<p>My undergraduate degree is in Biology. I plan to work as a science technician or in any type of research related job. Is it possible for individuals who are not exposed to the corporate life to get into schools such as Harvard Business or Wharton? Furthermore, what types of things other than volunteering can I do to develop leadership skills? Thanks.</p>
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<p>Yes.</p>
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<p>Volunteering is great, especially if you can get on a non-profit board. Other things? Join Toastmasters, position yourself for leadership roles at work, …</p>
<p>There appears to be a pattern that is hard to break. It seems that individuals who are getting into top MBA programs are already hired by the best companies to begin with. However, as in my case, if you have obtained a degree that is not remotely related to business, it is hard to break into these fields.</p>
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<p>indeed. the top mba admissions process has quite a bit of nepotism ingrained. many of the selection criteria are a euphemism for wealth:</p>
<p>-quality/prestige of undergrad
-family income
-somehow raised funds to start a nonprofit
-family alumni status
-perceived connections/name dropping
-ability to visit schools on a whim to “show interest”
-hire admissions consultants (over 2k a school for the best ones)</p>
<p>usually, the admissions breakdown is 1/3 consulting, 1/3 banking, 1/3 other. both consulting and banking are elite jobs that require some of the criteria above. </p>
<p>scientists/engineers fight for the scraps in that other 1/3 against non-profit types, blatant wealthy types, accountants, corporate finance people, sales people, IT, teachers, astronauts, ex-military, professional football players, etc.</p>