Femi Giwa, Tuck MBA Class of 2020
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Lagos State University College of Medicine; Medicine & Surgery
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 6-7 years; clinical medicine, health insurance, consulting.
Why business school? Why now?
I am here for the education, pedigree, professional development opportunities, and direct access to a preeminent business network.
Why Tuck? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
All of the elite MBA programs would help me fulfill my educational and career goals so I considered other, no less important, factors.
First, I wanted to attend a school where professors really want to be in the classroom as opposed to being in the classroom because the schedule suggests it is class time. (Many professors elsewhere would rather do their research than teach.) I also wanted to spend two years with accomplished people who are also humble.
Furthermore, I have always wanted to pursue the MBA away from the hustle and bustle that characterize major urban centers. If you examine the list of schools that truly meet these criteria, you may be left with just one choice: Tuck. Finally, I should note that there are not many top MBA programs that invest in their environments; Tuck is an overachiever in this regard and that more than appealed to me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2020?
First-hand knowledge of investing/economic opportunities, the environment of business, and healthcare delivery in an international setting such as Nigeria – an area that has received limited academic attention but has become increasingly important. This will create valuable knowledge transfer and experience sharing with other members of the Tuck community.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I am not the best when it comes to cooking, and someone familiar with the matter thinks if I even boil water, it will get burnt!
Post-MBA career interests?
M&A Investment Banking
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Start early; that gives you time to make mistakes and adjust as necessary.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
If you are switching careers, it might be helpful to spend the summer before school interning at a firm in the industry you are interested in. While not a deal breaker, it may make the difference between someone who has to explain why (s)he is interested in the industry under consideration and someone who does not have any exposure.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Coordinating references for multiple schools. I used previous employers and that added a layer of stress as I had to coordinate reference submissions over the phone. Again, starting early helped me.
What is your initial impression of Tuck’s students/culture/community?
Tuck is not just a carefully managed brand, it is a carefully managed community. The messaging is deliberate. I remember reading in my offer of admission a subtle phrase that placed the responsibility for maintaining the school’s culture on my shoulders – it was a moment for me. Upon arrival, I have observed numerous structures, including the attitudes of staff, which enable the culture it so cherishes. This is impressive because many institutions do not live the talk.
One thing you have learned about Tuck that has surprised you?
Tuck, Dartmouth, and the city of Hanover are more charming than I had thought!
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Finding the right balance between recruiting, academics, and social activities. The people here are genuine and amazing. I have to find the balance so I can make it to Murphy’s or wherever my classmate Molly “drags” us to more often.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Getting to know more about the members of the Tuck community—who they are, what makes them tick, where they are headed in life—and how I may be of support.
