Ibukunoluwa Martins, Washington University Olin’s MBA Class of 2025
Ibukunoluwa Martins, Washington University Olin’s MBA Class of 2025Age: 29
Hometown: Abuja, Nigeria.
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University: Covenant University, Major: Information and Communication Engineering.
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): Prior to business school, I worked as a Marketing Director and co-founder for FitandPro Sports Management, a sports apparel brand for a span of 5 years. Prior to this role, I worked as a Program Manager for ATVFZC (enspire), a Science and Tech Park for tech startups in Nigeria.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
As an entrepreneur, I decided to attend business school to venture beyond my Nigerian roots and gain a global perspective of businesses. My goal is simple: create sustainable companies that tackle Africa’s challenges head-on. That’s why I set my sights on WashU Olin.
I also want to strengthen my leadership skills and better gain an understanding of being a successful leader with a global perspective. I decided business school was an effective way to explore these interests while expanding my network and building relationships with highly talented peers.
Why did you choose Washington Olin? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Washington University in St. Louis, Olin Business School for a variety of compelling reasons. Firstly, I was drawn to its entrepreneurship community and the abundance of resources available. The fact that entrepreneurship is deeply ingrained in WashU’s core values immediately caught my attention.
One of the standout features that piqued my interest is the Global Immersion Program offered by Olin. This program would give every MBA candidate global business perspective and experience across continents. We get to travel to 3 locations (Washington DC, Barcelona, and Singapore).
Additionally, WashU Olin’s MBA program is known for its smaller, more intimate class size and a diverse cohort from different parts of the world. This is particularly meaningful to me because it will afford me the chance to build close relationships with all my classmates and enjoy easy access to the professors.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the WashU Olin MBA Class of 2025?
My most valuable and differentiating contribution to the Class of 2025 lies in my diverse and compelling range of experiences. With an undergraduate degree in Engineering, I bring a strong foundation in analytical thinking and problem-solving to the program.
What truly sets me apart is my entrepreneurial journey as a co-founder of a sports apparel brand. This experience has equipped me with invaluable skills and experiences in innovation, and the ability to navigate the challenges of establishing and running a business. I’ve learned to be adaptable, creative, and resilient in the face of uncertainty and competition.
Additionally, my background in the startup and tech sector has given me a deep understanding of the fast-paced, ever-evolving nature of these industries. I’ve worked on cutting-edge technologies, collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, and honed my project management and communication skills.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I play the drum sets relatively well. I still roll and play very actively.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
The MBA application process serves as a valuable opportunity for self-reflection, a moment to rekindle one’s dreams and reevaluate personal goals. Staying authentic to yourself throughout the application is paramount. The schools who value your background and story would be interested in your candidacy. Equally important is having a well-thought-out plan, both prior to embarking on the MBA journey and during, and a clear vision for what follows. While these plans may evolve, they serve as a roadmap, a crucial guide to navigate the often-overwhelming terrain of business school.
-What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
One thing I would do again as part of my application process is proactively reaching out to current MBA candidates in different programs. I spoke with them to gain insights into the program culture and to assess if it would be a good fit for me. Additionally, attending information sessions and asking questions about lecture styles helped me make an informed decision. This approach was instrumental in ensuring I selected the right MBA program for my goals.
-What is one thing you would change or do differently?
In hindsight, if I were to approach things differently, I would prioritize familiarizing myself with accounting and finance courses. Specifically, I would have taken the MBAMath program earlier and approached it with a greater level of seriousness. This proactive step would have provided me with a more solid foundation in these critical areas, enhancing my readiness and performance in the MBA program.
-What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
If I had the choice, I would have skipped the essay writing part of the application process. It was a tedious and time-consuming endeavor, requiring multiple rounds of rewriting and editing to reach a point of satisfaction. However, what helped me get through it was seeking feedback from peers, mentors, and even professional editing services. Their insights and suggestions proved invaluable in refining my essays and ultimately achieving the level of quality and clarity I aimed for.
What is your initial impression of the Washington Olin students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the Washington University Olin community was highly favorable. The warmth and friendliness of the students and the overall culture were impressive. It made my transition into the community much smoother and more comfortable than I initially anticipated.
What is one thing you have learned about Washington Olin that has surprised you?
One surprising aspect of Washington University Olin that I’ve discovered is the extensive range of activities and opportunities available. The sheer variety of options can be overwhelming, but it showcases the school’s dedication to offering a comprehensive and enriching experience for its students. The commitment to fostering creativity and providing funding for various initiatives, such as case competitions, is encouraging and motivates students to engage in programs that contribute to building a strong MBA cohort.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I had significant anxiety about returning to the academic setting as a student and the prospect of meeting new people in my first year.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited about building new relationships and also excited about the global immersion program, where we get to travel to Washington D.C, Barcelona and Singapore.
