How Important are Extracurriculars?

[evanescentiz]

How important are extracurricular activities (during undergrad and post-undergrad) in top tier business schools like HBS, Sloan, Wharton, Kellogg, Yale...etc.?

I have a solid 3.7 GPA (Marketing/Finance) with a rigorous courseload and I should be able to pull together a decent GMAT score as well. After undergrad, I worked at two prestigious Asset Management companies (1.5 years, and 1 year) and will probably work for two more years before I apply to any MBA programs. I should have no problems getting a solid recommendation and pulling together an essay.

My concern is the ECs. I didn't really do much during my undergrad years (and post undergraduate). During undergrad, I have joined a few clubs here and there but nothing to really showcase any leadership skills. Will this reflect badly on my application? Recently, I have started some volunteer work legitimately as a hobby. But what can I do within these two years that can up my chances (if ECs are an issue)?

[Lisa Anderson]

Dear evanescentiz,

Schools do vary on how much significance extracurricular activities have in the evaluation. However, all schools look for applicants to show that they do something outside of work. Thus I highly encourage you to find a couple/few activities to become involved in between now and the time you apply to school. Ideally, you want to be involved at a level where you have tangible items to note on your applications/resume. Taking on a project or a leadership role in a community organization is also a great way to show skills you might not have an opportunity to showcase professionally, like leading teams or managing a budget. You can't change your lack of activities in college, but you can add some meaningful activities to your life now to strengthen your profile.

Good luck,
Lisa