I majored Japanese in college and graduate school in China. Worked as a manager in a multinational in China for over 1 year. That's it. I did do some volunteer job for some non-profits here in the US as my visa does not allow me to work.
I think how to angle your application is very important; then good reference letters, and your interview skills. I felt very comfortable with the interviewers. And because I am in the US, I went to the activities of these schools such as seminars and discussions, and everytime I spoke up. One word, do your homework.
As for FA application, I did nothing in particular, just as whatever required in the application.
My GMAT is only 700, and it is my second try. (Got 650 first time
). So the score is not very important.
My general impression is that because the school is going to market you after two years, you have to make them feel comfortable and confident about you. And a lot of schools says that when talking about interview. Try to establish some kind of rapport with your interviewer.
may I ask what financial package did you receive from UMD? I also got one of Dean's fellowship which provides full tuition plus 10k for the first year and an assistantship for the second year. What is yours?