Peter Ezeaghaukwu, Texas McCombs MBA Class of 2027
Age: 26
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria.
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Nigeria. Accounting
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Investment and Strategy, Coronation Insurance plc. Audit and Assurance Associate, KPMG Professional Services Lagos, the past 5years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Growing up in Lagos and later working across finance and audit at KPMG, I saw firsthand how strategic decisions, good or bad shaped entire industries and communities. I have always been drawn to solving problems, but over time, I realized my work was often focused on analyzing the past rather than shaping the future. I wanted to move from crunching numbers to driving meaningful change, helping organizations make smarter, more sustainable decisions that create impact on scale.
That realization pushed me toward business school. I knew an MBA would give me the strategic toolkit, network, leadership exposure, and collaborative environment to transition into more strategic decision-making roles where I could combine my analytical background with a broader strategic lens. Now feels like the right time because I’ve gained enough professional experience to contribute meaningfully to classroom discussions while also being ready to grow, challenge myself, and redefine my career path toward long-term impact.
Why did you choose Texas McCombs? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Texas McCombs because it offered the perfect blend of academic rigor, community, and opportunity. From my very first interaction during the admissions process, I was struck by how genuinely warm, receptive, and supportive everyone was, from students and alumni to faculty and staff. The school’s extensive alumni network, exceptional faculty, and holistic curriculum aligned seamlessly with my professional goals and career growth.
I was also drawn to Austin’s dynamic business environment, welcoming culture, and warm weather, which felt familiar and comforting, much like home in Africa. Additionally, the city’s reasonable cost of living made McCombs an even more compelling choice. Altogether, McCombs stood out as a place where I could grow both professionally and personally while being part of a community that truly values connection and collaboration.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I bring a dynamic and authentic African perspective shaped by my experiences working in Nigeria’s financial sector across audit, credit risk, and investment. Growing up and building a career in a fast-changing and evolving market has taught me resilience, creativity, and the ability to find structure in uncertainty. I am excited to share that perspective with my classmates, bringing stories, insights, and lessons from Africa’s growing business landscape, while learning from their diverse experiences to build cross-cultural and global solutions together.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
A fun fact about me that didn’t make it into my application is that I love going the extra mile to learn new languages. Last summer, I taught myself enough French on Duolingo to confidently navigate the streets of Paris without getting lost and next on my list is Spanish, with my upcoming ‘Project Español’!
Post-MBA career interests:
Consulting and Corporate Finance
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Networking, I reached out to several McCombs students and alumni through admissions events and the school’s alumni network, and those chats were some of the most genuine conversations I had during my MBA search. Hearing their real stories about the supportive culture, collaborative spirit, and endless opportunities at McCombs made me feel an instant connection—and confirmed that this was where I truly belonged.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
If I could change one thing, I would have loved to attend the on-campus admission events, especially the McCombs Preview Weekend. Experiencing the energy of the community firsthand, engaging with current students and faculty, and immersing myself in the school’s culture would have given me a deeper sense of connection even before arriving. It would have also helped me build stronger early relationships and gain valuable insights into how best to navigate my MBA journey from day one.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I could skip one part of the journey, it would definitely be the visa application process. It was long, uncertain, and psychologically draining, especially with the pressure of timelines and documentation. What helped me get through it was sheer resilience and determination, I kept reminding myself of the bigger picture and the incredible opportunity that awaited at the end. Staying focused on my goal and leaning on the support of family, friends and the McCombs team made all the difference.
What is your initial impression of the Texas McCombs students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the Texas McCombs community has been nothing short of incredible. It’s a truly inclusive environment where everyone is recognized, valued, and celebrated regardless of their background. There’s also a genuine sense of warmth and openness which is a practical reflection of Southern hospitality, that makes you feel at home from day one.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
McCombs Admissions Committee, Graduate Consulting club, Black Graduate Business Association, McCombs Christian Fellowship.
What is one thing you have learned about Texas McCombs that has surprised you?
One thing that truly surprised me about Texas McCombs is just how deeply supportive and accessible the community is. I expected a collaborative culture, but I didn’t anticipate the genuine sense of openness that defines every interaction, from professors who readily make time to discuss ideas beyond class, to classmates and study group members who are always eager to help each other succeed. The faculty’s open-door policy isn’t just a phrase; it’s a lived experience. That level of connection and support has made the transition smoother and the learning experience far more enriching than I imagined.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about immersing myself in the collaborative learning experience, particularly through hands-on projects that bridge classroom concepts with real-world business challenges. I look forward to gaining new perspectives from classmates with diverse professional and cultural backgrounds, while also sharing insights from my own journey in finance and social impact work in Nigeria. Beyond academics, I am eager to explore Austin’s vibrant culture and build meaningful connections that will last well beyond the MBA.
