Jennifer Agenmonmen, Texas McCombs MBA Class of 2022
Age: 27
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Ajayi Crowther University, Economics
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 6, Finance/Technology
Why business school? Why now?
Growing up in Nigeria, I felt we did not have enough knowledgeable leaders to challenge the status quo and government policies. I have wanted to go to business school since I was 16. My undergrad and work experience have been a journey to answer “Why not?” “Could I be the leader I envisioned without business school?” Over the last two years, my why has become more assertive; I was getting into a phase in my career where I’ll need to manage people and be responsible for more significant decisions, and I did not want to go in unprepared. I’m glad I said Yes to business school. I am learning the technical skills required to understand business and leadership and becoming a better well-rounded person in the process.
Why Texas McCombs? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
At the top of my MBA decision list was the people. I had known Texas McCombs from afar, I really got experience the school while attending the Women’s Weekend in 2018. The event opened the door for me to meet students and faculty of the school on different occasions. The theme remained the same, everybody had the genuine desire to help me succeed, proactively giving me insights to make the best decision.
Second on my list was academic culture. Texas McCombs prides itself on Experiential Learning. I wanted to be at a school where my classmates were collaborators and I could get my hands in the mix applying theory from class to real-life experiences at the same time. Texas has a robust list of career-focused fellowships, industry centered clubs, and lifestyle experience opportunities. I was excited about joining Board fellows and learning on the MBA+ project.
In the heart of it, the location was also big for me. I love the Sun and active city life, similar to my hometown. Lucky for me, I already lived in Austin and had fallen in love with it. Austin being a growing tech hub also gave it many pluses.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2022?
The Class of 2022 is uniquely diverse. Although we are on this journey together, it’s impressive to see almost any combination of background, interests, and lifestyle in my class. For me, especially, I am a career enhancer, looking to pursue Corporate Finance in the Technology industry. This means I’m likely one of the few members of the Graduate Finance Association that’s not interested in IB/VC/PE. Also, most likely, the only member of the Tech Club interested in Finance. I used to be anxious about it because I felt that I did not have a direct playbook. Now, my uniqueness is my superpower; I have channeled this as my value prop – I am creating THE playbook on navigating this exciting intersectionality. Coupled with the fact that I’m a mom – if I can do it, so can you!
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I love to cook! Specifically, I love to marry flavors from different cultures and make them into a meal. I make Nigerian food inspired by Asian sauces, Mexican spices, American staples, and so much more. I absolutely love trying new food and recipes.
Post-MBA career interests?
Corporate finance or operations management in the technology industry.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Speak to multiple students, attend school events and info sessions to really know the school.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Not spend so much time “thinking” about applying but take action instead.
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The GMAT. I stopped being afraid of it and enlisted support to get through it confidently.
What is your initial impression of Texas McCombs’ students/culture/community?
Supportive and inclusive.
One thing you have learned about Texas McCombs that has surprised you?
Texas McCombs’ strong commitment and action to foster diversity
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Securing the right internship
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Meeting amazing people and learning from them.
