Faith Udobong, Chicago Booth MBA Class of 2025
Faith Udobong, Chicago Booth MBA Class of 2025Age: 25
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Rhodes College, Business w/ concentration in Finance and Accounting
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): Strategy Consulting Analyst, Accenture (<2 years); Business Development Associate, Key Capture Energy (<1 year); SEO Law Fellowship, Ropes & Gray (<6 months); Summer Law Clerk, Quinn Emanuel (<6 months)
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I made the decision to attend business school because I believe that the education is necessary for me to achieve my long-term career goals. The MBA program provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles, strategy, and leadership, which are essential skills in today’s competitive job market. I am convinced that this knowledge will not only open up new opportunities but also empower me to make a significant impact throughout my career.
As for the timing of my decision, I chose to pursue an MBA now for primarily practical reasons. I applied to MBA programs during the first year of my JD at UChicago Law. When I was admitted to Booth, it was a no-brainer as they have a 3-year JD/MBA program.
Why did you choose Chicago Booth? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
As mentioned, I am currently in the 3-year JD/MBA program. I decided fairly early in the JD application process that I wanted to get my MBA simultaneously and was only considering 3-year programs. However, I didn’t have a desire to go through the JD and MBA applications at the same time. With that, I structured my JD applications accordingly and applied to programs that allowed me to add on an MBA during the first year. Although it would have been possible to get an MBA from another institution while at UChicago Law, logistics wouldn’t have been in my favor. Getting into both schools was a dream come true, and I’m so grateful that my ambitions aligned with admissions’ vision.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the University of Chicago Booth School of Business Class of 2025?
My most valuable and differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025 is the intersectionality of my diverse background and experiences, which I believe bring a truly unique perspective to our cohort. I am a Nigerian, I am a woman and, I am an athlete. I have had the privilege of working in various industries, including financial services, government, energy, and law, gaining insights into the multifaceted challenges and opportunities each sector presents. This breadth of experience equips me with a holistic understanding of business dynamics that I am eager to share in both classroom discussions and collaborative projects.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included in your application:
A fun fact about me that didn’t make it into my application is my passion for car racing. I absolutely love the adrenaline rush and the precision required in competitive racing. However, everyday driving is the most grating experience.
Post-MBA career interests:
Following the completion of my MBA, I am enthusiastic about pursuing a career in private equity, specifically focusing on M&A (Merger and Acquisition) transactions
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I spent quite a bit of time and effort connecting with members of the Booth community. I highly encourage all applicants to find ways to get connected with the community. Booth provides so many opportunities to meet members of their community, and there are a ton of different touchpoints that you can make prior to starting your application that will truly help you decide whether this is the best institution for you. In every interaction I had with the Booth community, I learned something new. All of the current students and alumni want to see you thrive, and they truly take the time out to help anyone who asks.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Nothing! I am exactly where I want to be.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Essays. I find it very difficult to talk about myself in an essay format, but what helped me get through it was practice. I gave myself a long runway and probably rewrote my essays over ten times. I had someone I trust rip through them and edit them, which was very helpful.
What is your initial impression of the Chicago Booth students/culture/community?
My first interaction with Booth was through an employer who was an alumnus. He inspired me to be a part of the Booth community. After just one week of working for him, I thought, “I want to be trained at the same institution that trained him.” And that’s where my path to Booth started! The students, culture, and community exemplify that experience. Everyone I have met is incredibly accomplished and has such fascinating backgrounds.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
Although I got my degree in business, I received a quintessential liberal arts education. I’m a bit anxious about the quantitative aspects of classroom learning and I plan on applying myself accordingly.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about joining social clubs! It is always exciting to meet other people with similar interests.
