Transforming Careers Through International Business Education: A Panel Interview with Four MBA Alumni

In today's global economy, an MBA from a prestigious institution in the United States can be a game-changer, especially for students from developing economies in Asia and Africa. These programs offer more than just academic knowledge; they provide a platform for networking, career advancement, and personal growth. In this panel interview by Tomilola Abiodun, the Founder and Principal Consultant at TitanRConsulting, we explore the transformative journeys of four MBA alumni: Bibitayo Abikoye (Cornell, 2023), Praveen Kumar (Ohio State, 2019), Olaoluwa Kolawole (Arizona State, 2023), and Adeoluwa Babatope (Washington University, 2022). Through their stories, we aim to inspire prospective candidates and validate their dreams of pursuing higher education abroad.

Tomilola: Thank you for granting this interview, everyone, To start, could each of you briefly introduce yourselves and share what motivated you to pursue an MBA in the United States?

Bibitayo Abikoye: Thank you, Tomilola. I'm Bibitayo Abikoye, originally from Nigeria. I have a background in finance, having worked in banking and financial advisory roles with the Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigeria's apex monetary authority. My decision to pursue an MBA at Cornell was driven by my desire to enhance my leadership skills and expand my global network. Cornell's emphasis on leadership and innovation really appealed to me.

Olaoluwa Kolawole: Hi, I'm Olaoluwa Kolawole from Nigeria. Before my MBA, I worked in engineering and finance. I chose Arizona State's W.P. Carey School of Business because of its strong focus on experiential learning and its extensive network of corporate partners. I wanted to transition into a strategic consulting role and felt an MBA would provide the necessary skills and opportunities.

Praveen Kumar: Hello, I'm Praveen Kumar from India. My passion for technology and entrepreneurship led me to pursue an MBA at Ohi State University. The program's focus on innovation and practical learning experiences was a perfect fit for my career goals. I wanted to leverage my technical background in a business context and drive growth in the tech industry.

Adeoluwa Babatope: Hi, I'm Adeoluwa Babatope, also from Nigeria. I have a background in technology and finance. I decided to pursue an MBA in the United States to gain global exposure and expand my professional network. The MBA program has been transformative, providing me the skills and opportunities to pursue entrepreneurial ventures and drive innovation in the EdTech sector.

Tomilola: Thank you all for sharing your motivations. Bibitayo, could you elaborate on how your experience at Cornell shaped your career trajectory?

Bibitayo Abikoye: Cornell provided a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The diverse cohort allowed me to learn from peers with varied perspectives, which was invaluable. Additionally, the alum network and career services were instrumental in securing internships and job offers. The MBA program honed my business acumen and boosted my confidence to take on leadership roles. Currently, I work as a finance manager at Amazon, a leading multinational technology corporation, developing and implementing strategic initiatives to drive business growth.

Tomilola: What does your current role as a finance manager involve, and how are you leveraging your MBA skills in this position?

Bibitayo Abikoye: In my current role, I am responsible for developing and implementing strategic initiatives that drive business growth. This involves market analysis, competitive benchmarking, and identifying new business opportunities. The analytical and problem-solving skills I gained during my MBA are crucial in this role. Additionally, the leadership training has equipped me to lead cross-functional teams effectively and drive organizational change.

Tomilola: How do you see your career evolving in the next five to ten years, and what role will your MBA play in that journey?

Bibitayo Abikoye: I see myself taking on more senior leadership roles and possibly moving into the C-suite in the next five to ten years. The MBA has provided a strong foundation for this trajectory by equipping me with a comprehensive understanding of business management and a robust professional network. The continuous learning and adaptability fostered during the MBA program will be vital to navigating future challenges and opportunities.

Tomilola: Olaoluwa, how did the MBA program at Arizona State University help you in terms of career advancement?

Olaoluwa Kolawole: The focus on real-world applications at Arizona State was crucial. We had numerous opportunities to work on projects with companies, which helped me understand the intricacies of global business operations. This exposure was instrumental in securing a role with a top consulting firm. As a senior consultant, I advise clients on strategic initiatives, process improvements, and digital transformations. The analytical and strategic thinking skills I developed during my MBA are essential in my role.

Tomilola: Could you highlight a memorable experience from your time at Arizona State University that significantly impacted your career?

Olaoluwa Kolawole: One standout experience was participating in a global consulting practicum. We worked with a tech startup in Germany, helping them develop a market entry strategy for the US. This project not only broadened my understanding of international markets but also strengthened my problem-solving and teamwork skills. The experience was highly rewarding and significantly impacted my career progression.

Tomilola: What is your current role, and how are you applying the skills from your MBA in your job?

