For Michael Ojetunde (BA French and Economics, 2022), opting to study a language was always part of a grander plan.

He says, “Much of my family work within Western African and Middle Eastern Asia for international organisations like NATO and the World Bank. After doing my own research into geopolitics, I decided I wanted to work for organisations that are tackling inequality. To do that you need dual language.”

"A career in linguistics or translation never crossed my mind; I viewed French as a tool to facilitate business. Embracing another language opens doors to thinking on a global scale."

Part of Michael’s undergraduate degree involved spending a year abroad, which is very often the highlight in many students' university experience.

Michael says, “I grew up in Southeast London and went to school in Croydon. My year in Paris was my first experience being surrounded by a diverse group of individuals who were different from me. This enriched my life for the better.

“I remember one evening, a group of us sat in the Champ de Mars, a big green space right in front of the Eiffel Tower. It was in the middle of Covid, at 8 o’clock at night, and almost deserted, bar a few locals. A police car drove past to send everyone home and - being tourists - we jumped up to leave. The groups of locals stayed put and waved for us to sit back down. It was very indicative of the way the French live.”

Michael secured a summer placement at Baringa in summer 2021, and he’s been working there ever since. But what does an analyst at an award-winning management consultancy do?

He says, “Each day is busy! A typical week involves meetings, consultations, and a lot of presentations. I won’t say how many hours I spend on Excel. My job is to facilitate pulling together information in the best possible way for the client to receive.

“I feel like I’m more than my 9-6. I’m working on a side hustle developing an airline business in Guinea. It does mean there is a fine line between balance and burnout.”

Juggling competing priorities isn’t new for Michael. As well as playing semi-professional football during his final year, he was involved in several of the 300+ societies at Warwick.

Michael remarks, "During my time at Warwick, I actively participated in the Warwick African Society, Warwick Incubator, and Economics Society. Looking back, I could have possibly managed my work-life balance more effectively. However, I made sure to make the most of my years at Warwick. I wholeheartedly pursued my interests and satisfied my curiosity, and I truly believe this is what led me to secure an internship with a company that aligned with my values."