<p>Worked 20 hours a week through all of my undergraduate degree as a software developer at small consulting firm.
Currently working full-time as a web application developer at a major university (top-60) since Jan of 07 focused on creating tools to share disability research (funded by federal grant) not the primary investigator but lead developer.</p>
<p>I intend to apply for the Fall of 09 class and very interested in an entrepreneurial focus. Any insight would really be appreciated.</p>
<p>Hi tavick, my take is that it may help, but it won’t help that much, as far as b-schools are concerned. I’m currently applying to b-schools, and I have a B.S. and an M.S. in Electrical Engineering from a school whose EE program is consistently ranked in the top 3. Do I think that will help? Perhaps. It shows that you’re capable of succeeding under the rigor of graduate school; however, b-schools are more interested in your work experience, community involvement, leadership skills, and whether you’re a good fit for the culture of their program.</p>
<p>From what I can see, you will most likely need to buff up your work experience. Business schools want full-time work experience; internships and part-time work don’t really cut it, unfortunately.</p>
<p>What I am trying to figure out is how I can expect the MS to affect my chances of admission at a more competitive program.</p>
<p>Is it the sort of thing where it will increase my odds at a school where I already match stats based on undergrad GPA or can I shoot higher (ie. top-20/10)?</p>
<p>From MBA2008’s response I might have to wait or readjust my goals. I worked part-time during school and full time during summers. I had involvement during undergrad (captain of debate team, was a rower at the university, tutored high school kids) but that has stopped. I really have been meaning to get involved again, should make the move instead of waiting.</p>
<p>Yes, I would definitely recommend getting involved again. I’ve been involved with a local volunteer organization for the last two years. It’s a good thing to do for the community, and I got a letter of recommendation from the vice president of the organization. So yea, it definitely helps.</p>