Solape Oguntayo, HEC Paris MBA Class of 2022
Age: 32
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Covenant University/ BSc Economics
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 8 years of work experience in finance. 7 years Investment Banking experience mainly in M&A and Debt Capital Markets, 1 year in Infrastructure Finance for development.
Why business school? Why now?
I had no formal education in finance even though I had worked in the industry for a few years. Business school had always been part of my plan; it was just a matter of when. I also wanted an internationally diverse cohort where I could share my African perspective while also learning from others.
Why HEC? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose HEC Paris for the diversity of the MBA student profiles, the availability of an internationally recognized specialization in Finance, and the limited size of the class, which enables stronger connection with your classmates.
In addition, 16 months is just enough time to be in school and not away from the job market. The option of doing an internship, specialization, and an exchange programme all within that period was appealing.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
I am one out of two African women in the intake and also one out of the four MBA mums in our cohort. My background in investment banking and my understanding of the African markets can contribute to diversity of perspectives within our cohort.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I love crime shows and describe myself as a shoe collector. I once had over 200 pairs of shoes.
Post-MBA career interests?
Remain in the finance industry but explore opportunities in Investment Management for development, as well as sustainable financing.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would speak with alumni in similar post-career industries to understand their stories, experiences, and how the HEC platform helped them navigate into their post-MBA careers. I would, most definitely, make the effort to do this again.
One thing you would change or do differently?
Nothing. I can truly say for an application process, it was a straightforward and positive experience.
Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Taking the GMAT/GRE. Being away from formal education for so long, coupled with work and life commitments, meant that I was stretched thin preparing for the exam. I was, however, able to overcome it because I knew it was a step taking me to my destination. Having the support of my family while focusing on the end goal helped me get through it.
What is your initial impression of HEC’s students/culture/community?
Resourceful. There is nothing – and I mean nothing! – that you’re looking for or need to know that people in the community cannot provide an answer to or at least give options for solutions. It’s truly amazing. It’s always a humbling feeling to hear everyone’s experience and life journey. My intake is comprised of incredibly smart people who are always willing to share their knowledge; all you need to do is ask! Our professors are also very knowledgeable, and their teaching styles are mix of real work and fun – most engaging.
One thing you have learned about HEC that has surprised you?
I did not know HEC Paris was the school that so many Fortune 500 CEOs attended!
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Being able to take the best out of the system and platform while keeping up with everything – academics, networking, internship search, club activities – without having to sacrifice my sleep or health.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about forming stronger bonds with the interesting people I am privileged to meet and also gaining new skills and insights in areas that have been uncharted territory prior to now.
