My Voice, My Face!

My Journey: The Beginning Stages of My Preparation

In the beginning of 2009, I began to take the necessary steps to apply for graduate business school.  I bought the Official Guide for GMAT, 11^th Edition.  I also visited websites of numerous graduate business schools.  In my research, I discovered that most institutions require applicants to take the GMAT or GRE.  Additionally, many graduate business schools require that applicants have passed a College Statistics, College Calculus and a College Accounting Class within the last five years.  This past summer I passed a College Statistics and College Accounting Class.  In January 2010, I will enroll at a local university to take Calculus. 

Why I am Obsessed With the GMAT and GRE? 

A high score on the GMAT or GRE is generally enough for the typical graduate business applicant to feel confident about his or her chances of being accepted to numerous graduate business schools.  Unfortunately, I cannot afford to overconfident.  My test scores need to be high, my essays need to be perfect, and my interviews need to be flawless.   I attended a top twenty-five, US liberal arts college; however, my academic performance was not stellar.  Moreover, I had a failed attempt at completing a law degree immediately after finishing my undergraduate degree.  As a result of past academic woes, I need to aim for perfection on the GMAT and/or GRE.

The Wrong Approach to Studying for the GMAT and GRE!

When I first started studying for the GMAT and GRE, I had no clue.  I found the Official Guide for GMAT, 11^th Edition to be written in another language.  My confidence began to erode.  After 2 months, I decided to take the GMAT Prep Test 1.  I scored 450 (Q, 22) on the practice test. Ouch!  I guess my math and verbal skills have eroded a bit in the last 9 years since I had stepped foot in a college classroom.

Many people would give up. Fortunately, I possess the attitude of a champion.  I believe that obstacles are just roadblocks that you have yet to overcome.  The impossible is left for people who do not stand up to a challenge.  I possess “the eye of a tiger.”

The GMAT and GRE Revelation

I am now happy to report that I finally achieved a 700 (47, Q) Practice GMAT score.  How did improve my Quantitative score?  It was not magic!  I did not hire a private tutor or attend a GMAT class.  I just bought the 9 math books by EZ Solutions.  I also learned from my previous mistake on my last GMAT practice test; I cannot expect to do well on both sections if I start the practice test after 8 PM.

I have created a 10 week study plan for those studying for the GMAT or GRE.  I encourage those who are getting started or those who are getting frustrated to follow my “blueprint” for success.  Some people can complete this program within 10 weeks while others may require additional time to complete this program.  Make sure that you complete all practice problems and review all the answers.