Demographics: 36M, Asian-American, first generation college graduate & low income
Undergrad: Economics BS from a private university in Texas. My lower gpa was due to a mix of mental health issues and substance abuse after separating from the military. I grew up and got help so no further problems with those issues. I have completed HBS Core to help mitigate the poor GPA.
Work Experience: For the last 3 years I have worked at a family office focused on real estate finance. I started as an intern and was recently promoted to vice president. Prior to my current position, I spent 8 years in the US army as an explosive ordnance disposal technician. I led teams during two deployments to the Middle East and then transitioned to a specialized unit doing counter-WMD operations.
ECs: My current work schedule of 65+ hours a week limits my current availability to volunteer. During undergrad I volunteered at the local shelter and the local food bank. While in the military I led a team helping a local foundation that helped the homeless move into housing. I also managed an adult soccer team I played on.
Test: I know it isn’t ideal, but I took the Executive Assessment due to my work schedule and other obligations. With no studying I scored a 150 (10 IR, 11V, and 9 Q). I have been studying and on the past two practice tests I scored 158 and 156. I’m aiming to get 160+ but I want to be realistic about what I can gain in the next month.
School Selection: I’m looking at all the programs that will accept the EA which is a decent spread across the rankings. I included MIT and Stanford for the Sloan Fellows and MSX programs. Due to my age/work experience, I wonder if they are a better fit.
Other Info: My goal is to stay in the real estate industry but to shift into development or acquisitions. It is possible to switch to those types of positions from my current role/education level, but I want to get a masters degree and I wouldn’t mind a change of scenery, at least for a little while. I know I have some challenges ahead, but I’m going to give it a try. I appreciate any comments/advice. Thanks for your time and I love the podcast.