Falilat Adamson, IESE MBA Class of 2026
Age: 29
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Ibadan; Agricultural Sciences
Pre-MBA Work Experience: I worked briefly in an Audit firm, 2 years as a Business Development Executive at a Commercial Bank, and as a Treasury Manager for 3+ years in both the Supply Chain industry and Fintech.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I want to refine my business and communication skills and gain a broader perspective on leadership and strategy. I am certain that an MBA will give me the structured learning, tools, and network I need to take my career to the next level.
As for why now, I feel ready for the challenge. I’ve built a solid foundation in my field, and I’m eager to expand my knowledge before taking on more senior roles. Plus, the timing feels right for me personally and mentally—I’m excited to invest in myself and my future.
Why did you choose IESE? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose IESE for several reasons that truly resonated with me. First and foremost, the diversity of the student body was a significant factor. IESE attracts individuals from all corners of the globe, and I was eager to immerse myself in that international environment. Learning from classmates with varied perspectives and backgrounds will not only enhance my education but also allow me to experience different cultures without having to travel extensively.
Additionally, IESE’s strong reputation for academic excellence and commitment to ethical leadership was crucial in my decision-making process. I wanted to be part of a program that prioritizes integrity and prepares its students to make a positive impact in the business world.
The proximity of the time zone to Nigeria was an essential consideration for me. Being in a similar time zone will allow me to maintain close ties with my family while I embark on this exciting journey of making new friends and building a global network.
And of course, the fact that the program is in Barcelona, a beautiful and vibrant city, didn’t hurt either! It’s an inspiring place to live and study. All these factors combined made IESE the perfect fit for me.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
I believe my most valuable contribution to the Class of 2026 will be my unique experience working in both traditional banks and fintech startups in emerging markets. This combination has given me a deep understanding of the financial landscape and the challenges faced by businesses in these dynamic environments
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I am still learning to ride a bicycle and I look forward to riding a patinete through the street of Barcelona someday soon.
Post-MBA career interests
IFIs and Fintechs
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would absolutely take the time to thoroughly research the school’s values and speak with current students, alumni and the admission team. While you can read and research a lot about a school, you truly understand its culture when you hear from people who have experienced it firsthand. Engaging with the community gave me valuable insights that helped me tailor my application to show how my goals align with the institution and highlight what I can contribute. It also boosted my confidence in choosing the right program, knowing it was the perfect fit for my aspirations.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
One thing I would change about my application process is how I approached my school choices. I would have dedicated all my time and energy to applying to IESE rather than spreading my efforts across multiple schools. I also wish I had connected with more students and alumni earlier on. At first, I hesitated to reach out, thinking I might not get responses based on my experiences with other schools. However, I quickly realized that IESE’s community is incredibly open and supportive.
I was pleasantly surprised by how willing everyone was to help; not only did they share valuable resources, but they also went above and beyond by conducting mock interviews for me.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would have skipped the anxiety of waiting for a decision. Even though I was confident in my application, the process was incredibly competitive, with top students from around the globe applying. That uncertainty made the waiting period stressful, despite my positive outlook.
What is your initial impression of the IESE students/culture/community?
My initial impression is that IESE community is highly collaborative and united by a shared sense of purpose. I’ve seen instances where multiple students were applying for the same position, yet instead of being overly competitive, they shared resources and practiced together. This kind of mutual support really stands out and speaks to the community-focused culture at IESE, where everyone demonstrates a true commitment to helping one another succeed.
What is one thing you have learned about IESE that has surprised you?
One thing that has truly surprised me about IESE is the extent of the support and engagement within the community. It has been quite reassuring to discover how accessible professors are, and how genuinely invested they are in the success of the students.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I am anxious about finding the right internship for me; however I am trusting the process.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about the opportunity to make new friends, travel across Europe and other countries, and immerse myself in various events. Reconnecting with the vibrant social atmosphere of university life is something I truly look forward to. I’m especially eager to relive the sense of community and collaboration I experienced during my undergrad, but this time with the added richness of new learnings and perspectives from my peers. I can’t wait to embrace all the adventures and connections that my first year at IESE will bring!
