Spurring Innovation, through International Business Education: Perspectives from Graduate School Students in the US

The transformative power of international business education, particularly MBA programs in the United States, cannot be overstated. For students from developing economies, such as Nigeria, this opportunity often serves as a catalyst for exponential career growth and personal development. We invited three ambitious Nigerian graduate students—Stanley Umeorah, Omolara Olaiya, and Oluwabusola Olagunju—to share their unique experiences, aspirations, and advice. Their stories underscore the value of pursuing graduate education abroad and the pivotal role that firms like TitanRConsulting LLC play in shaping these journeys.  

The Panelists 

• Stanley Umeorah: With experience in Big 4 consulting and banking, Stanley is currently pursuing his MBA at the University of Michigan. His goal is to enhance financial management and risk management in the financial services industry by integrating advanced technologies. 

• Omolara Olaiya: Omolara, an insurance professional and accountant, is pursuing a dual MBA and MS in Information Systems at Auburn University. She aims to transform financial technology and fund security through innovative solutions. 

• Oluwabusola Olagunju: A fashion entrepreneur turned project management enthusiast; Oluwabusola is completing a Master of Project Management at Northeastern University’s Roux Institute. She is committed to revolutionizing the fashion supply chain through technology and project management. 

Interview Highlights 

Q1: How has your internship experience shaped your understanding of your focus area from a global perspective? How does this align with your career aspirations? 

Stanley: My internship experience significantly enhanced my understanding of the global financial ecosystem, particularly the role of capital raising and M&A in driving innovation within the financial services industry. The projects I worked on underscored the strategic rationale behind capital markets transactions, including expanding geographic footprints, broadening product offerings, and acquiring critical technologies to improve operations, risk management, and client experience. This aligns seamlessly with my career aspirations in investment banking, where I aim to facilitate strategic partnerships and transactions that empower financial institutions to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving global market.

Omolara: During my internship in a business transformation role at Auburn University, I worked on several digital transformation projects. This experience broadened my perspective on how financial technology can streamline operations and secure funds more effectively. It has solidified my aspiration to become a leader in financial technology, addressing pressing challenges like fund security in Africa. 

Oluwabusola: My upcoming internship at a nonprofit organization will be an opportunity to apply project management principles to real-world challenges. While my background is in fashion, project management has given me a toolkit to scale operations and introduce efficiency. I aim to leverage these skills to position Nigerian fashion as a global powerhouse, supported by cutting-edge supply chain solutions. 

Q2: Resilience is a key factor in achieving success. Can you share how you’ve demonstrated resilience in your journey, and how innovation or AI has influenced your graduate experience? 

Stanley: Resilience is about adaptability. Transitioning from Nigeria to the U.S. required a mental shift, but my background in consulting prepared me for this. AI has been a game-changer in my field, offering predictive analytics that enhance risk management strategies. To stay ahead, I continually upskill myself to explore how machine learning technologies can be applied to refine operations and enhance financial management within financial institutions. 

Omolara: Balancing a dual degree program with internship demands has tested my resilience. However, it’s also been an incredibly rewarding experience. Innovation, particularly in fintech, is moving at a breakneck pace. I’ve embraced tools like blockchain and AI to understand their potential in creating secure and transparent financial systems. Staying curious and continuously learning are my superpowers. 

Oluwabusola: The fashion industry is dynamic, and pivoting to project management was a bold move for me. I faced doubts and challenges, but I’ve remained committed to my vision. AI has influenced my studies significantly, particularly in supply chain optimization. I’m learning how predictive analytics can streamline inventory and reduce costs—skills I intend to bring back to Nigeria’s fashion industry. 

Q3: What advice would you give prospective and current graduate students seeking to explore and pursue their dreams? 

Stanley: Dream big, but back your dreams with action. Identify your long-term goals and seek programs that align with those aspirations. Networking is equally important. Build relationships with peers, professors, and industry professionals—they are your gateway to global opportunities. 

Omolara: Believe in your potential. The journey will have its challenges, but each step is a learning opportunity. Leverage resources like career services and mentorship programs. Also, stay updated on emerging trends in your industry to ensure you remain relevant. 

