As a Nigerian navigating my career in the fast-paced business world, I always knew there was another level I wanted to reach—but the timing was never right. One day, I sat down with my mentor to discuss career growth and future ambitions. You know, one of those “What’s next?” conversations where you expect to hear about new projects, maybe even a promotion. But instead, he hit me with, “Why don’t you pursue an MBA?”
I nodded, smiled, and thought, “Yeah…maybe not right now.” I brushed it off for a whole year, convinced that I was fine where I was. I mean, I had a decent remote job, was building experience, and felt pretty secure. Why rock the boat with a massive life decision like an MBA? For anyone reading this who’s sitting on the fence about getting an MBA, let me save you the one-year delay: If the thought of an MBA even crosses your mind, go for it. Don’t overthink it or wait for the “perfect” moment—because guess what? There’s no such thing as perfect timing.
When I finally decided to go for it, the first major hurdle was the dreaded GRE. Now, I’ll be honest, I had nightmares about this test. The thought of going back to math formulas I hadn’t seen in years was enough to give me heart palpitations. But I knew what I had to do. I signed up for GRE prep classes twice a week, and let me tell you, juggling those classes with a full-time job was a whole new level of hustle. There I was, working during the day and sitting in evening classes trying to relearn algebra like my life depended on it. Spoiler alert: it kind of did. After weeks of prep, I took the GRE once and, thank goodness, I aced it. Now, acing it didn’t mean I breezed through it—there were moments of panic, frustration, and lots of late-night study sessions. But that sweet, sweet moment when you see your score makes all the chaos worth it.
With the GRE out of the way, I was feeling a bit victorious. That is, until I realized the real work was just beginning—researching MBA programs. I did what any ambitious applicant would do: went straight to Google and typed in “top 20 MBA programs in the U.S.”—because why not aim high, right? Suddenly, my inbox was flooded with newsletters from many of these schools, all telling me how they were the perfect fit for my goals and future. It was like each one was trying to sweet-talk me into applying. I wasn’t about to throw all my eggs into one basket, though, so I made sure to include three “safe schools” in case things didn’t go exactly as planned.
Then the real fun began: emails. So. Many. Emails. The first interesting one that caught my eye was from the Forté Foundation. They were hosting a big virtual conference in the Fall of 2021, and after hearing good things about Forté, I decided to attend. Virtually, of course (thanks, pandemic). This was a major turning point. I got to meet admissions officers from a wide range of schools, e-meet some incredible people, and—wait for it—score some application fee waivers. Now, if you’re Nigerian or from any emerging market economy, you know just how sweet that is with our exchange rate. I was over here thanking the financial gods because those fee waivers were basically gold. Seriously, applying to multiple schools isn’t cheap, so every waiver felt like a win.
That conference opened my eyes to so many schools I hadn’t even thought about. And after the Forté event, I attended even more info sessions for the schools I had subscribed to. I wasn’t just attending these for the info, though—oh no, I had a strategy. These info sessions were also a great way to rack up more fee waivers (yes, there’s a theme here). If there’s one thing I learned, it’s that every little helps in this process. Before long, I had narrowed down my list of target schools to five, based on the interactions I’d had at the conference, the info sessions, and tons of email exchanges with current students and admissions officers.
Now, if you know me, you know I’m a bit of an organization fanatic, so what did I do? I created the ultimate Excel sheet. This wasn’t just a list of schools—it was my MBA battle plan. I included the application rounds, deadlines, requirements for each school, and even how many essays I had to write. There were columns for who I talked to, which students I reached out to, and any key takeaways from my interactions. The best part? I added a column where I could put a glorious check mark after I completed each task. There’s something so satisfying about ticking off a box, especially when it comes to something as stressful as MBA applications. That Excel sheet became my survival guide.
Speaking of talking to current students, I reached out to a bunch of them through what we now call L54 (though back then, it wasn’t called that). I’m pretty sure I was their first candidate, which is kind of a badge of honor now. Those conversations were instrumental in helping me refine my application. The insights I got from current students made all the difference, from understanding the culture of each school to picking up tips on the application process itself.
By the time application season rolled around, I felt like a battle-hardened warrior—armed with my GRE score, my Excel sheet of dreams, and all the fee waivers I could collect. I submitted four applications in Round 1 and one more in Round 2. Then came the hardest part of all: WAITING! You know that feeling when you send a risky text and then immediately toss your phone across the room because you’re too scared to look at the response? That was basically me, except instead of waiting for a text, I was obsessively checking my inbox for life-changing emails.
The first responses trickled in, and—drumroll—it wasn’t what I was hoping for. Two waitlist notifications. Yep, not one, but two. Getting waitlisted is like being told, “We like you, but we’re not sure we like you enough… yet.” It felt like I was stuck in MBA purgatory—neither in nor out. At this point, my nerves were all over the place. I started mentally replaying every essay I wrote, wondering if I should’ve used that extra comma or mentioned that one time I volunteered at the community center.
