The Application Process

I've read reports that most of the top schools draw from particular types of vocational backgrounds (banking/finance/consulting). I was a part of a small non-profit startup (8 employees) that did some amazing things (like organize a conference for 8,000 people) but the admissions committee won't be familiar with it at all!

Is this considered a serious disadvantage? It's at least unique which might set me apart and give me an interesting story...

B-schools look for a diverse student body. What's most important for people from non-traditional backgrounds is that you demonstrate the impact that you've had on the company and how your unique experiences will allow you to contribute to the school.

It's not a disadvantage.

Embrace it! Just make sure you take the time to explain what you've done so they know how special you are. But think of it as an advantage because you're unique.

I had similar experiences....small unknown company, but that enabled me to have an impact that was felt through the entire company. Rarely do analysts at Goldman have the opportunity to impact the entire company, so that is a leg up a lot of non-trad candidates have.