Hello All,

I'm a 2006 Berkeley Graduate in Architecture working as an Architect ever since. I'm determined to make a career change to Finance and I'm applying for MBA (term starting fall 2013). Besides my MBA application activities (essays, volunteers, etc) I have a year and a half before my projected MBA program starts to prepare and transition myself to a career in finance. I'm faced with two scenarios and I would love to hear your advice, comments, and suggestions:

1. First intern in I-banking (most likely at boutique / mid-market bank) then leverage the experience to land a entry I-banking job at a boutique / mid-market bank. Work there until going to MBA. I think having such experience will be almost necessary for me to land a finance position post MBA. However I wonder if it's advisable to switch job right before applying to MBA.

2. Stay where I am (no exposure to real finance) and hope a stellar MBA application will get me into a top program. I'm concerned that my lack of fiance experience will significantly limit my options post MBA.

Any thoughts on the subject matter is great appreciated! Thank you