To this statement, we say “Uh-oh.”
We see nearly this exact statement in lots and lots of optional essays submitted with MBA applications. Brave Supplicants know that their test performance wasn’t in range of what the “best” candidates are presenting, based on the averages published at their target school, and they want to say something about it in the optional.
Premium content starts here…
———–
Premium content ends. Not yet a blahg member? Buy access to all the snark here!
If you find yourself reaching for this “It’s not reflective of…” phrase anywhere in your apps, we beseech you to slow down and consider it. It’s a case of unintended messaging and it can really not be helpful, no matter how sincere you might feel when you say it.
It’s still early enough in the admissions season that you totally have time for a do-over if necessary. Retaking that GMAT or GRE can honestly be well worth the stress and investment of time in the studying part. Things are not getting any less competitive with these MBA programs. Doing all that you can, NOW when there’s still time to do it, is the best way to build towards a hopefully happy outcome at the end of this process.
THAT is what would be truly reflective of your abilities, right?
Tell us what you think.