Adedayo Adeniyi, UCI Paul Merage School of Business MBA Class of 2026
Age: 30 Years
Hometown: Ogbomosho, Nigeria
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Ibadan, B.Ed. Human Kinetics and Health Education
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Head of Marketing and Corporate Communication, Wiseki Technologies, 4 years
Why did you decide to attend business school? Why now?
I decided to attend business school because I wanted to take my career to the next level and expand my impact beyond what I could achieve on my own. I’ve had success in building and scaling businesses in fintech, but I realized that to tackle bigger challenges and lead at a higher level, I needed to broaden my skill set and perspective.
The timing felt right because I had reached a point where I wanted to transition from focusing solely on growth marketing and tech strategy to understanding the full picture of business strategy and leadership. I was also starting to explore industries outside my core experience—and I knew an MBA would expose me to these areas in a structured way.
Additionally, I felt that now was the moment to surround myself with a diverse set of peers and mentors who could push me to think differently and challenge my assumptions. I believe the MBA is about learning from others and refining your leadership vision, not just learning new skills.
Why did you choose UCI Merage? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose UCI Merage for its substance, not just its sunshine—though the perfect weather is definitely a bonus!
Merage’s focus on digital transformation and innovation was the main draw. It aligns perfectly with my fintech background and where I want to go. The Digital Leadership specialization really caught my eye—it’s exactly the blend of tech and business know-how I need to stay ahead in this fast-changing industry.
The small class size was a big factor too. With about 100 students per cohort, I knew I’d get the attention and interactions I need to thrive. It’s not just about listening to lectures; it’s about engaging, debating, and really digging into the material.
Merage’s commitment to diversity stood out. As a Black international student, I appreciated their genuine effort to understand my perspective. It wasn’t just talk—I saw it in the student body, faculty, and even the career center.
Being in Orange County’s tech hub is perfect for networking. I’m excited to tap into this ecosystem and build connections that’ll shape my career.
I’m also impressed by Merage’s focus on sustainability and responsible business. It’s not just about making profits; it’s about making a positive impact.
Merage offers the perfect environment for me to develop my tech strategy skills and grow as a thought leader. I’m confident this is where I’ll build the foundation for my future in tech leadership.
And yes, who says you can’t brainstorm business ideas on the beach while soaking up some California sunshine?
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
My most valuable contribution to the Class of 2026 is my ability to see beyond the numbers and identify perspectives that others might overlook. This comes from my experience scaling a fintech startup in Nigeria, where I had to navigate challenges that required more than just business acumen—it needed empathy, adaptability, and creative problem-solving.
In a fast-paced and often unpredictable market, I learned to analyze situations not just from a strategic standpoint but also through the lens of human behavior. This helped me connect the dots between what the data showed and what people truly needed, often revealing opportunities that weren’t immediately obvious.
Beyond that, I’ve spent a lot of time developing strategies that bridge business and technology, working closely with teams to drive growth while establishing thought leadership in our space. My background in tech strategy has given me a unique ability to see how digital solutions can solve deeper business issues, making technology not just an enabler, but a driver of business outcomes.
Ultimately, I think what sets me apart is the ability to blend strategic thinking with a deep understanding of people and technology—seeing opportunities and potential where others might just see numbers or roadblocks. I hope to bring this perspective to class discussions and group projects, adding a layer of insight that challenges us to think more broadly about business and the impact it can have.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
One fun fact about me that didn’t make it into my application is that I’ve ghostwritten over 100 books, covering everything from business and personal development to fiction. It’s given me a behind-the-scenes look at storytelling and communication, which I’ve also applied in my professional work.
Beyond writing, I’m a huge foodie and love experimenting in the kitchen. I grew up cooking Nigerian meals, but now I’m on a mission to master grilled chicken recipes from all over the world. I’m currently working on perfecting Jamaican jerk chicken, and next up is mastering a Mediterranean lemon herb chicken. Cooking lets me connect with different cultures, one dish at a time.
Post-MBA career interests:
Post-MBA, I’m looking to leverage my experience in fintech and marketing in roles like Product Marketing Manager or Digital Transformation Consultant within tech, fintech, or consumer products industries. I’m also exploring sustainability-focused roles where I can apply my skills to drive innovation and create a positive impact.
Recently, I’ve been drawn to climate technologies after having a really engaging conversation with my friend, Nimi. I’m now excited to see how I can contribute to this space. I also love cars, and the EV market fascinates me because of its potential to reshape transportation and sustainability. And since I’m a big fan of gaming, I see opportunities there too.
