MBA Career Success Stories: Overcoming Challenges and Sharing Advice

Last Updated on March 24, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

Ben Arinze, a recent graduate of Cornell University’s MBA program, has faced and overcome significant challenges on his journey to success.

It all started in January 2022 when Arinze, while working at a new job in Manhattan, began experiencing discomfort in his right leg. This discomfort quickly escalated, causing him to develop a limp and ultimately take sick leave, leading to the loss of his job in New York City. Despite numerous tests, the exact cause of Arinze’s symptoms remained unknown for months, leaving him in a state of uncertainty and fear.

However, through perseverance and determination, Arinze found hope and improvement through physical therapy. It was during this time that he made the decision to pursue his MBA at the prestigious Johnson Graduate School of Management at Cornell.

In August 2023, Arinze officially began his journey as an MBA student at Cornell in Ithaca. Despite the setbacks he faced, Arinze’s hard work paid off when he received an investment banking offer in NYC for the summer of 2024.

Throughout his journey, Arinze has learned to prioritize what truly matters in life and to embrace the unpredictability of the future. He remains grateful for his experiences, which have given him a new perspective on life and a deeper appreciation for the present moment.

Arinze’s story serves as a reminder that success often comes with challenges and setbacks. It is through perseverance, resilience, and a willingness to adapt that we can overcome even the most difficult obstacles and achieve our goals.