But then, the universe decided to throw me a bone. After what felt like forever (okay, it was probably just a few days), I received the email. You know, the one where you frantically click to open it, half covering your eyes? It was an acceptance! That feeling is like nothing else—it’s like hitting the jackpot after being stuck in traffic for hours. Suddenly, all those late nights, GRE prep, and Excel sheet madness felt worth it.
Just when I was riding that high, another acceptance email rolled in. At this point, I was officially two for four. I was pumped! Two schools wanted me! I went from waitlist blues to being ready to shout my news from the rooftops—or at least update my LinkedIn. It was surreal, and I was so grateful for the whole journey.
The waitlist situation? Well, let’s just say I wasn’t too worried about it anymore. I was already in at two incredible schools, and that’s all that mattered. It was like being offered two golden tickets, and now I had the (admittedly tough) task of deciding which one to take.
Looking back, it was a wild ride—from that initial chat with my mentor, to the countless GRE prep sessions, to attending virtual conferences and collecting fee waivers like Pokémon cards. I started out unsure of whether I even wanted an MBA, and now here I was, accepted into two top schools. If there’s anything I’ve learned, it’s that the process might feel impossible at times, but with persistence (and an Excel sheet), you can get through it.
So, if you’re sitting on the MBA fence right now, wondering if it’s worth the effort, let me save you the trouble—just go for it. You might find yourself up late cramming for the GRE, or obsessing over an Excel sheet full of deadlines, but trust me—it’s worth it. You’ll learn that even the most overwhelming process can be tackled one step at a time (and with plenty of coffee).
To those still in the thick of the process: May your inbox bless you with good news, your exchange rate be forever in your favor, and your Excel sheet never fail you. Because if I can do it, you absolutely can too. And don’t worry, I’ll be here cheering you on every step of the way.
I am presently at the stage where i am prepping for GRE and mehnnn it ain’t easy juggling a full time job and that exam and CCNA certification 😩😩
Your emphasis on the excel sheet and lot of coffee is presently my current status right now😅😅 I’m happy for you and congratulations 🎊 👏
Can you kindly recommend a centre where in Lagos Nigeria where I can attend classes for the GRE exam?
I’m happy the Excel sheet I provided is helpful as you juggle work and GRE preparation in the application process.
As for GRE centers to take the exam, a quick Google search will generate a list of test centers and the option to take the test virtually.
Thank you for sharing your story—it’s so inspiring to see someone make that big leap! What were the main reasons you felt an MBA was essential for your career progression, and would you recommend it as a universal next step for others?
Thank you for your kind words! For me, pursuing an MBA was essential for several key reasons:
1. Skill Enhancement: An MBA provided me with advanced business knowledge and leadership skills that were crucial for moving into higher management roles.
2. Networking Opportunities: Being part of a top business school allowed me to connect with industry leaders, peers, and alumni, which has been invaluable for my career growth.
3. Global Perspective: Studying alongside a diverse cohort gave me a broader understanding of international markets and business practices, which is especially important in today’s globalized economy.
However, I wouldn’t say an MBA is the universal next step for everyone. It depends on your career goals, industry, and personal circumstances. If you’re aiming for leadership roles in business, seeking to expand your network, or looking to pivot your career, an MBA can be highly beneficial. But for some career paths or personal situations, alternative routes like specialized certifications or gaining more work experience might be more appropriate. It’s important to weigh the costs and benefits based on your objectives.
Your journey in selecting programs is incredibly insightful. Could you share what specific factors you considered when picking schools and how you ultimately prioritized your list?
When selecting MBA programs, I focused on culture and collaboration, network strength, pleasant encounters, and post-MBA opportunities.
1. Culture and Collaboration: I sought schools with a strong sense of community and teamwork, ensuring an inclusive and supportive environment that fosters collaboration.
2. Network Strength: I prioritized programs with robust and active alumni networks and strong industry connections, essential for career growth and mentorship opportunities.
3. Pleasant Encounters: Positive interactions with admissions officers, faculty, and current students during virtual conferences and info sessions were crucial in gauging the school’s supportive culture.
4. Post-MBA Opportunities: I looked for schools offering comprehensive career services, high employment rates, and strong placement in my target industries to ensure excellent career prospects after graduation.
This approach helped me narrow down my choices to top programs that best aligned with my professional and personal goals.
What surprised you the most about your program, and What was the most beneficial experience you gained while in business school? And how have they impacted your performance positively in your current role?
Thank you for your great questions! Here’s what stood out to me during my MBA journey:
What surprised you the most about your program?
I was most surprised by the collaborative culture. I expected a highly competitive environment, but instead, I found a strong sense of teamwork and support among classmates. This collaborative spirit not only made learning more enjoyable but also enhanced my ability to work effectively in diverse teams.
What was the most beneficial experience you gained while in business school?
The most beneficial experience was participating in real-world consulting projects. These hands-on projects allowed me to apply classroom theories to actual business challenges, sharpening my problem-solving and strategic thinking skills. Additionally, working closely with industry professionals provided invaluable insights and practical knowledge that went beyond textbook learning.
How have they impacted your performance positively in your current role?
