Tamilore Oduwole
Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of Science, Industrial Relations and Human Resources Management
Co-op or Internship Experience:
- Human Resources Co-op with Mondelēz International
- Talent Acquisition Co-op with EQ Bank
What are your top 2 industries: CPG and Consulting
Are you part of any clubs or associations:
- DeGroote MBA Student Ambassador
- President, One for the World: DeGroote Chapter
- External General Secretary, African Caribbean Graduate Student Association (ACGSA)
What made you pursue an MBA: Pursuing an MBA was driven by my desire to grow beyond my technical HR and consulting background and develop a broader understanding of business strategy, leadership, and organizational impact. Through my experience in HR consulting and corporate HR roles, I realized I wanted to contribute not just to people initiatives, but to larger business decisions that shape organizations. As an international student coming to Canada, I also saw the MBA as an opportunity to gain Canadian work experience, expand my professional network, and challenge myself in a completely new environment. The journey has pushed me both personally and professionally, and it has strengthened my confidence in leading through change and complexity.
Why did you choose DeGroote: I was looking for more than just a strong academic program, I needed a place that could help me adapt, grow, and build real experience in a new environment. DeGroote stood out because of its co-op MBA structure, which meant I’d gain a full year of hands-on work experience in Canada while completing my degree. That opportunity was especially important to me as an international student trying to navigate a new culture and career landscape. Beyond that, I found the community at DeGroote warm and approachable. It’s the kind of place where people make time for you, whether it’s faculty, staff, or classmates. That supportive environment played a big role in helping me feel more settled and confident in my decision.
What has been your favourite part about the MBA: One of the most meaningful moments of my MBA journey was delivering the Student Impact Speech at the MBA Awards Night. It was a very full-circle moment for me because it gave me the opportunity to reflect on how much I had grown since starting the program, both professionally and personally. What made the experience even more special was knowing that my story resonated with others and represented the impact that leadership, community, and resilience can have during the MBA journey. It reminded me that success is not only about achievements, but also about the people you inspire and the communities you contribute to along the way.
What is one quick tip you have for a first-year MBA student: Don’t try to do the MBA alone. Put yourself out there early, build relationships, ask questions, attend events, and lean into the community around you. The program moves quickly, and some of the biggest opportunities come from the connections you build with classmates, professors, alumni, and employers.
What has been your favourite course at DeGroote, and why: My favourite course has been O611 – Operations Management because it completely changed the way I think about business operations and continuous improvement. Before the course, I had very limited exposure to concepts like supply chain management, and Lean Six Sigma. The course gave me foundational knowledge and practical perspectives on how organizations improve efficiency, solve problems, and create value across operations. What made it even more impactful was how directly applicable it became during my co-op at Mondelēz International. It was rewarding to see classroom concepts come to life in a real business setting.
What I wish I knew on Day 1: You do not need to have everything figured out when you start the MBA. Growth happens through the uncertainty, and some of the best opportunities come from being open to experiences you never originally planned for.
What is one of your favourite weekend activities: Eating out at different restaurants
Who is your favourite author: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
What would be your “walk-on song”: Joy. by RAYE, Amma and Absolutely
What is your favourite TV show: Abbott Elementary
Email: oduwolet@mcmaster.ca