The Wharton MBA

TOEFL for internationals

kuzzden — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:59:18 GMT

Dear all, please help me understand the following issue:

Recetly I was warned by applicants that despite:

"International students may waive the TOEFL exam if they have earned an undergraduate or master's degree in an English-speaking country or from an institution in which English is the language of instruction."

Wharton may decline application without exam results.

Should I submit any letters (in addition to transcript) from my previous university to prove English as an official language of study? What should I better do to stay calm about TOEFL?

Thank you in advance!

Sincerely,

Denis

MBA and EMBS application

jcortinaw — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 17:32:35 GMT

Dear all,

I am planning to apply for an MBA or EMBA program to start fall, 2014. My question is:

is it possible to apply to both an MBA and to an EMBA program at the same time? How should this be addressed?

Is the deadline for EMBA applications already defined?

Thank you.

Javier

admissions

manik bansal — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:52:03 GMT

Hey... i am Manik Bansal currently studying in Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, India. I will get my degree in 2015 as i have just completed my 2nd year. I want to pursue a full time MBA program in Wharton Business School, University of Pennsylvania. So can you exatly tell me that if I can get admission into this program directly after passing out of college????

when should I apply????

confusion! in the website you have the new deadlines but the OLD essays...does that mean the essays will stay the same?

marialum — Tue, 11 Jun 2013 17:17:36 GMT

i found it really confusing that you have the deadlines for the class of 2016 and yet you still have the essay topics of 2015 on there...will the essay topics change?

Admissions Question

hmikl45 — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 19:38:34 GMT

Hello!

I am graduating from undergrad in less than a week. Several of my professors encouraged me to take the GMAT before I started work. About two months ago, I took the GMAT to see how it is, and I scored a 640 (Q-47, V-31, IR-7, AWA-5). Afterwards, I studied for a month, retook it, and scored a 710 (Q-49, V-39, IR-5, AWA-5). I'm very pleased with a 710 because its above the 700-threshold and my Q/V subscores are each above the 80th percentile. And I know Wharton prefers (though may or may not require) to see an even breadown of V/Q, with each subcategory above 80th percentile.

However, my IR went down (from a 7 out of 8 to a 5 out of 8). It really puzzled me that my IR score went down since I scored higher without any preperation on my first attempt. Would my "low" IR score on my higher overall GMAT peformance be a pause for concern for Wharton (assuming that I apply in 3-4 years)?

Just to give better insight into my background: I have attained straight A's in all of my undergraduate Math/Analytically-Oriented classes, I majored in Information Systems and Accounting, and I will be doing a ton of data analysis and analytical thinking in my job as a Consultant with a highly-respected Consulting practice.

Thanks in advance for any insight.

submiting a new GMAT score after application

ricardorivero — Sat, 29 Dec 2012 22:01:05 GMT

Dear All,

I am applying in R2, but I am aware I have a below average GMAT score 650 (Q49, V 28, AWA 5.5) / TOEFL 105. I am from Peru, I have been at investment management for 7 years and have a strong finance background (CFA).

I know I can do a lot better at V, but I didn't want to re-study the GMAT while doing my essays. I plan to take again the GMAT on January 29th, 2013. Can I add my new unofficial score after my 2nd round aplication? I know that chances at R3 are very low, that's why I prefered to focus on my essays, to apply in R2, and afterwards to submit a better GMAT score (max end of Jan 2013).

Is this possible? Or the school is only going to review the app submitted GMAT scores? Should I inform adcom by email or just in the additional essay?

thanks in advance,

Ricardo

Interview for an applicant living in Africa

JEANRAY — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 06:14:38 GMT

Hello,

I'm living in Cote d'Ivoire in West Africa and I wonder if interviews are usually conducted in this country. If no, what are the possible locations?

Also, I'd like to know if the team based discussion is compulsory even for someone living in my location.

Thanks in advance for your reply.

Master's GPA vs. Undergraduate GPA

vigneshn — Wed, 15 May 2013 21:08:38 GMT

My undergraduate GPA in Biomedical Engineering was a 3.54, and my master's GPA (UPenn) in Bioengineering was a 3.30. Typically, master's GPA's are supposed to be high because of the smaller classes and easier grading, but my classes at Penn were fairly large. I was wondering how Wharton Adcoms will weigh my master's GPA in conjunction to my undergraduate GPA. Will it hurt my chances? In addition to schooling, I have worked at Accenture for about a year as a Technology Consulting Analyst, and have undertaken projects mostly in the life science and pharma field. Thanks!