For me, the common thread is finding roles that let me combine strategic thinking, technology, and a desire to drive meaningful change. Whether it’s in fintech, climate tech, or gaming, I’m energized by the possibilities to make a difference.
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 as part of my application process is focusing on telling my authentic story. I believe each of us, no matter where we are today, has something unique and valuable to contribute. We might not yet have all the tools to be called an “all-rounder,” and that’s exactly why we pursue an MBA—to gain those skills and perspectives. But that doesn’t diminish who we are right now.
What made my application strong was the focus on presenting my journey as a narrative—highlighting not just what I achieved, but why it mattered, how it shaped me, and how it connects to what I want to achieve post-MBA. I made sure to include the moments that defined my path, the lessons I learned, and the passion that drives me forward.
For anyone applying, I would say don’t just write about your accomplishments—tell the story of who you are. Because even without everything in place, you’re enough, and your story can be a powerful differentiator.
-What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Be open to exploring new paths and industries you hadn’t initially considered. Coming into an MBA program, it’s natural to have a specific focus—whether that’s tech, consulting, or finance—but one of the biggest benefits of an MBA is the chance to expand your horizons. I started out targeting roles in tech and fintech, but as I progressed, I had insightful conversations and found myself drawn to areas I hadn’t thought of before, like gaming, climate technologies, and the EV market.
If I could do it again, I would have given myself more room to explore these interests earlier on, rather than narrowing down too soon. Start early on building authentic connections with your classmates and faculty, as these relationships often introduce you to ideas and opportunities you wouldn’t have discovered otherwise. Be intentional about getting to know people and their stories—it’s these connections that will shape your MBA journey in ways you might not expect.
So, stay curious and keep an open mind. Your goals will evolve, and that’s a good thing—embrace it!
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
One part I would have skipped if I could is the long wait for interview decisions. The uncertainty and self-doubt that creep in during that period can be really tough to manage. Everything about your application makes you question whether you told your story well or if you could have added more information.
What helped me get through it was staying focused on what I could control—preparing for potential interviews and reaching out to current students to learn more about the programs. I also reminded myself of the reasons I applied in the first place and the confidence I had when I first submitted the application. It’s easy to lose sight of that confidence in the waiting period, but taking time to reconnect with my goals and story helped me keep things in perspective.
For anyone going through it, I’d suggest focusing on building yourself up during that time—whether it’s learning something new, refining your interview skills, or just connecting with people in the MBA community. It keeps your energy positive and reminds you that, no matter the outcome, you’re moving forward.
What is your initial impression of the UCI Merage students/culture/community?
My first impression of UCI Merage is warmth and support. The community is incredibly diverse, with students and staff from all over the world. What struck me most was how welcoming everyone was, even before I arrived on campus. The admissions team, student ambassadors, and career center were all incredibly helpful from day one. As an international student, this level of support made a huge difference. The culture here values teamwork and new ideas. It’s not just about studying; it’s about growing together and pushing boundaries. I’ve found it simple to connect with people and feel at home here.
What is one thing you have learned about UCI Merage that has surprised you?
What’s surprised me most about UCI Merage is the level of personalized attention. Despite being part of a larger university, the program feels intimate. Professors try to know us by name, and the career center tailors their advice to each student’s goals. I didn’t expect such a personalized approach in an MBA program. It’s not just about lectures and assignments; there’s a real effort to understand and support each student’s uniqueness. This individualized focus has made my international student transition much smoother than anticipated.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I wouldn’t say I’m anxious, but I am mindful of the challenges ahead. After being away from a classroom for about six years, getting back into a student’s mindset will be an adjustment. Balancing the rigorous academic workload with networking and career exploration activities will require careful planning. However, I’m approaching this with a positive, tenacious mindset. As I often remind myself, “Everything will be fine.” The key will be to stay kind to myself, really dig into the work, and maintain that optimistic outlook. I know what to expect and am ready to embrace the experience fully.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I’m most excited about fully immersing myself in student life and the Merage community. Unlike my undergrad experience, I want to ensure I’m not just passing through the school but that the school is passing through me. I’m looking forward to the hands-on projects where we’ll apply classroom learning to real-world business challenges. What’s more than studying? Grow, connect, and maximize every opportunity here. I want to be involved in clubs, attend events, and become a key part of the Merage family. This time, I’m all in.
