The key in terms of your goals and your career, is to be able to build a strong case for
your goals, based at least in part on your career. It’s not just a matter of what companies and positions are on your resume, but what you have to say about them, and your insights and learning gained that are relevant for your goals. Also, whatever your company or function, to be competitive at your programs of interest, your career trajectory must be strong – you should stand out as a top performer with big impact compared to accomplished peers.
Another factor adcoms consider vis-à-vis your goals is how marketable you will be for your target position(s), and whether it’s realistic. So whichever path you choose in the immediate term, think about how it will prepare you for your future goals – and how you can make this case to the adcoms.
Most likely your decision should be a combination of these two factors. But the first is essential – you need a strong work track record to be competitive at the top programs.
_________________