Admissions Books

Greetings Friends,

I'm currently a Logistics Officer in the Marine Corps, looking to transition out into consulting. In addition to leadership, my job has been heavy in data analytics, and I'd like to build upon that skill set in an MBA program to set me up for business analytics/optimization at MBB. I also have a lot of experience in Lean Six, Scrum/Agile, and analytics software like PowerBI.

I have a 3.2 in Industrial Engineering from a top 5 engineering school in the US, and and looking to take the GRE again (initial 164 V/162 Q) after a bit more study.

My top picks are honestly Sloan for the analytics bent and Booth for the flexible curriculum and location. Wharton for the same reasons, but it feels a bit out of reach with a 3.2. How realistic are my odds and what can I do to improve them?

I’m redoing this because I realized I should add a couple notes.

I’m not planning on attending until 2028 or 2029.

I have no ECs because I’m a dad and spend my time with my kid. Does that hurt me a lot?

What can I do to increase my odds? I’ve been thinking about pursuing the CFA.

Work Experience:

6+ years in the UK energy industry (will be 7 by matriculation).

Roles include Digitalisation Consultant; recently promoted to Package Manager.

Education (Cairo, Egypt):

BSc in Mechanical Engineering, GPA 3.87/4

GRE 320 (166Q, 154V)

Extracurriculars (mostly during undergrad):

Head of Student Union Public Services Committee (served the student body through SU café/restaurant initiatives)

Professional football player (until age 20, stopped due to college commitments) + College football team captain

Community volunteer (Ramadan Iftar campaigns)

Peer Coach (supported students on academic probation)

Question: I feel my profile is OK overall, but my GRE verbal score is well below Booth’s average. Since Round 2 is approaching, I’m debating whether to apply with my current score or retake the GRE. Would appreciate advice on whether to take my chances now or delay for a retake.

Also, any suggestions on other T7 schools where I would realistically have a shot at admission?