These experiences have had a significant positive impact on my current role:
1. Enhanced Teamwork: The collaborative skills I developed enable me to lead and work within diverse teams more effectively, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
2. Strategic Decision-Making: The strategic and analytical skills gained from consulting projects help me make informed, impactful decisions that drive business success.
3. Confidence and Leadership: The practical experiences and knowledge from my MBA have boosted my confidence, allowing me to take on leadership roles and drive initiatives with greater assurance.
4. Networking: The strong network I built during my MBA provides ongoing support and opportunities for collaboration, further advancing my career.
Reading your journey, I’m struck by how relentlessly you pursued each opportunity—prepping for the GRE while working, strategically gathering fee waivers… It’s impressive but also intense!
Question: Looking back, was there ever a moment when you questioned if all this effort was worth it, or were you ever close to walking away? And if so, what kept you going?
Thank you for your thoughtful question! Actually, I never thought of walking away because I was driven by a clear vision of what lay ahead. I knew that pursuing an MBA would open doors to opportunities far greater than what I had achieved locally. Having already made a meaningful impact on a local scale, I was determined to expand that influence globally. This ambition kept me focused and motivated throughout the intense process of prepping for the GRE, juggling work, and every step of the application process. The prospect of scaling my impact and contributing to the global business landscape was a powerful motivator that made every challenge worthwhile. Knowing that the effort I was putting in would enable me to achieve greater things kept me committed and energized every step of the way.
My experience in auditing has helped me develop a keen eye for detail and long-term planning, which makes me appreciate the meticulous approach you described in your MBA application process.
I see you have an extensive background and deep expertise in strategy and problem-solving—case in point, your use of an Excel sheet as a ‘battle plan’ during your MBA journey. I’m curious—how did your pre-MBA experience, combined with what you’ve gained during your MBA, help you land your current role? How did the two experiences tie together to shape your career path?”
My pre-MBA technical expertise from petrophysics and product management combined with strategic insights from my MBA has equipped me with unique skills that enable me to tackle challenges with both depth and breadth, making informed and impactful decisions. Understanding both the technical aspects and business strategies allowed me to bridge gaps between technical teams and business stakeholders, fostering better communication and project execution.
The blend of meticulous analysis, strategic planning, and leadership made me a well-rounded candidate, highly attractive to employers seeking individuals who can navigate both technical and strategic domains. The impact on my current role is tremendous as I can combine technical expertise with strategic thinking to identify and implement creative solutions that drive growth and improve operational efficiency.
My experience in auditing has helped me develop a keen eye for detail and long-term planning, which makes me appreciate the meticulous approach you described in your MBA application process.
I see you have an extensive background and deep expertise in strategy and problem-solving—case in point, your use of an Excel sheet as a ‘battle plan’ during your MBA journey. I’m curious—how did your pre-MBA experience, combined with what you’ve gained during your MBA, help you land your current role? How did the two experiences tie together to shape your career path?
Hello Rebecca,
I am currently a strategy consultant in one of the big four consulting companies and I have felt too lax in applying to business school due to lack of motivation and not thinking big, but your story has inspired me to take on the application process head-on. Thank you.
Given your background in strategically navigating the MBA application process while excelling in a full-time role, how have these experiences uniquely prepared you for leadership positions in the business world?
My journey through the MBA application process while maintaining a demanding full-time job honed my time management, strategic planning, and resilience—key attributes for effective leadership. Balancing rigorous GRE preparation, comprehensive research of top MBA programs, and active networking demonstrated my ability to prioritize and execute complex tasks under pressure. These experiences have equipped me with a robust foundation in strategic thinking and adaptability, enabling me to lead teams effectively, drive organizational growth, and navigate the dynamic challenges of the global business environment with confidence and expertise.
In your opinion, what are the most effective strategies for mastering the GRE/GMAT?
The key to mastering the GRE/GMAT lies in establishing a consistent study schedule that accommodates your other commitments. Joining test prep courses can provide targeted instruction and help address any weaknesses. Additionally, utilizing a score submission strategy—such as submitting only your highest section scores—can significantly enhance your application.
How do you recommend selecting the right MBA programs?
I advise conducting thorough research on top-tier programs while identifying a few “safe” schools where your credentials comfortably meet or exceed the average admitted candidate’s metrics. This diversified approach not only increases your chances of acceptance but also provides a safety net in case your top choices don’t pan out.
What role does networking play in the MBA application process?
Networking is crucial. Engaging with current students and alumni through platforms like LinkedIn offers authentic insights into school culture and admissions preferences. These connections can also lead to valuable referrals, which can strengthen your application significantly.
Can you explain the importance of attending school events before applying?
Attending school-specific events and webinars demonstrates genuine interest and commitment to the program. It also provides opportunities to network with faculty and students, and often, these events offer application fee waivers, which can alleviate financial burdens, especially for international applicants.
How can applicants effectively manage their application process?
I recommend creating a comprehensive spreadsheet to track deadlines, application requirements, and progress. This structured approach reduces stress and ensures that all components of the application are completed on time, allowing applicants to focus on crafting their best submissions.