Advice on where to go from here, thanks

[pgalange]

Hi, I thought this may be a good place to ask for some advice. I recently completed my undergraduate, and got a great job opportunity with a prestigious private equity firm, which would enable me to work all around the world. I am planning to work with them for several years, and then apply to a top b-school MBA (e.g. Wharton, HBS). I was wondering if anyone could let me know what the significance of ECs are for business applications, and what kind of things I should become involved with over the course of the next two years. Below are some general points as to where I stand now:

Education: Honours in biomedical sciences, GPA: 3.95
Honours List 2006-2010, graduated with distinction
Received highest average in program (Gold Medal)
Learning how to speak German as a second language (will live there soon... yikes)

GMAT: 710/6.0

Work Experience: Nuclear researcher for two summers, lifeguard for two summers, worked at rural clinics in Philippines for a summer, worked for Public Health at flu clinics for several months, and the aforementioned private equity job (full-time, will begin this coming January)

Awards and ECs: Duke of Edinburg (ongoing), Nominated highest level of fitness at University, Black Belt, Scholarships (up to $26,500), Ski and Swimming instructor certificates, and a several others. I have a whole bunch of volunteer stuff throughout the past four years (international, local), and sports that I have played (but only recreationally/teaching). I think ECs are probably where I could use the most work right now...

Sorry for the long post, but any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[mbamission]

Hi pgalange,

Thanks for writing in. It sounds like you're headed for an amazing experience, good luck!

Extracurriculars are one of the pillars of an MBA application, and are part of the holistic evaluation that also includes GMATs, GPA, leadership, etc. It sounds like you have some great experience in that already, but MBA programs mostly care about what you have done since college. My advice would be to remain active in the community as you start your new job, and find organizations that motivate you and look to take leadership positions in those groups.

This will help you tell stories both within and outside of work, when the time to apply comes.

Good luck!
Daniel Richards
http://www.mbamission.com

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[pgalange]

Thanks for following-up, that's great advice. I am really excited about the opportunity; January can't come soon enough. It is going to be tough to have any long-term volunteer commitments though because I will be moving around every three months or so :S. I was thinking of balancing two volunteer activities in each country I visit: one in a business-related field, and the other in a community service. Hopefully that would give me a chance to meet some new people, while making an impact. Enjoy the rest of your Thanksgiving!