Dear juyau800,

There is no preferred work experience for MBA admissions in terms of industry or function. What matters is what you have done in your career tenure--have you progressed? have you added value to your company? what are your accomplishments? have you gained a depth/breadth of knowledge? Depending on your long-term career goals and interests, you should evaluate which opportunity makes the most sense for you relative to the knowledge, skills and experience you will gain for the future. If you are planning to apply to business schools as an international student, there might be a slight advantage to IBM Consulting as it is evidence of your ability to work in a US-based company. However, how much of an advantage is debatable and definitely would not outweigh meaningful accomplishments with the property developer. Think about what you really want to do, not just now but 10 years from now, and determine which opportunity makes the most sense for your career path.

In regards to your question about the number of real estate folks in business school, I can only answer for why that is in the US. It is a small percentage compared to other industries at US business schools. The reason being that you don't need an MBA to be successful or advance in real estate in the States, although it might be helpful for many. There are some firms that value the degree, but it is not generally viewed as necessary. Likewise, for those who are already successful in the industry, they might be making enough money that going back to school is viewed as too high of an opportunity cost.

Good luck,
Lisa