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Question for Alex or Clear Admit

Brandon Strand
09-14-2006, 12:59 AM
I've been reading through this message board, and started realizing that I need advice about applying to MBA school regarding my age. Should I apply sooner or later?

I'm currently 28 years old, and graduating from USC with an accounting degree (undergrad). Prior to this, I was a Marine for 5 years, and attended community college. I have not been very active in leadership positions at my school, but I've done quite a bit of community service, including voluntary income tax assistance for the poor and a consulting project this semester for new businesses in the LA area (involving both the Clinton Foundation and USC).

I expect my graduating GPA to be 3.6-3.7, and I already took the GMAT last summer. I scored a 760. (99% V, 81% Q).

Work experience:
2 years with a small local S Corporation as an Accounting Manager (not as impressive as it might sound, but gained a wide range of experience)
Summer internship with a Big 4 Accounting firm, with an accepted job offer to start full time in Jan as an auditor

I already know from experience that I do not want to be an accountant my whole life. I do not hate the profession, but I don't think I would be happy doing this the rest of my life. My original plan was to do 2-3 years as an auditor at the accounting firm, and get my CPA certification. Then, apply for MBA school.

However, looking at some of the posts, it seems as if the average age of applicants is in their late 20's. I would be about 32 years old at time of the application period if I stick with my original plan.

What is your best advice? Should I stick it out with the accounting firm for a few years as originally planned, or should I scrap those plans and start applying to business schools now? I know my GMAT scores are good for 5 years, but I'm not sure if my military and work experience would be strong enough to apply now. I'm looking at top ten schools, with Stanford as my No.1 pick. I also plan to apply to Harvard, UCLA, and UCB. The situation is further complicated by the fact that I recently bought a condo here (SoCal) with my brother.

I really don't know exactly what I want to do in the long run, but right now starting my own consulting practice or being a CEO/Pres. of a company is sounding good to me.

If you offer a free initial consultation and you feel that this thread would be difficult to answer without more information, please let me know so we can schedule something. Thank you in advance for you reply!

Clear Admit
09-18-2006, 08:24 AM
yes, we do offer a free initial consutling call. you can call our main line to request: 215 568 2590

i would have said if you were firm on your goals now it might make sense to apply now, if not, getting a year or two of additional experience as you explore your goals may help you get more out of the MBA experience. while age is a bit of an issue, it will simply be critical for you to establish "why now" ... which I think you will be able to if you postpone b school a little given your less than conventional path to date.

cheers, alex


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