Hi Shazamo,
Thank you for posting your profile! I grew up in Singapore, so we're practically neighbors!
Apart from your solid academic track record, I'm particularly impressed by your entrepreneurial drive and success in starting startups - all while being a lawyer. Congratulations on winning grants and growing your agricultural company. Projected revenues are of course great to include in your MBA applications.
It looks like you also have strong community engagement - during university and currently. That's something the Admissions Committee wants to see - that you are an active leader in your community.
To answer your questions -
1. It is well worth explaining the circumstances that affected your GPA in the optional essay. ADHD is a real health issue and you can point to how you have been able to perform well in the GMAT post-diagnosis.
2. If you are planning to apply this fall (2023), then you still have time to retake the GMAT since it sounds like you have been scoring pretty high on your mocks. I think it's worthwhile to retake it at least once more.
3. The Admissions Committee is not simply looking at the *number* of years of work experience. They are also looking at the impact of your role. In your case, I think you are more than qualified to apply this fall 2023!
4. Promotions - I don't think it's an issue. You can certainly ask your recommenders to mention this point.
5. Congrats on passing CFA Level 1. It's a hard test and I think passing it showcases your academic capabilities even more.
As you pull your apps together, be sure to describe what motivates you to be passionate about your career goals. Why MBA? What specific skillset or knowledge are you seeking at business school that you are not already learning given your track record as an entrepreneur?
If you can articulate this compellingly in your essays, that would be the key to your application success. If you would like to discuss your profile in more detail, feel free to schedule a 1:1 consultation with us. Wishing you the best in your MBA journey!
Sincerely,
Debbie