Eva Stewart, London Business School’s MBA Class of 2028
Age: 30
Hometown: Perth, Western Australia
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Bachelor of Science (Chiro)/Bachelor of Clinical Chiropractic, Murdoch University
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Mining Industry Australia – Managing Director, Australian Indigenous Group 2017-present
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I have wanted to complete my MBA for the past few years as I completed some short courses through the University of New South Wales and found it to be very valuable. In the past 12–18 months, my businesses reached a level of maturity where I could step back from day-to-day operations and focus on the bigger picture, so it felt like the right time.
Why did you choose London Business School? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose London Business School as I loved the emphasis on it being a truly international experience. The draw of being in such a vibrant city with so much to offer was also enticing. The opportunity to make connections in a range of industries all over the world was a leading factor in my decision to come to LBS.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2028?
I think my biggest point of difference is my path here. I studied healthcare, then broke into mining, a competitive and very male-dominated industry, as a young woman running my own business.
My main business is a civil earthworks contractor in the mining industry. We work with mining companies and larger contractors across the whole life of a mine, from exploration through to rehabilitation. Around it, we’ve built businesses in transport and logistics, and plant and equipment hire and maintenance.
Starting a business taught me more about myself and other people than I ever expected. I’ve learned how to manage relationships in very different settings and adapt when things change. I’ve also learned how hard it is! The pressure is immense, and staying calm under it matters for your team as much as for yourself. Competing against bigger, better-resourced companies has also made me careful about where every dollar goes, and taught me to pick myself up when things don’t go to plan.
I’m looking forward to bringing that hands-on experience into the classroom and learning from people who’ve come from completely different worlds.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’m an avid hiker and traveler and recently completed the Annapurna Base Camp trek in Nepal, as well as several hikes in Bhutan.
Post-MBA career interests:
I would like to have a career in executive leadership in the mining industry. As a young, Indigenous woman, I believe I can offer unique insight and serve as a role model for other people like me coming up through the industry or wanting to start their career.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Show vulnerability and be personal in your essays. This is an opportunity for you to express yourself and give the admissions team a chance to hear your story or opinion. This will make you stand out much more than trying to sound like you’ve got everything figured out already.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would give myself more time to do the GRE. I had been out of formal study for a while and so the process for that was quite stressful. Giving myself more time to ensure I could prepare would have made the application process smoother for me.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I’m not sure I would have skipped anything. I found the application process with LBS one of the best ones that I went through. The essay prompts were straightforward and gave you a good opportunity to tell your story. The subsequent interview process was well-communicated and supported.
What is your initial impression of the LBS students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the LBS culture is one of vibrancy, diversity and genuine willingness to see everyone succeed but also have fun doing it. There’s an emphasis on using this time to try new things or test yourself and it’s an aspect I’m really enjoying.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I have joined the Entrepreneurship club, Women in Business club and the Expedition clubs so far! Entrepreneurship and Women in Business (WiB) were a no-brainer for me as I wanted to be surrounded by like-minded people across the cohorts. I think the leadership and networking opportunities in the WiB club are also great. I’ve joined the Expedition club as the trips look incredible, and doing them with new friends would be something I’d cherish forever.
What is one thing you have learned about LBS that has surprised you?
I knew it was a diverse cohort and faculty before joining but I don’t think anything prepares you for how international and culturally diverse it really is. I’ve met people from countries I’d never had the chance to visit or connect with before and I’m proud to say many of them are now considered friends. Listening to their stories has been a real honour and highlight.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m excited about getting to know everyone in my first year and learning from their experience across different industries and countries.
