venkatbhargavs

Thanks for the feedback! Now I'd better get started on those SOPs!

Anything guys?

Hello Would be grateful for any help people can offer! Program: MPP and similar programs Schools Applying To: HKS, Chicago Harris, Sanford etc. Nationality Indian Interests: I'm primarily interested in the areas of public finance, sustainable development, green finance, financial inclusion in developing countries, microfinance and social investing. My work is at the intersection of finance and public policy and my goal is to work with a multilateral development agency such as the World Bank, IFC , ADB etc. Undergrad Institution: State university in India Undergraduate GPA: 3.1 (when converted to the 4.0 scale) Undergraduate Major: Instrumentation and Control Engineering Graduate diploma - Management with a focus on finance and strategy Graduate Institution - One of the top management institutions in India Certifications - CFA (US), FRM GRE: Took the GMAT. 750 which converts to 165+ in both Q and V on the GRE exam. Age: 28 Languages: English, Hindi and Telugu Work Experience: 5 years I work with the central bank of my country, the Reserve Bank of India. India's central bank is unique in that along with monetary policy, it also works in the spheres of financial inclusion, public policy, investor protection and related areas. I've been involved with working towards curbing illegal financial activities, ponzi schemes and the more nefarious aspects of shadow banking. I was also involved with managing the recent demonetization exercise in India. Also part of my core duties is financial regulation and supervision of banks. LORs: My current/former supervisors would be happy to write a LOR. Will find it difficult to get academic references. SOPs: Haven't started yet. My SOP will focus on my experiences while working in public finance and policy in a developing country. Will talk about how there experiences led to an interest in public policy and development. I've made solid contributions to several key policy decisions which I plan to highlight Concerns: I'm worried about the following aspects: 1. Age - Would I be considered too old for the programs I intend to apply to? 2. Lack of international experience - Apart from a couple of personal trips/vacations, my entire life till now has been based in India. How big a problem will that be? 3. Nature of experience - Will my experience being in a niche area become a hindrance? Will my combination of education and experience be considered a good fit for the programs I'm targetting? I'd appreciate any feedback on this from the people here. Thanks!