I came to the Full-time MBA at Smith School of Business because ...

I chose the Smith MBA because from my initial research through the application process, I knew it would be my first choice for an MBA in Canada. As a current Master of Management Analytics (MMA) student at Smith, I did not arrive at this decision because it was the easiest next step, but because it was the most meaningful one in my continued leadership journey.

Before coming to Smith, I recalled a conversation with my mentor, who suggested I should get a business-focused master’s degree, and we explored different business schools across Canada and the United States. Smith School of Business kept coming up in our conversations. My focus was on a program that would push me out of my comfort zone, challenge how I think and prepare me for real-world complexity.

The Smith MBA drew me not just for its academic reputation, but also for its emphasis on collaboration, described as a team-based learning approach. The team-based learning approach offered me an excellent opportunity to build a high-level network with fellow Smith alumni and to form long-lasting relationships.

Experiencing Smith firsthand deepened that belief. The team-based learning approach has been one of the most powerful aspects of my MBA journey. Working in diverse teams under pressure has shown me the importance of communication, trust and adaptability. These are skills that no textbook alone can teach. The one-on-one coaching has pushed me to examine my values, strengths and areas for growth, helping me build not just professional skills but also personal clarity about my career path.

• Hometown: Collingwood, Ontario
• Country of Origin: Nigeria
• Prior Industry: Manufacturing
• Career Focus: Operations/Consulting