Okay, thanks! That gives me a little better idea of your candidacy.
I think your 3.1 overall GPA is indeed a bit low, but the fact that you have an explanation will help. (You'll probably use most schools' optional essays to touch on this. Just don't dwell on it too much.) The key for you now is to show that you: 1) are committed to taking your academics seriously in b-school, and 2) have the smarts to do well, which your GMAT and other things will help demonstrate.
It would be nice to see more community involvement in the present day. In the absence of that, you will want your letters of recommendation to emphasize your leadership skills and your desire/ability to make an impact on the organization around you. Also, think about other things about which you're passionate... Hobbies, sports, artistic pursuits, etc. Some of these things will help add depth to *who* you are, beyond just your normal "stats." These things matter a great deal in the admissions process.
Nothing about your profile tells me you'd be any more or less competitive at any specific top-ten school, although I do think you have a decent shot at getting into at least one of them. NYU/Columbia have obvious finance ties, but VC and PE firms don't do too much on-campus hiring at any schools. Your job search may be on your own, and you'll want to communicate in your application that you understand this (i.e., you're not naive about how tough it can be to get such a job).
Good luck!
Scott
_________________
Co-Author, Your MBA Game Plan