I want to start off by saying that I love the podcast! I listen to it while working, in the shower and it has given me the knowledge and boost I needed to start thinking about pursuing my MBA. I'm first generation, female, Asian-American and I am looking to apply for an intake of 2022 or 2023. I've taken two practice GMATs and have scored a 680 and 690, but know that I will need at least a 700+ to overcome my low UG GPA.

WE: I have 5 years in consulting at 3 different boutique consulting firms specializing in two areas: revenue growth strategy and analytics consulting. At my first firm, I lived and trained in Bangalore, India for 9 months, which really helped shape me professionally and personally. Across my 4+ years, I've worked with a variety of clients ranging from F100 CPG to mid-market technology . At work, I've received a company spot award for my client services efforts and have been promoted. At each organization, I've been involved with ERG groups (founded two groups at two different organizations and led many internal trainings and workshops).

GPA: My GPA is low (2.9-3.0), but I do have a reason as to why (a traumatic event happened sophomore year that derailed my academic performance, but did start trending upwards towards my last 3 semesters). I was a scholarship kid, with full tuition covered and also juggled being an RA in college, and being involved in various organizations including being a founding member of my CPC sorority and serving as its first VP.

EC: Since graduating, I have been heavily involved with a mentoring program that serves inner city kids. I have had two high school age mentees and feel deeply passionate about this, as I was also a kid who didn't have much guidance during the college admissions process. At work, I have founded a Toastmasters chapter and an Asian-American ERG organization and organized multiple speaker series with folks from different companies and industries.

Is there anything else I can do to boost my profile? Should I consider other schools or PT programs? I'm trying to cast a wide net (with lots of reaches) and know that my GPA is a huge hinderance, but have worked really hard to overcome that post-grad. Ideally, I've love to stay in consulting, but targeting some of the bigger firms rather than staying in niche, boutique firms.

Thank you for taking the time to read, I deeply appreciate it!