Olaoluwa Kolawole, ASU Carey MBA Class of 2023
Age: 28
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Covenant University, Nigeria. Major – Physics
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 6 years, Finance Industry
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Considering I graduated 8 years ago from College, I felt the need to go back to school to re-learn about business and global best practices. I also wanted to pivot my career to another industry and an MBA puts me on the right track to achieve that.
Why did you choose ASU Carey? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose W.P Carey because of the closely knit nature of the program. I wanted a small class size, so this was an important factor. I was also excited about being mentored during the program so the school’s Executive mentoring program was a hook for me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2023?
I come from a Sales/marketing background which requires adequate customer relationship management and fluid interpersonal skills. These are very important skills that will allow me to interact seamlessly with my cohorts in the program.
Tell us a fun fact that didn’t get included on your application:
I love to draw/paint!
Post-MBA career interests:
Consulting and Technology. Consulting, because it would allow me to become a subject matter expert in a variety of industries. It would also sharpen my problem-solving ability which is a vital skill irrespective of industry. Technology, because the tech space has evolved from being an industry to becoming an infrastructure that serves every other industry and its ever-changing dynamics makes it an exciting field to work.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
– What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would have put in my application at an earlier round to reduce the pressure of waiting.
– What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I should have applied for an MBA sooner. The skills being taught and the access to rich and diverse set of people will set you on flight to a world of no limits.
– What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I don’t think I would have skipped any part of the application process. I enjoyed every step of the journey.
What is your initial impression of ASU Carey’s students/culture/community?
It was even better than I imagined. The community makes you feel wanted and creates a platform for you to be the best version of yourself.
What is one thing you have learned about ASU Carey that has surprised you?
You have a huge community willing to help! All you have to do is ask.
Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your personal application or admissions process in any way? If so, how?
During lockdown phase in my home country, there was an initial logistics challenge in booking a test center and getting necessary application documents sent to ASU in time for application. But things got better when lockdowns were lifted.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Securing an internship
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m excited about meeting new people and developing life-long relationships.
