Kemi Badru, LBS MBA Class of 2021
Age: 30
Hometown: London
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University College London, BSc Biomedical Sciences
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 8, Financial Services
Why business school? Why now?
I have eight years of accounting experience and I want to transition into a commercial role. While I have enjoyed working in the finance team of very interesting companies and have learned a lot, accounting is largely backward-looking with limited impact on growth and little client engagement. An MBA would allow me to improve my business acumen and develop the frameworks and tools needed to pivot into strategic roles.
Why LBS? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
At the start of my business school search, I reflected on what I wanted to achieve. I wanted the space to experiment and reflect. I wanted to experiment with different roles, industries, and entrepreneurship. I also wanted the opportunity to reflect on my goals and motivations. All of these things required time and so I decided on a two-year program.
Furthermore, it was fundamental that I leave business school with a global perspective and the confidence to conduct business in any part of the world, so a school with an international mix and a strong global network was very important to me. I felt that LBS incorporated all of this and more; its location in London and its reputation within the business community will provide professional opportunities and access to prominent leaders in business and commerce.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
Given the low numbers of Brits in the class, I believe my experience working and living in the UK will be useful to my colleagues. I intend to use my accounting knowledge to help those not familiar with the subject.
My experiences and volunteering work have afforded me access to and insights into communities and positions of leadership that many attending business school would not have had. I hope this will furnish classroom discussions and contribute to the professional development of my classmates.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
After my undergraduate degree, I seriously considered becoming a farmer, so much so that I looked into getting a master’s degree in sustainable food and agriculture. I find the idea of growing tangible products, especially the food you eat, idyllic.
Post-MBA career interests?
I am interested in infrastructure, utilities, and finance. Their ability to drive economic and social growth is fascinating, so a role that allows me to contribute to these industries would be appealing.
I ultimately want a career that adds value not only to shareholders but also to society. We are on this planet for a short time, so it is imperative for me that I use my time and talent to make it a better place. I believe business and finance when deployed correctly can do this.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I interacted with the school on multiple occasions and through different channels. I attended information sessions, lectures, student-led conferences and I also spoke to current students and alumni.
These interactions allowed me to judge whether LBS was a good fit for me. I would encourage prospective students to engage with schools as much as possible. One or two years of your life in a school that you dislike would be a great disservice to yourself, so get to know the school and see if it is a good fit!
–One thing you would change or do differently?
I would have applied earlier.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
GMAT!
What is your initial impression of LBS’s students/culture/community?
Everyone has been so friendly and open. There is a strong desire to get to know people and to get involved both in and outside the classroom. Also, the experiences and accomplishments of my classmates are jaw-dropping, and has already started paying dividends.
For instance, when we had a case on a Peruvian conglomerate, we not only had Peruvians in the class, but also a former employee of the company profiled in the case. Needless to say, my Peruvian classmates’ insights brought the case to life!
One thing you have learned about LBS that has surprised you?
LBS prides itself in being a global university, so I expected it to be global, but I was stunned by just how global.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Balancing academic, social, and professional demands. All are important, so finding the balance between them will be difficult. I think frequent reflections will be vital so that I am constantly reminded of my priorities.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am looking forward to learning – learning in the classroom, but also practically though internships, discussions with classmates, international treks, and participation in student clubs. I cannot wait to see the personal and professional growth that will come as a result of the learning. I also look forward to getting to know my classmates; we are a big class full of intelligent and interesting people and I hope to make some lifelong friends.
