Profile review & recommendation

Hi mbaMission,

I was hoping to get some insight into my application, and I have had a chance to review various message threads on the site.

I was hoping I could receive some insight into the potential of having my application accepted at one of the following MBA programs in Europe: 1. HEC Paris 2. INSEAD 3. IMD or any other suggestions for b-schools in France (near Paris).

GMAT: Will make first attempt in 10 days, scoring constantly over 700 on practice exams (roughly Q46 V41), I can definitely score 700-720 on actual test.

Education: BA in Criminology

Current Employment: 3 years in non-profit management, overseeing 3 full-time staff, 4 par-time staff, and over 500 volunteers with annual volunteer hours of nearly 10,000 hrs. Raise millions annually, and serve as the head of events, PR/Communications, and database. Was promoted within 6 months after attaining role, and serve as a senior manager at the organization.

Background: From Canada; lived in 4 continents; traveled to 30+ countries; worked post grad for 1 year in Africa starting a non-profit, and served as deputy executive director; worked post grad for six months within my university's international education department working on international collaboration and agreements prior to leaving for Africa; worked as senior research associate during university, in student government at all levels, serving on a dozen committees, fundraised nearly $100,000 to fund a housing project and led dozens of students, faculty and administrators on the ground during the project; initiated and ran multiple conferences at university; worked 4 years in family import/export company (small company, mainly exporting from china to Canada and Iran); do not speak French, but wife is French, and I can definitely pick up a language in 12-16 months as I can learn anything I put my mind to; willing to work anywhere in the world.

Undertaking an MBA in order to change industry, region, and role. Super intrigued in HEC Paris due to their Strategy specialization, and I know an alumni from INSEAD who speaks highly of the program. I excel at leading people, initiating change, and putting my vision into practice.

My specific location post MBA is Europe for at least 3-5 years, and ultimately back in Canada sometime in the future, as I am from Vancouver. I want to achieve a higher level of strategic approach, and would like to attain roles in one of the following areas: general management, consulting & corporate strategy, sales & operation, or finance (though corporate strategy is most in line with my interest).

I see that a lot of MBA programs are looking to have students with diverse education and career backgrounds, international work experience, and cultural awareness, and I feel that I fit the description.

Any advice that would allow me to increase my chances would be greatly appreciated. Planning on applying in the upcoming forth round.