New Job 10 months before applying

[polarmar]

Hi,

I am contemplating taking a new job in the Middle East with a sustainability strategy (corporate responsibility) consulting firm. The firm is a local firm; however, it is very credible and established in this field in this region. I am planning to apply to MBA Programs in October for fall 2013. (w/ Ross, Haas, and Stanford being my top choices). I am curious whether taking this job will improve my profile or not as opposed to continue on Tech Consulting in the US (which I have done for three years - one consulting firm, one client!)

Demographic
Middle Eastern/26/M

Profile:
B.Sc Aerospace Engineering, 3.9 GPA, top ranked US state college.
3 years of Tech Consulting in a Top tier Consulting Firm.
Spent 4-5 months of volunteering and social involvements in three different countries.
GMAT is 730 (Quant 86th, Verbal 98th percentiles) - I know the Quant is not good enough, but I don't think it is a good reason to re-take it. I can make a case that 4 years of intense math classes (mostly all aced) are more indicative of one test gone bad.

Will taking this job affect my profile negatively or positively for getting into Ross (Haas and Stanford are my far-fetched shot)? What schools I might realistically have good shot at?

[Jon@Admissionado]

Like I always tell people: Never choose your job just for your MBA. I mean are you gonna give up a double your salary dream job just because of the perception that one post might be better for an MBA? Follow your dreams dude. Anything you choose can be ultimately written into a good narrative. Yes, it helps if you make more money and yes it helps if you will have more leadership and yes it will help if you have more responsibilities

PS - Nice GMAT. (Don't retake! And if anyone tells you you should bop them over the head)

[polarmar]

Thanks Jon - I appreciate your frank answer.

I agree with you - and, honestly, I am taking the job because I find it exciting in a ground breaking area that the Middle East Region badly needs. And, well, I don't care for Tech Consulting.

Thanks again ...

[Jon@Admissionado]

Ahhhhh! The truth comes out!
Good man! To be honest, if it makes you happy, you are gonna do soooo much more interesting things. It'll be great for Bschool too.