Joanne Ngotho, London Business School’s MBA Class of 2027
Age: 27
Hometown: Nairobi, Kenya
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Pepperdine University, Finance
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Consulting, 3 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
For me, business school was a matter of when, not if. I’ve always identified as a lifelong learner, and I knew the MBA would eventually become part of my journey. After several years in consulting, the MBA felt like the perfect blend of career pivot and intellectual adventure. Additionally, the timing felt right: I had accumulated enough professional experience to contribute meaningfully in the classroom, yet I was eager to expand my toolkit and broaden my horizons before committing to the next big career move.
Why did you choose London Business School? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
LBS offers not just a degree, but a passport to perspectives from every corner of the globe. I wanted a program where my peers would challenge me not only with their professional expertise but also with perspectives shaped by different cultural, social, and economic contexts. Additionally, LBS is strategically located, in one of the most dynamic cities on the planet with a distinguished faculty that would broaden my classroom knowledge and business acumen.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I’d say my multicultural experiences. Having lived in several African countries, the U.S., and Europe, I’ve developed the ability to quickly adapt to different environments and connect with people from varied backgrounds. That lens shapes how I approach problem-solving and leadership. It also means I’m usually able to offer a different angle in a case discussion, or at the very least, a fun story from Nairobi, Wadi Rum or somewhere in between.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I enjoy running and I have run with Kenyan long-distance runner Eliud Kipchoge! Running with him was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. During the run, I was reminded that running, like leadership, is about bringing others along with you while constantly pushing yourself to be better than you were the day before.
Post-MBA career interests:
I’m deeply interested in the development sector, particularly at the intersection of business and social impact. I want to play a role in shaping sustainable growth and driving initiatives that create opportunities in emerging markets.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Starting early on my essays is something that I would absolutely do again and recommend to others. Beyond the application itself, it turned into a deeply valuable exercise in self-reflection. In our busy careers, we rarely stop to ask: What do I really want and why? Where am I heading? That reflection not only strengthened my application but also gave me clarity about my path forward.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would spend less energy obsessing during the waiting period. I caught myself replaying scenarios and nitpicking sentences I had already submitted. In reality, you’ve already put in the work and at that point, it’s out of your hands. So, I’d tell applicants: hit submit, breathe, and maybe take up a new sport or read / watch something that engages your mind, instead of spiraling.
What is your initial impression of the LBS students/culture/community?
In one word: diverse. Not just in nationality, but in thought, background, and ambition.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I’m excited about joining the African Business Club, Women in Business, Social Impact Club, and Run Club. They align perfectly with both my professional ambitions and personal interests. Plus, it’s a nice balance somewhere between building the future of sustainable growth and running as a way to show discipline and showing up for oneself.
What is one thing you have learned about LBS that has surprised you?
I was pleasantly surprised by the depth of career support. The workshops and one-on-one sessions go far beyond just polishing a CV; they’ve encouraged me to think deeply about my values, strengths, and what “fulfillment” really looks like in a career.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Going on an LBS Global Experience course and travelling with my classmates to new parts of the world. I am also excited about the classroom learning and hearing diverse perspectives from people sharing their experiences and thoughts about case studies.
