Tokunbo Akinbajo

Tokunbo Akinbajo

Current Employer: MassMutual
Title: Assistant Corporate Secretary and Counsel
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Undergraduate School: University at Albany, State University of New York and Boston University School of Law

I find myself more reflective in my second year, knowing that the journey is coming to an end. But, the lifetime of friendships that I’ve built here are going to stay with me.

Why did you choose Cornell?

The Cornell EMBA was one of the few programs that have the residential component, which I think has helped to build a stronger network with my colleagues. The teachers are amazing here, too.

What was your first impression of Cornell?

When I arrived to Cornell, I was immediately struck by how much the administrators and professors really care about us. The standards are very high and I was not disappointed. My first impression affirmed my decision to go to Cornell and made me excited to join the Cornell family.

What has surprised you most?

How fast it is going. The days are long and the weeks are short. I find myself more reflective in my second year, knowing that the journey is soon coming to an end, but that the lifetime of friendships that I’ve built here are going to stay with me forever.

What is your most memorable experience?

I would say what stands out most in my mind is a collective number of experiences inside and out of the classroom. My colleagues and I formed such a tight bond in the first year and made a commitment to each other academically, but also socially. Whether it is celebrating someone’s birthday, upcoming wedding, or a baby shower, the friendships we have made are genuine and we are there for each other.

What makes your program unique?

The Cornell EMBA program is one of the few programs of its stature that has a residential component. I think that having this component creates a certain sense of community among the students and allows us to form deeper, stronger relationships.

What have the residential sessions been like and what have you enjoyed?

Memorable. It is clear that the administration puts a lot of thought into the structure of days of these residential sessions. They ensure that one, we can complete the classroom requirements and two, that we get to know each other and really build that network and community that makes Cornell so special.

Favorite professor and why?

Wow, that is tough. I’d say Professor David Juran. I think he definitely is passionate about the Cornell family, enjoys teaching students, and really puts everything into perspective for us.

Favorite class or elective, and why?

Critical Thinking was my favorite—it was one of those classes that really expands your mind and helps you to see the world in a different way, especially with a business lens. The course was really engaging and I looked forward to every class.

What advice do you have for anyone applying to the program?

Start early. Get to know the staff, the professors, and former students, which I think will help to ease your transition into the program, because you will know what to expect.

What legacy would you like to leave behind?

As a collective class, the Class of 2018, I think our legacy will be one, academic excellence, and two, a collegial set of students that care about each other’s performance, professionally and academically.