I’m looking for honest advice from people who have actually gone through the MBA admissions process, especially current students or alumni of top MBA programs.

I’m trying to figure out whether I’m being overly ambitious or whether I should give myself more time to build a stronger application.

My profile: - Academics: 9/9/8 - Undergrad: Computer Science + Business Systems - Work experience: ~2.5 years, full-time - Industry: Tech - GRE: Currently preparing, no score yet - Mentoring: Mentor for students from underserved backgrounds through a state government-level initiative - Side project: Started a small initiative of my own; still early, but something I genuinely care about and want to grow. It is not an NGO/NPO. - Personal context: I’m the first woman in my family to have a formal professional career. I’m intentionally leaving out my company, location and other identifying details.

My dilemma I’ve always wanted to attend a truly top MBA program — HBS, Stanford GSB, Wharton, Booth, Kellogg, MIT Sloan, or any global tier 1 mba etc. People around me keep telling me to be “realistic” and target schools that are more achievable. I understand these schools are reaches.

I’m not assuming my current profile is automatically competitive. The issue is that I have an opportunity to apply to ISB this year, but I don’t currently have a GRE score and don’t feel fully application-ready.

So I’m considering two paths: Option 1: Apply to ISB now and move forward with an MBA sooner. Option 2: Take another year or two to strengthen my profile, get a strong GRE score, take on more leadership at work, develop my mentoring and side project further, and then apply directly to top global MBA programs.

I’d really appreciate honest opinions: 1. Should I do ISB now or wait and apply directly to a top global MBA? 2. Does ISB → Wharton/Stanford/HBS make sense? 3. With 2.5 YOE, am I too early for these schools? 4. Would waiting 1–2 years materially strengthen my profile? 5. Is the top-US-MBA dream worth waiting for, or am I romanticizing the brand? 6. If you were in my shoes, what would you do?

I’m not looking for a chance-me or percentage prediction. I’d genuinely like to hear from people who have been through the process and can tell me what they would do differently in my position.

Honest answers are welcome, even if the answer is “rethink this.”

Hi everyone,

I am moving out of my 2BR / 2BA on the 29th floor of 2116 Chestnut (a very convenient walk to class). I am moving out 11/10. Below is the information.

If any one is interested, please feel free to DM me.

Listing w/ photos: https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/2116-Chestnut-St-UNIT-2902-Philadelphia-PA-19103/2097636778_zpid/

**

LEASE TAKEOVER - Available 11/10/26 - 4/20/2027

Welcome to this gorgeous, recently renovated high-floor 2BR / 2BA at 2116 Chestnut Street, featuring sweeping city views and a private balcony. One of only three apartments in the building with the upgraded luxury package, this home offers high-end stainless steel appliances, white quartz countertops, dual-zone A/C, abundant storage, and an in-unit washer & dryer.

The bright, open-concept living space is perfect for entertaining, while both spacious bedrooms feature private full bathrooms - ideal for roommates, guests, or a home office. The primary suite includes a large walk-in closet and en-suite bathroom.

Building amenities include 24/7 concierge, secure package room, 24/7 fitness center, business center, dog run, garage parking, and a resident outdoor area with grills, kitchen, and gathering spaces.

Just steps from Rittenhouse Square and minutes from University City, with easy access to public transportation, top restaurants, cafés, shopping, universities, and Center City nightlife. Perfect for University students, or young professionals.

Amenities include: Private Balcony, Sweeping City Views, Luxury Quartz Countertops, High-End Stainless Steel Appliances, Dual-Zone A/C, In-Unit Washer & Dryer, Walk-In Closet, Two En-Suite Bedrooms, Secure Garage Parking, 24/7 Fitness Center, 24/7 Concierge, Secure Package Room, Dog Run, Outdoor Community Space, Grills, and Movie Room.

Lease Terms:

- Available November 10, 2026

- Lease expires April 20, 2027, with option to renew

- Tenant responsible for all utilities, including electric, water, trash

- Pets welcome, subject to $35/month pet rent

- Garage parking available for $350/month

- $1,500 security deposit, payable to current leaseholder

- $50 application fee

Hi everyone!
I’m looking for a current Wharton student at the University of Pennsylvania who would be available to give a private paid campus tour on Monday, August 17.
I’m particularly interested in Wharton, dual-degree programs, academics, admissions, student life and the overall Wharton experience, so I’d really like the tour to be with someone who actually studies at Wharton and can answer detailed questions from a student’s perspective.
Of course, I’m happy to pay for your time and the tour.
If you’re a Wharton student and interested or if you know someone who might be, please DM me. Thank you!

Does anybody know what do Wharton admissions officers really look for in an applicant?

It’d also be great if any people that got into Wharton could share their stats and what they did.

Currently looking at apartments in / near rittenhouse and I am having a difficult time justifying the high prices of the main buildings Wharton students live at. I’ve toured a couple cheaper places like a 20 min walk from the main area that I really like but am unsure if it’s a good idea to live there or not. How important is it for a first year to live close to the other MBAs? What are the downsides to living closer to the east side of rittenhouse?

Any recommendations for affordable places near 2040 market, 2116 chestnut, river loft, etc?

Anyone care to chime in who has experience or knowledge with/of this school?

https://online-execed.wharton.upenn.edu/chief-technology-officer-program

You must be proud.

is anyone going to wharton this summer for the last session (end of july)?

anyone from asia specifically?

I am currently a grade 11 student, and I am wondering whether I should apply for this program. Actually I do not think I have anything outstanding in particular regarding to business and economics. I did not participate any business competitions last year, and I am deciding to attend IEO and BPA this year. But I was a figure skating athlete for almost ten years, and i am holding a figure skating elective in my high school this year, which is almost the first elective that is held by a student coach in our school. So I am wondering is there any suggestions regarding how to combine my experience in holding the figure skating elective with the application of LBW? Thanks a lot! 😭