Reapplicant questions

reapp37 — Tue, 21 May 2013 02:59:33 GMT

Hello – I applied to Wharton this past application cycle (January round) and was denied admission without an interview. I’d like to post a bit about my background and ask a few questions to gauge my chances if I re-apply this fall.

As far as my profile -- I'm a white male and will be 28 in August. I graduated from an Ivy League engineering program with a 3.2 GPA in May 2007. I earned some poor grades in the first two years of school, but I showed marked improvement in my junior and senior years. I have taken the GMAT three times, and my best score is 680 (71% Q, 83% V, 85% overall).

Since finishing undergrad, I've worked in New York as a risk management/performance improvement consultant at a Big 4 firm. My ratings are consistently high and I was recently promoted to Manager. Last year I participated in a 10-week exchange program in Brazil, and also was selected for a week-long environmental sustainability volunteer program in Costa Rica. Additionally, I have traveled for pleasure to about 20 countries. Outside of work, I served as Co-Chair for my 5-year undergrad reunion, have coordinated various community service events through work, and have played drums/recorded music in various alternative rock bands since high school.

Following my MBA, I plan to focus on renewable energy in either a finance or consulting capacity. I am considering applying to the joint MES (Master of Environmental Studies) / MBA program at Penn, or just re-applying to Wharton. If I am to apply to the joint program, I will need to take the GRE.

Given all of this, I have the following specific questions:

(1) What are my chances if I re-apply to Wharton (MBA only) with an improved GMAT score (e.g., 720)?

(2) If I do well on the GRE and submit that score in lieu of the GMAT, will my previous GMAT score also be taken into account (and therefore hurt me)?

(3) Do I have a better shot at admission to Wharton if apply as an MES/MBA candidate?

(4) Suppose I am accepted into the MES program and not into Wharton later this year. Will my chances for admission to Wharton increase if I re-apply as an MES student in Fall 2014?

Thank you for your time and consideration. Above all else, I would appreciate honest responses.

Three Bed 3 Bath Penthouse in Rittenhouse! $6,000

michellegoldman — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 15:14:39 GMT

A must see in a great location! Located at the corner of 18th and Chestnut Street. We are expanding the gym and building a party room/ lounge for the use of the residents.

Apartment Features:
Hardwood floors throughout with carpet in the bedrooms
Two Balconies
Stainless kitchen equipment
Exposed brick
Washer and Dryer
Gas range
Marble bathroom
Large walk-in closet
Doorman building
Elevator
Pet Ok with deposit and extra rent $25 per month
Call Michelle 917-509-1052

For photos please see link

https://post.craigslist.org/manage/3836431503/dgh3v

Two Bed Two Bath plus Balcony and Fireplace in Rittenhouse! $3,200

michellegoldman — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 15:12:16 GMT

A must see in a great location! Located at the corner of 18th and Chestnut Street. We are expanding the gym and building a party room/ lounge for the use of the residents.

Apartment Features:
Hardwood floors throughout with carpet in the bedrooms
Balcony
Stainless kitchen equipment
Exposed brick
Washer and Dryer
Gas range
Marble bathrooms
Large closets
Doorman building
Elevator
Pet Ok with deposit and extra rent $25 per month
Call Michelle 917-509-1052

For photos please see link

https://post.craigslist.org/manage/3802258236/vk7n9

Fully Furnished, Large 1Bdrm, 840 SF, Center City

dkny — Sun, 09 Jun 2013 04:34:55 GMT

Fully Furnished Condos in Center City.

Available June 12th.

Coming from abroad? All you need are your clothes! No need to buy furniture, mattress, Television, Kitchen Items, etc... IT's ALL here.

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/apa/3727921742.html

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/apa/3796399720.html

Alternate Transcript

ajp22 — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 05:19:16 GMT

1. What sort of coures are recommended for the alternate transcript?

2. I did poorly in my last semester of law school (before quitting in the second year) because of health and personal reasons. Will the alternate transcript---given that I succeed in all my quant courses---ameliorate this 'dark mark' on my academic record? Does the adcom look at grade trends?

Landing a job in a PE / VC firm

asafpol@gmail.com — Fri, 24 May 2013 20:52:06 GMT

I am interested in getting into PE or VC (still haven't figured out which one is the right fit for me). I was wondering whether a Wharton MBA can help me get in.

The issue is I don't have any IB past experience. My finance experience consists mainly of being an auditor in KPMG.

I talked with someone who told me it is very hard to get into those fields even with experience as an IB.

Do you guys think I even stand a chance?

