This year or next year?

[oksure]

Hello, as the title suggests I'm trying to decide whether to apply this year or next. Here is my background:

Age: 28 this year
GMAT: 690 (45/40), planning to retake
School: BYU, GPA 3.83, Psychology/Business Strategy. Only 7-8 quant classes, but did well
Work: Deloitte Consulting (Strategy & Ops) - good experience and ratings, multiple projects involving Japanese and travel to Tokyo. Internship during undergrad in finance role (F100 company)
Extra-Currics: Junior Achievement Lead (36 classrooms), Kiva.org team organizer, ultra-marathon runner, Boston Marathon finisher, LDS Mission (Japan), BYU Strategy Program Alumni Chapter Lead, Management Consulting Club President (during UG)
Post MBA Goals: Corp strategy or leadership rotation program for F100 company

After some thought, I've broken it down into two likely options:

1. Apply this year
2. Switch to corp strategy job now, apply next year

Thank you in advance for the feedback and consideration.

[sherry.holland]

Hello "oksure" and thanks for your question. Based on the options you present, I would ask you why you would switch jobs now to enter the field you are hoping to enter after having earned your MBA? If you have a proven track record with your current employer, along with good progression, I would assume you have people who know you well who can provide you with strong recommendations. If this is the case, I would encourage you to prepare and retake your GMAT as soon as is feasible and then apply this year rather than making the switch.

Of course, valid arguments could be made for both options, but these are my thoughts.

I wish you the best of luck!
Sherry