Oluwabusola: Be fearless in redefining yourself. I transitioned from general fashion to fashion project management, and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made. Never let societal norms dictate your path. Pursue your passion with unwavering determination, and don’t be afraid to seek help when needed. 

Q4: How has being in the U.S. influenced your personal growth and professional development? 

Stanley: Studying in the U.S. has expanded my worldview. The exposure to diverse perspectives has enhanced my problem-solving skills. It’s also helped me develop a global mindset, which is crucial for achieving my career goals. 

Omolara: The academic rigor and access to cutting-edge technology have been transformative. I’ve also grown personally, becoming more confident in my ability to navigate complex challenges. This environment pushes you to be your best self. 

Oluwabusola: The U.S. offers a unique blend of academic and practical learning. I’ve gained hands-on experience in project management while honing my leadership skills. It’s been a journey of self-discovery and growth. 

Industry Specific Questions & Answer Session for the panelists

Q1. Career Vision and Long-Term Impact 

Risk management is a critical field in today’s volatile global economy. How do you envision redefining risk management practices to not only secure financial services but also create more sustainable and ethical financial ecosystems? 

Stanley: Risk management is not just about mitigating threats but anticipating and adapting to systemic changes. I aim to help firms integrate advanced data-driven predictive analytics and AI into their risk management frameworks and infrastructure. On the regulatory front, I aim to collaborate with regulatory bodies to address financial stability challenges, ensuring ethical considerations are at the forefront.

While at PwC Nigeria and BDO (UK) LLP, I led initiatives to enhance assurance practices by developing methodologies that addressed significant risks for high-risk clients, reducing risks to tolerable levels. Similarly, at UBA PLC, I played a pivotal role from the Group Finance perspective in overhauling the bank's credit risk management systems, including its expected credit loss model. These experiences have shown me that integrating innovative technologies and sound risk practices can strengthen financial institutions and build resilience and trust, particularly in underserved markets like sub-Saharan Africa, where financial stability is critical for economic development.

Fintech is rapidly evolving. As someone focused on fund security, how do you plan to bridge the technological and human gaps in financial systems, particularly in regions with limited access to advanced tech? 

Omolara: The fintech revolution has democratized financial services, but it has also exposed vulnerabilities. I see myself as a bridge between innovation and security, ensuring that technology serves its intended purpose. For example, my time at Leadway Pensure allowed me to work on integrating technology and AI solutions for secure pension fund transfers. This experience showed me the transformative power of technology when paired with human-centered design. My long-term goal is to use fintech innovations to create systems that work for everyone, both in developed economies like the United States and developing economies, particularly in regions like Nigeria where financial inclusion is still a challenge. 

The fashion industry is complex and deeply intertwined with supply chains. How do you see technology-driven project management transforming the fashion supply chain, and what legacy do you hope to leave in this space? 

Oluwabusola: The global fashion industry is on the cusp of major transformation, but its supply chain remains outdated and fragmented. My mission is to use technology-driven project management to bring efficiency and transparency to this process. At Northeastern, I’ve been taking courses that focus on technology project management, supply chain, data analytics, etc., which has tremendous application in the fashion industry for potential for real-time inventory management and reducing waste. I envision a future where African designers and manufacturers have equal access to global markets, supported by robust supply chain networks. 

Q2. Goals and Strategy for Achieving the Visions 

Your experience spans consulting, banking, and now risk management. How do you strategically leverage these experiences in your MBA program to ensure your post-MBA career goals are achieved? 

Stanley: The key to achieving my goals lies in building multidisciplinary expertise. My MBA at the University of Michigan allows me to take courses in strategy, data science, business management, and corporate finance, creating a holistic understanding of business operations and risk management challenges. I also make it a point to network with industry leaders through conferences and case competitions, where I test my ideas in real-world scenarios. Success for me is career advancement and being at the forefront of crafting safer financial systems globally.  

Balancing a dual degree program is no small feat. What unique strategies have you developed to integrate knowledge from both programs, and how does this integration help you approach fintech challenges innovatively? 

