Chidera Ekeocha, Rochester Simon Business School MBA Class of 2027
Age: 31
Hometown: Ubomiri (Eastern Nigeria)
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Maryland, Baltimore County; Major: Biology Minor: Psychology
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Global Trade Management, G3 Canada, six years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Growing up, I was fascinated by the connection between products and consumer choices. I remember noticing that my mother owned several pairs of nearly identical black heels, which made me wonder why she favored that style above all others. That early curiosity about consumer decision-making stayed with me and grew into a passion for understanding how people connect with products and brands.
After building a career in global trade management, I decided it was time to strengthen my business and leadership skills in order to transition into marketing and brand management. An MBA offers the ideal structured learning environment to bridge my analytical background in biological sciences and psychology with advanced training in strategy, brand positioning, and consumer insights. Now is the right time because I have both the professional experience and the clarity of purpose to translate my passion into a career shaping impactful, consumer-centered brand strategies.
Why did you choose Rochester Simon? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
When selecting a business school, I prioritized three factors: analytical rigor, class size, and community. I sought a program that would challenge me to think critically—a hallmark of Simon’s analytically rigorous curriculum. Equally important was the school’s small class size, which fosters close connections with peers and professors and creates an environment where I could learn from others and contribute meaningfully. Finally, the strong sense of community and collaboration at Simon stood out to me. From my interactions with current students and alumni, it was clear that Simon fosters a supportive culture where people genuinely invest in one another’s success. These qualities made Simon the ideal place for me to grow academically, professionally, and personally.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I naturally ask thoughtful questions and challenge assumptions constructively, with the goal of helping my teams refine ideas and feel confident that our solutions will succeed in practice.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I make handmade candles—a passion project that began in my kitchen in the summer of 2022 and has since become a creative outlet where I experiment with scents, share them with friends and family, and even sold them at local farmers’ markets.
Post-MBA career interests:
I’m interested in brand and product management in the CPG space. I want to be in a role where I can use data and consumer insights to shape products, tell compelling brand stories, and ultimately influence how people connect with everyday goods. This path allows me to combine my analytical background with my enthusiasm for understanding consumer behavior.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would absolutely reach out to current students and alumni again. The best way to understand what an MBA experience might look like is to learn from those living it now or who have already been through it. The advice, perspectives, and encouragement I received were invaluable in shaping my decision-making.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I believe that everything works out eventually, so I don’t usually dwell on the past. However, if I could do one thing differently, it would be applying in the earlier rounds—being proactive and allowing extra time to plan your transition back to school is always advantageous.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it? Reflecting on my journey so far, I would not recommend skipping any part of it. Each step, even the challenging ones, has contributed to my growth and prepared me for a stronger future. Embracing the journey is what carried me through.
What is your initial impression of the Rochester Simon students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the Rochester Simon community is that it is incredibly supportive. Coming back to a structured learning environment after several years, I was naturally anxious. The team at Simon quickly bridged the gap and welcomed me, making my transition to life in Rochester much smoother.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I will be joining Simon Vision Consulting, Simon Data Analytics Club, Simon Marketing Association, and the Simon Africa Business Club. I chose the first two clubs to push myself out of my comfort zone and gain hands-on experience in new areas. One of my main goals in business school is to broaden my knowledge, and I believe that participating in clubs outside my previous experiences, or those not directly connected to my academic and professional background, is the best way to build that breadth of understanding.
What is one thing you have learned about Rochester Simon that has surprised you?
Perhaps, the most surprising thing I’ve heard about Simon so far is that classes continue no matter the weather—there are even tunnels connecting Simon to the main quad on-campus so you can get to Starbucks without going outside!
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
It’s hard to choose just one, but if I had to, I would say I’m most excited about the connections. Some of the people I’ve already met in the program are likely to become lifelong friends, and the value of those relationships cannot be overstated.
