chances after post-undergrad?

All,

I graduated May 2011 and found a job at a BB last March in a very analytical analyst mo role.

I've always wanted to do strategy consulting and had a few interviews, but wasn't able to break in. I took the BB position with the mindset that I would gain great experience and good exit opps.

After working here for less than a year, I've realized that this isn't the industry I want to work in (think market: credit/mortgage banking/etc.) and have started to set my sights back to consulting. I've started to study and network again.

How much harder is it to break into 2nd tier firms with analytical post-undergrad experience compared to still being in school? Would I have a better shot due to my work experience at a BB in these tough times compared to a fresh grad?

Also, do 2nd tier firms still higher in the Winter/Spring? I don't mind prepping and networking for a year to try again during on-cycle recruitment, but wanted an idea if there was any shot during the off-cycle.

Thanks in advance :)