PhD Student

prospective2012applicant — Fri, 31 May 2013 19:58:07 GMT

Dear S2S community/Victor/FF:

I am currently a PhD student researching on topics exploring the intersections of strategic management and private equity graduating in 2017 when I'll turn 32. Based on my experiences, thus far, I am keen on pursuing an MBA given I am interested in both implementing my research ideas within the right context (so, with PE leaders and professionals within a team environment), as opposed to strictly or solely "researching" on these key areas within an academic setting. I recognize an MBA, and more specifically a Wharton MBA, would provide me with the key settings of working with industry leaders and expertise I seek (I've looked through the curriculum, as well as, professors who are teaching the course; I have looked at companies that have traditionally hired from Wharton; I have looked specifically at the clubs registered on campus, what they have offered and their strengths (particularly in terms of grooming candidates for roles at PE shops) and would also be interested in giving back to the Whartn community through my involvement in other clubs focused on social enterprise and non-profit given my experience).

A PhD is strictly a mix of research and academic pursuits -- My decision to pursue a PhD was very clear and pragmatic. I pursued a Master in Finance prior to the PhD and this was a clear path, and more importantly I enjoy research and have enjoyed exploring or thinking about topics that I would otherwise not be able to think about in normal work conditions or an environment. As part of my research I have also tried focusing on a mix of both basic and applied research; I understand the latter focuses on implications of theory and research on management which is what has interested me even more. However, again in purely academic and research setting, I "cannot" apply that I research on -- for that I would need to enter the work environment and professional field. Consulting engagements for companies do not fit the bill nor criteria -- that may be considered as work, but it is not the same as working within a company, driving or fostering change, and potentially serving as a CEO in the long-run, hence my decision in pursuing an MBA.

My question is at 32-35, would I be considered too old to apply for a Wharton MBA given how many schools now routinely recruit/attract younger candidates? Prior to my PhD, I did work for 5 years and so have 5 years of work experience, and can share my learnings and expriences with my cohort, as much as I am keenly interested in learning from their professional experiences. Should I consider the Executive MBA?

Any other advice for somone like myself with a PhD in Management/Finance?

Thanks,

Looking for a room in August

daisyqiu — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 06:51:57 GMT

Hey, I'm new graduate student commencing my degree in Fall, I'll arrive in the U.S roughly 16 August, desperately need to find a place to live. Please email me if there's a spare room availble in your apartment. You can send an email to daisyqiu@gmail.com

Daisy

$1795 - Luxury 1 Bdrm in Rittenhouse Square

mehulp — Sat, 01 Jun 2013 17:29:52 GMT

Corner Unit - 1 bedroom / 1 bathroom condo unit available in a 24 hour doorman building. Every room has windows - a lot of sunlight. The Ellington building (1500 chestnut street) has a gym, clubroom, library, storage and bike storage.

Availability: July

Finishes:
- Brazilian Cherry wood floors in the entire apartment
- Marble bathrooms
- Granite countertop
- High end Stainless Steel appliances, including dishwasher
- Washer and dryer
- Central A/C and Heat

Amenities:
- 24-hour concierge is at your service to assist with all manner of requests
- A state-of-the-art fitness center
- Clubroom with conference tables, library and plasma screen TV - Great place to study
- Storage and bike storage
- Parking available in the garage (extra fee)

Unfurnished apartment

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/apa/3840854633.html

Please call 917 450 0374 or email mehul.g.patel@gmail.com

$2300 Sublet - FABULOUS 2BD/2BATH IN CENTER CITY / Walnut St (Rittenhouse Square)

vmercado — Sun, 26 May 2013 17:03:44 GMT

Extremely well located on center city Walnut St, 2 blocks from gorgeous Rittenhouse Square Park on Walnut Street and 16th. Apartment is on a high floor and has large panoramic windows in every room make this apartment very very bright and luminous. Great views to main streets and Philadelphia skyline. Apartment is extremely spacious and comfortable with very large rooms and a living room. 3 full-sized closets. Sizable and well laid out kitchen area makes cooking a pleasure. Washer and dryer within the apartment. Extra washers and dryers on each floor in the building.

2 very spacious bedrooms with private bathrooms. Large open living room with huge windows to the outside, ideal for hanging out or hosting people over. Fully furnished with option to purchase. Wifi in apartment (utilities included in price)

Available for sublease from June 1st to August 31st or inmediate full lease. Please email us (azulgoy@gmail.com) with any further queries and we will be happy to get back to you with any additional details.

