What else do I need for a PhD program?

[nothanks700]

Hello!

I have a 4.0 in finance from Iowa State University. I did a research project (15 page paper) on real estate finance for my honors project, so also graduated in the honors program. 

I've held two full time 8 month internships in real estate finance, and corporate accounting. I also started a real estate club at ISU, was state president of a business organization, and was highly involved in investment groups and other activities.

i have been working as a broker for the past year. I'm sure I could put a positive spin on that somehow. 

I got a 167 verbal, and a 168 quant score on my GRE. I also got a 6 on the AWA portion. 

I'd love to go to either Stern or Booth for a PhD in finance, but I am concerned about applying.

I have no research experience where I was working for faculty. My letters of recommendation are alright, but not from professors I have actually worked with. 

I'll be applying for the fall 2017 term either way. Do you think it would be best to get my masters in finance at ISU first, just to get some research experience and better letters? Or do you think I should apply straight to Stern and Booth? What else do I need to get into these competitive programs? Even with my grades and such, am I competitive?

Edited March 1, 2016 by nothanks700

[vini@nodnat.com]

Hi, you have a strong academic profile no doubt; however, for PhD at Stern or Booth a strong research experience & publications would make your profile more competitive. I would suggest that you contact the professors at both the schools & have their take on your future course of action. They might offer an MS + PhD. So do not leave the option without exploring it.

Also, LORs should always be from people who have supervised your work or internship or project or academics.