Ebube Israel-Bolarinwa

The University of Texas at Austin, McCombs School of Business

“A dynamic professional making positive impact, infusing life’s journey with success, kindness, and personal growth.”

Fun Fact about Yourself: As a child, I wanted to become a Nun, because I was convinced it was my surest ticket to Heaven.

Hometown: Ogun State, Nigeria

Undergraduate School and Major: Eastern Mediterranean University, Cyprus. International Relations

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Business Development Executive, First Aluminum Nigeria Plc.

What makes Austin such a great place to earn an MBA? Austin is a city bursting with diversity and inclusive energy, where everyone can truly find their own unique path. You are surrounded by like-minded, creative individuals with big hearts, making it the perfect place for learning and collaboration. Let’s not forget the live music, amazing scenery, and mouthwatering Tacos. But the real magic of Austin lies in its entrepreneurial spirit and thriving economy. Austin’s robust business ecosystem offers abundant prospects for internships and post-MBA careers, facilitated by its proximity to industry leaders. The city is alive with opportunities, and that infectious drive for innovation with a blend of education and entertainment makes it the ultimate setting for an MBA adventure.

Aside from your classmates and location, what was the key part of Texas McCombs’ MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you?  Choosing Texas McCombs’ MBA was a no-brainer once I discovered CleanTech Fellow program. It resonated well with my deep passion for sustainability and environmental responsibility and is an excellent platform for networking with like-minded individuals and potential future employers who share my dedication to making a positive impact on the environment. For me, this was more than just an opportunity; it was a perfect fit for my values and career goals. It made me feel that Texas McCombs was not just a place for an MBA but a place where I could truly make a lasting impact in a field I deeply care about. It certainly added a thrilling dimension to my MBA choice.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Texas McCombs? I’m genuinely excited about the CleanTech Group at Texas McCombs. Given my background in plastic recycling in Nigeria, sustainability has always been my passion. The CleanTech Group at McCombs shares this passion and provides a remarkable opportunity to apply my expertise in plastic recycling to address global environmental challenges. Overall, the CleanTech Fellow program is an exhilarating and deeply fulfilling aspect of my MBA journey at Texas McCombs.

What has been your first impression of the McCombs MBA students and alumni you’ve met so far. Tell us your best McCombs story so far. The sense of community and togetherness at McCombs is truly remarkable. The authentic enthusiasm for the success of everyone is infectious, and the spirit of inclusivity and willingness to work together is truly special. McCombs fosters a community where both students and alumni are not solely focused on personal success; you can really feel the “we rise by lifting each other” is deeply ingrained. What’s even more inspiring is the success stories of MBA students with non-traditional backgrounds which is a testament to McCombs’ commitment to nurturing diverse talents and helping people chase their unique dreams.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: My most significant career achievement has been spearheading the planning and establishment of an advanced PET recycling plant in Nigeria, aimed at addressing the pressing issue of plastic waste. This project involved sourcing funding, designing efficient recycling processes, and navigating regulatory challenges. Beyond its environmental impact in reducing plastic pollution and protecting ecosystems, the project has created jobs and contributed to local economic development.

Looking ahead two years, what would make your MBA experience at McCombs successful? In the next two years, I envision my McCombs MBA journey as a personal and professional odyssey. My unwavering commitment will be towards personal and professional development through coursework, internships, and extracurricular activities, coupled with the establishment of enduring connections with peers, alumni, and industry leaders. I firmly believe that true success is not complete without giving back, either through mentoring, collaboration, community engagement, or environmental sustainability. My aspiration is to be an integral part of McCombs’ collective progress, forging lasting partnerships and leaving a meaningful legacy while providing unwavering support to my fellow MBA journeyers.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into Texas McCombs’ MBA program? Take time to reflect on your motivations and how your unique life experiences align with McCombs’ culture and values. Tap into the student and alumni network—it’s a goldmine of insights and connections. But most importantly, stay true to yourself, be passionate, and let your genuine enthusiasm shine through. In the end, it’s about finding the right fit and embracing the McCombs community to make your journey successful.

DON’T MISS: MEET THE TEXAS MCCOMBS MBA CLASS OF 2025