Ewnet Azerefegne, Washington University Olin’s MBA Class of 2026
Age: 32
Hometown: Hawassa, Ethiopia
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Addis Ababa University, Medicine
Pre-MBA Work Experience: For the six years, I have held multiple roles in healthcare, including Senior General Medical Practitioner, Head of Infection Prevention, Program Manager, Board Member, and Head of Quality Improvement, within a hospital and clinic setting.
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school after my experience trying to start a healthcare venture in Ethiopia without a business background. Navigating the business side of healthcare was both fascinating and energizing. This experience highlighted how impactful a business foundation could be, not only for driving new ideas but also for creating broader, meaningful change in healthcare. Business school felt like the perfect next step to equip myself with the skills to help others
Why did you choose WashU Olin? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose WashU Olin because it offers a rare combination of academic rigor and a deeply collaborative environment that values impact-driven leadership. Olin’s culture stood out to me as there’s a genuine emphasis on pushing boundaries that is tangible in ways that make a difference. The chance to pursue both an MBA and an MPH here is unique, giving me the interdisciplinary perspective I need to tackle complex healthcare challenges.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
What sets me apart in the Class of 2026 is my ability to bring a clinician’s mindset into strategic, big-picture thinking. My experience spans both direct patient care and healthcare program management, where I learned to adapt quickly and think creatively, especially while navigating resource-limited settings. Attempting to start a healthcare initiative in Ethiopia, without a formal business background, showed me the impact that resourcefulness and empathy can have in driving solutions. I’m eager to bring these perspectives to our class, fostering discussions that balance strategic ambition with a grounded, human-centered approach.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’m a huge Harry Potter fan! I’ve read the books multiple times, can quote entire scenes from memory, and love sorting friends into different houses based on their personalities. The story’s mix of friendship, courage, and a touch of magic that I find endlessly inspiring.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
One thing I would absolutely do again is stay engaged throughout the application process by asking questions, speaking with recruiters, and connecting with current students. This helped me genuinely gauge which doors the program could open for me.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently
I wish I had reached out to faculty and advisors at Washington University for endorsements during the application process. Having had the unique opportunity of being at WashU a year earlier, I could have used my relationships with professors to increase my chances of securing more scholarship support.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Waiting for the admission decision was incredibly tough. I managed to get through it by staying focused on my other projects and trusting in the effort I’d put into my application, which helped relieve some of the stress.
What is your initial impression of the WashU Olin students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the WashU Olin students, culture, and community is that it is filled with an abundance of opportunities for networking and building connections. The atmosphere is not only welcoming and fun but also encourages collaboration and interaction among students.
What is one thing you have learned about WashU Olin that has surprised you?
I was pleasantly surprised by the level of personal attention and connection at WashU Olin. By the end of my first week everyone knew my name. It’s inspiring to feel recognized and supported it makes the experience even more enriching and motivating.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I’m most anxious about keeping up with the fast pace of the program while ensuring I get the most out of each experience. Being a dual degree student I have only a year to soak this all up at once. With so many opportunities for learning and growth, I want to be careful not to stretch myself too thin. Balancing academics, networking, and personal goals will be a challenge, but I’m optimistic that the support within the program will help me navigate it.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited about being in a cohort that’s so diverse and sharp. It is incredibly motivating, and I’m eager to challenge myself alongside them. The connections I’ve already made have been meaningful, and I’m looking forward to the shared learning and the supportive network we’re building together.
