corporate development

Does anyone know people who have made entries into corp dev without the traditional banking or consulting experience? I really want to get into corporate M&A, but don't think IB hours or consulting travel is the life for me, and it seems that's the path to corp dev. What's out there and how do I get there?

Thanks!

Long time lurker, first post. I wanted to get your opinions on my current situation:

Interned at a BB this past summer but no offer. After full time recruiting, I have been offered a position at Sears Holdings as a Business Analyst, comp ~$75k all-in. From what I gathered the role would be as a generalist most likely in the business strategy group. How would exit ops into top-4 business school be from a similar position? Any general thoughts are also appreciated.

Also, do any of you know anyone who has done this program?

Can anyone explain the difference between business development and corporate development? Is there even a difference? Do different companies use different terms? I'm applying for jobs in both of these areas, and frankly the descriptions sound the same.