Omolegho Udugbezi, Yale SOM’s MBA Class of 2023
Age: 26
Hometown: West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Imperial College London, Chemical Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 4 years, Goldman Sachs London
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I wanted to gain managerial skills and learn how to be a better leader. I chose to attend school now because I believe there is no time like the present!
Why did you choose Yale SOM? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose to join the Yale SOM community as the school’s social conscience and its commitment to championing diversity align perfectly with my personal values. It was important for me to attend a school where I could be authentically myself and I knew Yale would offer me that opportunity.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2023?
I care very deeply and I have been told I am incredibly empathetic – as such, I am able to look out for my classmates and ensure everyone is taking care of themselves and maintaining a healthy balance, as we go through this intense period together.
Tell us a fun fact that didn’t get included on your application:
My undergraduate classmates awarded me the ‘Best Hair’ prize at graduation.
Post-MBA career interests:
In the short term, I want to develop my strategy skills and become a better leader. In the long-term, I hope to apply my skills to make K-12 education more equitable and accessible through technology solutions.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
– What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Make time to speak to current students and alumni of the school ahead of applying. The best way to get a feel of a school is to connect with its community and have honest conversations.
– What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would spend less time worrying about my application after submission! Once you have sent off your application, there is nothing to do but wait, so worrying is not productive.
– What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Can I say the GMAT? GMAT preparation was intense, but I made it through by keeping focused on the big picture (your GMAT score won’t make or break your application) and leaning on my greatest support system – my parents – who made sure I didn’t neglect self-care throughout the process.
What is your initial impression of the Yale SOM students/culture/community?
My first impression of SOM’s culture was ‘as advertised.’ Students and faculty here are as passionate, brilliant and welcoming as I imagined. I leave every conversation I’ve had with someone new feeling inspired and having learnt something.
What is one thing you have learned about Yale SOM that has surprised you?
It’s an incredibly tight-knit and supportive community. Second-year MBA students are so generous and gracious with their time – they continue to make time for new students despite their busy schedules.
Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your personal application or admissions process in any way? If so, how?
Due to the pandemic, the admitted students’ Welcome Weekend was virtual this year, which meant I couldn’t visit campus until school started. However, the Admissions Committee did a fantastic job with the virtual format and I was able to start school having made a few friends already.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I’m worried about missing out on all business school and university has to offer. There is so much to do – from classes, to recruiting events, to clubs, to speaker sessions (to name a few) – that it isn’t possible to do it all, but I’m trying to say yes to everything once to ensure I make the most of my time here.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Giving back to my classmates – I am a member of Yale’s Graduate and Professional Students Senate, which means I get to represent SOM across the university. I am excited to fulfill my responsibilities in this role and help my classmates have an amazing experience.