Omolara: I approach my dual degree as an opportunity to merge technical and strategic thinking. The MSIS program gives me the technical edge to develop fintech solutions, while the MBA hones my leadership skills to implement these solutions effectively. I also focus on practical exposure—I worked on a project in school with my peers where I initiated a pilot program for automated compliance checks, which improved audit efficiency by 40%. It’s about aligning every learning opportunity with my broader vision for change.

You’ve successfully evolved from general fashion entrepreneurship to fashion project management. How are you using your program at Northeastern to develop tools and frameworks to address inefficiencies in the global fashion supply chain? 

Oluwabusola: My strategy is simple: stay adaptable while focusing on the bigger picture. Fashion is unpredictable, so I leverage tools like agile project management to stay ahead. At Northeastern, I’ve joined a technology innovation lab where I collaborate with peers from different industries to design scalable solutions. I also attend fashion expos and connect with leaders who are revolutionizing the industry. My roadmap involves merging creativity with efficiency to build a truly global fashion brand. 

Q3. Navigating Challenges in Emerging Economies 

How has your understanding of challenges in Nigeria or other emerging economies shaped the way you approach problems in your graduate studies? Are there specific solutions or methodologies you’re working on that could address these challenges on a larger scale 

Stanley: Emerging economies face resource constraints, but that also creates opportunities for innovation. For example, limited data infrastructure in Nigeria pushes you to think creatively about solutions that are cost-effective yet impactful. 

Omolara: The biggest challenge is often a lack of trust in new technologies. My approach is to focus on education and transparency, ensuring that end-users see the value in these solutions. 

Oluwabusola: Supply chain inefficiencies are rampant in emerging economies. By using localized data and lean methodologies, I aim to create systems that work within these constraints.

Q4. Thought Leadership and Future Influence

Risk management is becoming increasingly digitized. What role do you see yourself playing as a thought leader in this field, and how do you plan to influence global financial systems? How does exposure to cutting-edge technologies and diverse perspectives in the U.S. position you to lead innovative initiatives in your chosen fields? 

Stanley: I aim to become a thought leader by contributing to academic and industry dialogues. I am committed to continuously publishing research articles and presenting insights at global industry forums to drive awareness and innovation in the field. Leadership is about sharing knowledge, inspiring action, and fostering collaboration. Exposure to cutting-edge technologies and diverse perspectives in the U.S. has broadened my understanding of global financial systems and equipped me with the tools to develop innovative solutions. By leveraging these experiences, I plan to influence global financial systems by advocating for data-driven predictive analytics, AI, and machine learning in financial management and risk frameworks, addressing systemic challenges while fostering trust and stability across diverse markets. I aim to bridge gaps between regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and technology providers to create resilient and forward-thinking financial ecosystems.

Fintech is at the forefront of modern finance. How do you envision your work setting new standards for secure financial technology, particularly for developed economies like the United States? 

Omolara: I envision creating a fintech hub in the United States that fosters innovation while addressing local needs. My focus is on making financial systems secure, accessible, and inclusive. Thought leadership, for me, involves building systems that outlast individual contributions

The fashion industry is ripe for innovation. What unique insights do you bring as a project manager with an entrepreneurial background, and how do you plan to disrupt traditional norms in global fashion supply chains? 

Oluwabusola: I want to redefine how people think about fashion supply chains by introducing scalable tech solutions. I see myself leading global conversations on sustainability and innovation in this space, inspiring others to think beyond traditional paradigms. 

Conclusion: Empowering Dreams through TitanRConsulting 

The stories of Stanley, Omolara, and Oluwabusola reflect the boundless opportunities that international graduate education offers. Their journeys are a testament to the transformative power of ambition, resilience, and education. It also shows the immersive value that International Students bring to the United States. Through the power of education and the extra-ordinary abilities of these students, they would be leveraging their backgrounds and knowledge to contribute immensely to the united states economy. 

At TitanRConsulting LLC, we specialize in guiding prospective students through every step of this life-changing journey. From coaching you on your admissions journey to preparing for interviews and navigating career opportunities, we are committed to your success. Let us help you turn your dreams into reality. 

Ready to start your journey? Visit us at www.titanrconsulting.com or email us at anu@titanrconsulting.com. Your dreams are valid, and we’re here to make them happen.