Check pics: http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/sub/3830292077.html

all-inclusive furnished housing in Philadelphia (both short- & long-term)

akshayj — Wed, 29 May 2013 03:25:01 GMT

if you need a great flat rate, all inclusive, furnished apartment or even just a room in Rittenhouse Fitler Square Philadelphia, you've got to try www.mansionMatt.com.

$1850: 1 Bdrm in Rittenhouse Sq Fully furnished

mehulp — Tue, 28 May 2013 16:54:21 GMT

1 bedroom 1 bath - steps away from Rittenhouse Square.

This building has a
1. 24-hour concierge is at your service to assist with all manner of requests
2. A state-of-the-art fitness center
3. Clubroom with conference tables, library and plasma screen TV
4. Storage and bike storage
5. Parking available in the garage (extra fee)
6. 20 minutes commute (door to door) from apartment to Huntsman Hall

Finishes:
- Brazilian Cherry wood floors in the entire apartment
- Marble bathrooms
- Granite countertop
- High end Stainless Steel appliances, including dishwasher
- Full size GE washer and dryer included
- Central A/C and Heat

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/apa/3834320158.html

Email for viewing the apartment - mehul.g.patel@gmail.com

$1200/ 1 BD/BA in 2BD Luxury Condo - Free Pool/Gym Access!

upenn87 — Mon, 27 May 2013 13:32:55 GMT

Hi! I'm an alumna and my good friend (4th yr PennMed student) is looking to share his amazing condo in Naval Square with a fellow student. Check out his unbeatable listing at

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/roo/3776991439.html

AVAIL JUNE OR JULY 1 for 1 YR LEASE

Rent is $1200/month and includes:

-Private 1BD/1BA with walk in closet

-In-Unit washer/dryer

-beautiful kitchen with stainless appliances, granite counters, breakfast bar

-fully furnished common areas (living,dining,kitchen)

-hardwood floors, central AC/heat

-24 hr security, concierge

-FREE POOL/GYM ACCESS!

Please respond directly to his craigslist add, or email marconi.christina@gmail.com if interested! Thanks :)

Furnished 1 Bdrm Condo at Ellington, June 2nd.

dkny — Sun, 26 May 2013 20:18:19 GMT

Fully Furnished 1 Bedroom Condo at the Ellington. All you need to bring is your clothes!

Available June 2nd.

$2,250 per Month.

Selling Furniture!!!!

anzhang — Sat, 25 May 2013 20:20:25 GMT

I am moving to NYC and I need to get rid of all my furniture ASAP. All are in great condition and I paid much more for them two years ago.

I am selling:

My bed: $100 (JCPenney)
Nightstand $40 (JCPenney)
Couch: $100
Ottoman: $35 ((JCPenney)
Giant Mirror: $25 (IKEA)
Desk: $80 (West Elm)
Chair: $50 (West Elm)
Shelving Unit: $25 (IKEA)

Buy everything for $300

Come by and have a look. Discount for buying multiple pieces!

Must come by and pick up. email me at anzhang@wharton.upenn.edu for pictures and specs.

Thing Consider When Buy Sofa

Simonplaur — Fri, 24 May 2013 15:03:47 GMT

Most people opt to live in small homes due to financial reasons. Some just want to live independently on their own so they do not need a bigger place. If you have a family, you prioritize the necessary rooms leaving you short of area to have a guest room. With a sofa bed, any room is ready to accommodate a guest to sleep over.

Beside sofa bed, Getting a leather sofa for your living room would make it more relaxing as well as luxurious. Nevertheless, there are some factors that you need to consider when buying this piece of furniture. The most essential factors are its quality and price. You must be able to get a good quality sofa that is deserving of its price. If you know little about leather, then read this article to help you guide the next time you decide to buy your own leather sofa.

If you want to relex at your room reclining sectional sofa are good for you. A sectional sofa can decorate your home in a very beautiful manner. If you are looking at decorating your home and at the same time maximizing the usage of the space n the family living area then reclining sectional sofas are one of the best things to have in your furniture set up.

However, what sofa you buy, just remember measure your space room. Space is the most important factor in buying a sofa. When buying a sofa you should choose the one that can easily fit in your space without affecting other things. All of us would want to buy a large sofa on which three adults can sit comfortably. For a couple, try a pair of two seater sofas.

Learn more the other tips on buying sofa bed

Furnished, 850 SF Corporate Style Condo in Rittenhouse

dkny — Fri, 24 May 2013 12:57:45 GMT

I have a furnished condo currently rented to Oakwood Corporate Housing.

Here are pics: share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=wBYtGLZwxbs2roI

Available June 1st. Rent is $2,250 per month.

Contact me if interested: dimplekhurana@gmail.com