Olaoluwa Kolawole : Currently, I am a senior consultant at EY_P, a global consulting firm. My role involves advising clients on strategic initiatives, Mergers & Acquisitions, Divestitures, process improvements, and digital transformations.The analytical and strategic skills I developed during my MBA are essential in this role. Additionally, the ability to workeffectively in diverse teams and manage complex projects has been invaluable.

Tomilola: How do you see the consulting industry evolving, and how are you preparing yourself for future trends?

Olaoluwa Kolawole: The consulting industry is becoming increasingly data-driven and technology-focused. I am continually updating my skills in areas like data analytics, AI, financial modeling, and digital transformation to stay ahead. The MBA program instilled a mindset of continuous learning, which is crucial for adapting to industry changes and driving innovation for my clients.

Tomilola: What advice would you give prospective MBA students from developing economies who aspire to work in consulting?

Olaoluwa Kolawole: My advice would be to focus on building a strong foundation in both technical and soft skills.Consulting requires a blend of analytical capabilities and interpersonal skills. Additionally, take advantage of networking opportunities and internships during your MBA. These experiences provide practical insights and can open doors to various career opportunities.

Tomilola: Praveen, can you share a specific project during your MBA that had a significant impact on your career?

Praveen Kumar: One of the most impactful experiences was a project where we developed a go-to-market strategy for a new tech product. We conducted market research, created business models, and presented our findings to senior executives. This project not only enhanced my strategic thinking skills but also led to a job offer from the company we worked with. Today, I serve as a technical product manager at a leading tech company, where I oversee Supply Chain optimization technology and strategy.

Tomilola: What is your current role, and how are you leveraging your MBA skills in this position?

Praveen Kumar: I currently serve as a product manager at Amazon, a leading tech company. My responsibilities include overseeing product development, supply chain optimization, cross- functional team management, and driving the product strategy. The strategic planning and leadership skills I gained during my MBA are crucial in this role. Additionally, the network I built at Ohio State continues to be a valuable resource for collaboration and mentorship.

Tomilola: How do you stay updated with the rapid changes in the tech industry, and what role does your MBA network play in this?

Praveen Kumar: Staying updated in the tech industry requires continuous learning and staying connected with industry trends. I regularly attend tech conferences, participate in webinars, and engage with my professional network. The MBA network I built at Ohio State continues to be a valuable resource for insights and collaboration. This network is an invaluable asset for staying ahead in the tech field.

Tomilola: How has the emergence of AI impacted your role, and how do you see it shaping the future of your industry?

Praveen Kumar: AI is at the core of product development in the tech industry. It allows us to create smarter, more efficient products and improve user experiences. As a technical product manager, AI helps us understand user behavior, predict market trends, and optimize product performance. The future of tech will be heavily influenced by AI, with advancements in machine learning, natural language processing, and automation driving innovations and business models.

Tomilola: What advice would you give aspiring tech professionals from developing economies considering an MBA in the US?

Praveen Kumar: Be open to learning and networking opportunities. The tech industry is dynamic, and having a diverse skill set and network can significantly enhance your career prospects. Focus on developing both technical and business skills during your MBA. This combination will prepare you to take on leadership roles and drive innovation in the tech industry.

Tomilola: Adeoluwa, what does your role as a co-founder of an EdTech company involve, and how has your MBA prepared you for this position?

Adeoluwa Babatope: As a co-founder, I oversee various aspects of the business, including strategy, operations, and finance. My MBA provided a solid understanding of business fundamentals and strategic insights needed to drive growth. The leadership training and practical experiences during my MBA have been invaluable in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Innovation and agility are key in the EdTech industry, and we prioritize staying ahead of market trends and continuously investing in Technology and talent.

Tomilola: How do you ensure your EdTech company remains competitive and innovative in a rapidly evolving industry?

Adeoluwa Babatope: Innovation and agility are key in the fintech industry. We prioritize staying ahead of market trends and continuously investing in technology and talent. My MBA network is also a valuable resource for insights and collaboration. By fostering a culture of innovation and leveraging our network, we can stay competitive and deliver value to our customers.

Tomilola: Can you share a challenging experience or failure during your MBA journey and how you overcame it? What did you learn from it?

Adeoluwa Babatope: One of the toughest challenges was pitching our startup idea to potential investors and facing rejection. It was disheartening, but we used the feedback constructively to refine our pitch and business strategy. The experience taught me resilience and the importance of persistence in the entrepreneurial journey. It also highlighted the need to iterate and improve continuously based on feedback.

Tomilola: How has the emergence of AI influenced your role and the fintech industry as a whole?

