Huge fan of the ClearAdmit podcast - the format for the show is well-structured and very easy to binge on!

As for my target schools, I'm still very early in my application phase. While the specific schools will likely change based on new information, I'm determined to get into the M7 tier of US schools as well as INSEAD in Europe.

A few extra bullet points about me, if interested:
- In late 2017, my personal hobby (or obsession :P) with cryptocurrency exploded into a career opportunity.
- I found success with my personal investments in the cryptocurrency space while working as a medical device consultant for Johnson & Johnson.
- I made the hard decision to leave the great pension and 6-figure salary J&J was offering to chase my dream as an entrepreneur in this emerging blockchain/cryptocurrency industry.
- I moved to Puerto Rico in early 2018 and personally funded the launch of my own US hedge fund $2M assets under management for 17 investors (LPs)
- I've also had my taste of failure. I made several large investments ($1M+) in blockchain startups, many of which have not panned out well, and some that have already gone belly-up!
- I currently volunteer as Director of Operations for a blockchain company, where I provide strategic advice to the CEO (related to the crypto market), manage a team of 15 ambassadors and issue a monthly podcast that communicates the company's progress to a community of 10,000 investors and supporters.
- Seeing several startups fall victim to poor leadership and lack of funding, I experienced the importance of strong proficiency in business, as well as a supporting network that can offer strategy and capital options if need be.
- I believe an M7 MBA is strong in both of the aforementioned areas (fundamentals & community) and can help ensure I put my best foot forward in my next venture in the blockchain space.
- Alternatively, crypto/blockchain is a booming industry and many M7s like Wharton and Stanford are even offering classes in this field. For students interested in the space, I can be a great resource for them in the same way they can help me with the traditional finance side.

With my low GPA from several years ago (which I will be addressing in the optional essay), I want to get an idea of how much of a factor this will play against me given my high-end target schools. Some consultants say GPA is just one factor among many, some say a low GPA can be a conversation stopper. I'm curious what you're thoughts are. Thanks for your consideration!