Meet the MBA Class of 2026: Shalom Alugwe
Shalom Alugwe
Emory University
Goizueta Business School
“I will always be a Line Crosser because there is no greatness in safety.”
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
Fun Fact: Over the years, I have incorporated an interesting activity into my life which is restaurant hopping. As a gastronome, this is a fulfilling self-care outlet for me that spurs my creativity in many ways. It is not just about the taste of the food, but the intimacy and connections that I enjoy whilst at the table. This year, I have had nearly 44 unique dining experiences, and I still want to own my dainty restaurant by the seaside, sometime in the future.
Undergraduate School and Major: University of Lagos; Law
Most Recent Employer and Job Title: GAIA AFRICA – Global Coordinator, Membership & Programs
What makes Atlanta such a great place to earn an MBA?
Atlanta is an excellent choice for me to earn an MBA for several reasons such as its dynamic business environment, cultural adaptation, and community.
Atlanta has a diverse and thriving business ecosystem and is home to Fortune 500 companies such as Coca-Cola, Delta, UPS, and many more. The proximity to these corporations as an MBA student brings to life all the concepts and principles that will be taught by our seasoned professors. The presence of these heavyweight companies across multiple sectors further increases the accessibility to credible opportunities whilst in school and as we advance our careers after graduation.
Secondly, Atlanta’s vibrant cultural scene gradually influences MBA candidates in ways such as adaptation, communication, cross-cultural competence, and networking. MBA candidates are exposed to a variety of perspectives influenced by the rich international population present in Atlanta. Absorbing all of these varieties transforms one into a well-rounded business professional who has the capacity to meet the demands of the ever-changing business landscape.
Lastly, the hospitality that I have experienced here in the South is unparalleled. The people, the music, the food, the weather all add up for me in relatable ways. It is already quite a tough step to take by leaving home and loved ones to pursue an MBA in a new environment. It only makes sense for me to pick a place that truly feels just like home. And that is Atlanta. Building relationships and growing communities is a strong value that is imbibed in everyone here in Atlanta. The safety and empathy to tap into is a very essential element for thriving as an MBA candidate and I am excited at the opportunity to enjoy all of these.
Aside from your classmates and location, what was the key part of Goizueta Business School‘s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you?
During my application season, I interacted with over 15 top business schools. Without a doubt, I felt that the team at Goizueta Business School wanted this for me just as much as I wanted it for myself. That conviction is everything. I am talking about an admissions team made up of people I had never met and with whom I formed genuine connections over emails and coffee chats. The warmth, the acceptance, and that conviction were crucial for me as an international student who needs a welcoming environment that truly values diverse perspectives. Goizueta demonstrated exceptional commitment to my success by providing resources such as dedicated advisors, regular information sessions, and a readily supportive team to address questions or concerns.
For business schools, it is very easy to advertise nice offerings and statistics on a website but human connection is not an offering that can be sold, it must be felt. Emory Goizueta offered me a genuine support network and empowered me to put out the best version of myself.
What is your unique quality that will enable you to make a big contribution to the Class of 2026? Why?
I have lived in Nigeria throughout my life and Nigeria is a country that is daily bursting with energy and innovation at different levels. The large population and multicultural landscape influence the way that we do business and I have tapped into this rich culture. In my lifetime, I have been a lawyer, project manager, event planner, fashion designer, baker, teacher, writer, public speaker, and lots more. This is because I have always been committed to optimizing all the streams of my potential. I am encouraged to highlight my African perspective during case studies, experiential modules, and topical issues. On this, I look forward to exchanging diverse and well-rounded ideas with my classmates during Impact projects.
I know that I belong to a class with some of the most brilliant professionals in the world who all have impressive job titles. The cumulation of my experiences laced with Nigerian “flavor” is the only thing authentic to me. I am willing and ready to share my authentic self with the class inspired by real-life lessons.
Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far:
My unconventional transition from law to project management without a business degree is my biggest accomplishment so far. The journey has been one of unlearning, relearning, determination, and dedication and I have been able to reroute my path and align myself with where I truly want to be. I recall receiving a lot of backlash initially, but I persevered and now that idea has moved from conception to actualization.
Over the last few years, I have recorded a fulfilling stint of almost four years with a multisectoral footprint across development, consulting, luxury, and hospitality. As a rapid executor, I have a solid track record of leading large and visible projects that were instrumental to profit-pulling decisions. I have contributed to these companies by integrating data-driven processes to empower teams and leading end-to-end project delivery that outperforms globally competitive enterprise goals. Looking back, I can say that the journey has been rewarding and I am right where I want to be.
Looking ahead two years, what would make your MBA experience successful?
A successful MBA experience for me is one that is laced with legacy and friendship. It is my desire to create a meaningful impact both during and after the program. I am passionate about increasing the representation of women in business and the first step to doing that is to hold the door for more women to come through. Yes, men will continue to be our allies but it is important to continually reinforce that women have space at the table and all that they have to do is take it. By supporting and encouraging more women to pursue business education and become leaders, I hope to contribute my own quota to achieving an inclusive environment in the business world.
Additionally, I am excited about forming genuine connections and friendships with my classmates – relationships that I anticipate will endure well beyond the two years of the program. I often say that my MBA classmates are the successful friends to whom I will introduce my kids. I truly hope to connect with peers who share similar values and build bonds that will extend into a lifelong network of support and camaraderie.
Interested in exploring Full-Time MBA opportunities? Learn more about Goizueta’s Full-Time MBA program.
