Making a Top MBA Run in 2 years programs, company, getting, instead, started

jawz

I'm trying to get a gameplan going to build my chances of getting accepted to a top-MBA program. I'm in Chicago so I'm aiming for Northwestern or UChicago. I've passed Level I and, instead of attempting Level II, opted to find a job. I started my job in April and they seem to have good ties to the top programs here since the company is headquartered in Chicago. I would appreciate some advice on what to get started on if I plan to apply in the next 2 years.

Volunteering? Extra Currics/Leadership Roles (what kind?)....Should I start focusing on GMAT now or take on Level II next June and then worry about GMAT....I was a semester away from graduating with a health degree and changed my major to finance. I have a slightly interesting story since I had to complete the business program (unfortunately from a state school) within about a year and a half. My story doesn't compare to those crazy people traveling abroad and creating a business in a poor country, but I guess it's better than nothing!