Pepperdine Graziadio Alumnus Ervin Mercado: How Highlighting Academic Growth Can Strengthen Your MBA Application

Pepperdine Graziadio Business School alumnus and current assistant vice president at Bank of America, Ervin Mercado (MBA ‘24) offers an inspiring example of how to emphasize academic strengths on MBA applications, even when past academic performance isn't stellar with U.S. News & World Report. After facing early challenges as a student at the United States Naval Academy, Mercado leveraged his strong finish at the Naval Postgraduate School to secure admission to Pepperdine’s MBA program.

For applicants like Mercado, telling a compelling story of growth and resilience can make all the difference in MBA admissions. “My undergraduate GPA wasn’t a reflection of who I am now,” he said. Mercado emphasized the importance of using optional essays to showcase progress and maturity. His recovery from early setbacks and eventual success in a challenging graduate program demonstrated his ability to handle rigorous academics, an essential trait for MBA programs.

Business school admissions experts agree that candidates should use interviews and essays to give context to their academic journey. Highlighting awards, accomplishments, and extracurricular activities also helps differentiate applicants. Mercado's story of determination exemplifies how MBA hopefuls can turn perceived weaknesses into strengths by showcasing their work ethic, growth, and potential.

Pepperdine Graziadio’s emphasis on developing leaders capable of driving innovation made it the perfect fit for Mercado, who has since parlayed his business education into a successful career in the financial industry.

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