Taiwo Olukoya, Rotman MBA Class of 2024
Age: 32
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
Undergraduate Institution and Major: The Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria. Mechanical Engineering (BEng) University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Industrial & Production Engineering (MSc)
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 1 year, Construction Industry. 6 years, Consumer Packaged Goods (Alcoholic & Nonalcoholic Beverages)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?.
Working in operations for almost 6 years, I realized that I enjoyed solving problems and was good at making strategic decisions. This got me interested in a career in strategy/consulting. After some research, I decided that attending business school would be the best way for me to pivot into consulting as it would provide the tools required for me to succeed. Once I made that decision, I had my mind set on getting into the best business school for my needs as soon as possible.
Why did you choose Toronto Rotman? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
You learn a lot by interacting with people from different backgrounds, and I love meeting people whose life experiences are totally different from mine. Therefore, diversity was a big factor in my choice of business school. I also wanted a school with an emphasis on experiential learning and self-development. With Toronto being the most multicultural city in the world and Rotman being known for its academic rigor, diversity, and experiential learning, it was an obvious choice for me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2024?
I have spent the past five years managing large teams of men in a male-dominated industry. If there are any women looking to take leadership roles in male-dominated industries, I can give them a tip or two.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
If you ask me the meaning of my name, I will give you a long lecture on the naming practices of the Yoruba tribe (from southwestern Nigeria). A couple of my classmates have learned this the hard way.
I am also a big Harry Potter fan.
Post-MBA career interests:
I plan to pursue roles in consulting and technology
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Talk to as many current students and recent alumni as I possibly can. This gave me insight into the student experience and helped me prepare for my interview better.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have started writing my essays earlier. I had an idea of the story I wanted to tell for months but it was not until I put pen to paper that I gained clarity. Getting the first draft out is the hardest part. My final essay looked nothing like my first draft, and I probably edited it more than 10 times. But getting the first draft out was definitely the hardest.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
The timed video interviews. I was very nervous about this because I am not really good at recorded prompts. However, with a lot of practice, I was able to get through it.
What is your initial impression of the Toronto Rotman students/culture/community?
It is as I hope it would be. A community of smart and accomplished people with diverse backgrounds. The other day, I met someone who had been to over 30 countries. I feel like there are endless opportunities to learn.
What is one thing you have learned about Toronto Rotman that has surprised you?
How helpful everyone is. From students, staff and faculty, everyone is so willing to help. I thought I would have to figure out a lot of things on my own, being in a new country but there is help everywhere. You just need to ask.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Trying to find a balance between classes, social and networking events, and internship search.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited about meeting new people and learning from them.
