Alternative routes to a top 10 (or M7) graduate business school

<p>Ok so a little background. I go to a non-target UG business school (although a couple kids go to banking every year and a few go to BBs in NYC. McKinsey "silently" recruits here, they look at top kids' resumes and whatnot). </p>

<p>I am interested in banking/high finance in NYC etc... I don't want to do it forever, but doing it for two years in New York would be a great experience. I am also interested in consulting (Deloitte hires a few every year from my school). </p>

<p>Had a kinda rough semester, I'm a soph, so I have time to rebound. Cumulative GPA is around a 3.65 so not horrible but I had such a rough semester I was afraid it was going to go down further haha (generally struggle with time management, dealt with a medical issue that caused lack of sleep the whole semester, etc...vowing to fix it now)</p>

<p>However, lately I have been thinking a "different" route would be better, more fun, better use of my early/mid 20s (as much fun as 85+ hour work weeks in banking sound..). </p>

<p>I know someone that works part of the year in Brazil and the other in half in New York City. I would love to do something like that, he does online marketing (not exactly my field, but if it pays the bills). </p>

<p>I would love to work abroad for a couple of years. I know getting a visa will get a pain, but I likely won't be trying to get full time citizenship. </p>

<p>I'm interested in politics and someone suggested working for a Senator/Representative for a couple of years could be a fun experience (even if congress is filled with buffoons). </p>

<p>I've dabbled with the idea of doing TFA. I don't know if I want to be a teacher (I do think it would be fun/cool to be a guidance/college counselor though, so gotta start teaching first haha) but I am interested in giving back to the community. Social enterprise is very important to me and I'd love to start my own non-profit someday. </p>

<p>There is also the Peace Corps, or City Year/Americorps, Notre Dame ACE project, etc...</p>

<p>So in conclusion...I have no darn clue what I want to do in life!</p>

<p>Any experience with non-traditional paths to a top MBA program? Any tips or advice for me?</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>