Adeoluwa Babatope: AI is revolutionizing the fintech industry by enhancing educational services and improving customer experiences. We use AI to detect fraud, personalize financial advice, and streamline operations. As an EdTech company, leveraging AI enables us to offer innovative solutions that meet our customers' evolving needs. In the future, AI will continue to drive advancements in financial Technology, making services more accessible, efficient, and secure.

Tomilola: How do you see your career evolving in the next five to ten years, and what role do you think your MBA willplay in that journey?

Adeoluwa Babatope: In the next decade, I aim to expand my EdTech company globally and make significant strides in education inclusion. The MBA has been a critical factor in shaping my entrepreneurial journey, providing the strategic insights and leadership skills needed to drive growth. The connections and resources from my MBA program will continue to be instrumental as we scale and innovate in the EdTech space.

Tomilola: What advice would you give aspiring entrepreneurs from developing economies considering an MBA?

Adeoluwa Babatope: Embrace the MBA experience fully. Take advantage of the learning opportunities, network extensively, and be open to new ideas. The skills and connections you build during your MBA can be a game-changer for your entrepreneurial journey. Focus on developing a global mindset and understanding diverse markets, as this can open up new opportunities for your business.

Tomilola: Resilience is often cited as a crucial trait for success. How has resilience played a role in your career, and can you share an instance where it made a difference?

Bibitayo Abikoye: Resilience has been a cornerstone of my career, especially during challenging times. One particular instance was during my first year at Cornell. The coursework was intense, and balancing it with networking and job hunting was overwhelming. I faced a few rejections from internships, which was disheartening. However, I remained persistent, sought feedback, and continuously improved my approach. Eventually, I secured a full-time offer at a leading technology firm, which reinforced the importance of resilience and the power of perseverance.

Olaoluwa Kolawole: Resilience has been critical in navigating the ups and downs of my career. During my MBA, I faced a setback when our team project received critical feedback just days before a major presentation. We were initially demoralized, but we decided to regroup, analyze the feedback, and make necessary adjustments. The presentation turned out to be a success, and we even won accolades for our efforts. This experience taught me that resilience is about bouncing back stronger and using setbacks as opportunities for growth.

Praveen Kumar: Resilience has been vital in my journey, particularly in the fast-paced tech industry. There was a time during my MBA when a product I was developing faced significant technical challenges. It seemed like everything was falling apart, and we were on the brink of abandoning the project. However, I persisted, rallied my team, and sought help from mentors. We eventually overcame the hurdles and delivered a successful product. This experience taught me that resilience is about pushing through challenges and finding solutions, no matter how difficult the situation.

Adeoluwa Babatope: In entrepreneurship, resilience is essential. One of the toughest moments was when a key investor pulled out of our funding round at the last minute. It was a major setback, and it felt like our dreams were shattering. However, I didn't give up. I reached out to my MBA network, reworked our pitch, and continued to engage with potential investors. Eventually, we secured the necessary funding and even found a better strategic partner. This experience reinforced that resilience is about staying focused, being adaptable, and never giving up, even when faced with significant obstacles.

Tomilola: How do you continuously evolve yourselves to stay at the top of your fields, and what role does innovation play in your career?

Bibitayo Abikoye: Continuous evolution is critical in today's dynamic business environment. I regularly engage in professional development courses, attend industry conferences, and read extensively on the latest trends and best practices. Innovation plays a crucial role in my career, particularly in developing and implementing strategic initiatives. By staying updated with the latest tools and methodologies, I can drive business growth and maintain a competitive edge.My MBA instilled a mindset of lifelong learning, which has been invaluable in my continuous evolution.

Olaoluwa Kolawole: Staying at the top requires a commitment to continuous learning and adaptability. I make it a point to participate in advanced training programs, earn relevant certifications, and stay connected with industry experts. Innovation is central to my role in consulting, as clients expect cutting-edge solutions to complex problems. By staying abreast of technological advancements and innovative practices, I can provide valuable insights and drive impactful change for my clients. The MBA program emphasized the importance of innovation and continuous improvement, which I carry forward in my career.

Praveen Kumar: In the tech industry, staying relevant requires constant evolution. I invest time learning new programming languages, exploring emerging technologies, and engaging with the tech community. Innovation is at the heart of product management, where developing creative solutions and staying ahead of market trends is essential. My MBA provided a strong foundation in innovative thinking, and I continue to build on that through continuous learning and experimentation. Collaborating with a network of innovators and thought leaders also helps me stay at the forefront of the industry.

Adeoluwa Babatope: Continuous evolution is crucial in the rapidly changing fintech industry. I stay updated by attending industry workshops, participating in webinars, and engaging in peer learning. Innovation drives our business strategy, as we strive to offer cutting-edge financial solutions to our customers. By fostering a culture of innovation within our company and leveraging the latest technologies, we can stay competitive and meet the evolving needs of our clients. The MBA program taught me the importance of staying adaptable and embracing change, which has been fundamental in my career growth.

Tomilola: How has the AI revolution influenced your roles, and what future innovations do you foresee in your industries?

Bibitayo Abikoye: AI has been a game-changer in strategic management. It allows us to analyze large datasets quickly and derive actionable insights that drive decision-making. In my role, AI helps us predict market trends, optimize operations, and improve customer experiences. Looking ahead, I foresee AI playing an even more significant role in automating routine tasks, enhancing strategic planning, and driving personalized marketing strategies. The continuous advancements in AI will open new avenues for innovation and efficiency in business operations.

Olaoluwa Kolawole : AI has significantly enhanced our consulting capabilities by providing powerful tools for data analysis and predictive modeling. It enables us to deliver more accurate and data-driven recommendations to our clients. In the future, I see AI transforming consulting by enabling real-time decision-making, enhancing client interactions through AI-powered tools, and driving innovation in business strategies. The integration of AI with other emerging technologies like blockchain and IoT will further revolutionize the consulting landscape.

Praveen Kumar: AI is at the core of product development in the tech and supply chain industry. It allows us to create smarter, more efficient products and improve user experiences. AI helps us understand user behavior, predict market trends, forecast inventory, and optimize product performance. In the future, AI advancements in machine learning, natural language processing, and automation will drive innovations and business models. The continuous evolution of AI technology will enable us to develop more intuitive and user-friendly products, enhancing customer satisfaction and driving business growth.

Adeoluwa Babatope: AI is revolutionizing the fintech industry by enhancing financial services and improving customer experiences. We use AI to detect fraud, personalize financial advice, and streamline operations. In the future, AI will continue to drive advancements in financial Technology, making services more accessible, efficient, and secure. Innovations in AI will enable us to offer more personalized and predictive financial solutions, enhancing customer engagement and loyalty. The continuous integration of AI into fintech will transform the industry, driving innovation and growth.

Tomilola: How do you all balance your professional and personal lives, and how has your MBA helped in this regard?

Bibitayo Abikoye: Balancing professional and personal life is challenging, but the MBA taught me valuable time management and prioritization skills. Setting clear boundaries and making time for self-care and family are essential. The support network I built during my MBA also helps, as we share advice and strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Additionally, the leadership and resilience skills developed during the MBA have been instrumental in managing stress and maintaining a balanced life.

Olaoluwa Kolawole: The MBA experience helped me develop better organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities. It's important to set realistic goals and delegate tasks when possible. Staying connected with friends and family and pursuing hobbies also helps maintain a balance. The MBA network is a great source of support and encouragement in this regard. Moreover, the emphasis on holistic development during the MBA program has helped me maintain a healthy work-life balance and prioritize well-being.

Praveen Kumar: Balancing work and personal life requires discipline and effective time management. The MBA program emphasized the importance of holistic development, and I carry that forward in my career. Regularly scheduling time for family, exercise, and relaxation is crucial. The MBA network provides a community of like-minded individuals who understand these challenges and offer valuable support. The resilience and adaptability skills developed during the MBA have also been crucial in managing the demands of a dynamic career and personal life.

Adeoluwa Babatope: Entrepreneurship can be demanding, but the MBA taught me to prioritize and manage time effectively. Setting boundaries and making time for personal interests and family is essential. The leadership and resilience skills I developed during my MBA helped me navigate the pressures of running a business while maintaining a fulfilling personal life. The MBA network also offers a supportive community that understands the unique challenges of entrepreneurship and provides valuable advice and encouragement.

Tomilola: Thank you all for sharing your experiences and insights. Your journeys highlight the transformative power of an MBA and the immense value of international business education. For prospective candidates, your stories demonstrate that with determination, hard work, and the right educational platform, they can achieve their dreams and substantially impact their fields.

CONCLUSION

The experiences of Bibitayo, Praveen, Olaoluwa, and Adeoluwa underscore the transformative power of an MBA from a top U.S. business school. These programs offer more than just academic knowledge; they provide a platform for practical learning, networking, and personal growth. An MBA can catalyze significant career advancement and global opportunities for students from developing economies in Asia and Africa.

At Titan R Consulting, we are dedicated to supporting prospective graduate students on their journey to securing admissions to top business schools. Our comprehensive educational consulting services are designed to help students navigate the complex application process, from selecting the right programs to crafting compelling personal statements and preparing for interviews. We provide personalized guidance and resources to ensure our clients present their best selves to admissions committees.

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Reach out to us through our website at www.titanrconsulting.com or email us at anu@titanrconsulting.com to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your academic and career goals. Our commitment is to empower you to realize your potential and transform your future through the power of education.