From Paris to Memphis: Ornella Wayak Pambe’s MBA Success Story

This winter Commencement, the University of Memphis proudly celebrated Ornella Wayak Pambe, a graduate student whose academic journey reflects resilience, growth, and global perspective. Originally from Paris, France, Ornella recently earned her Master of Business Administration (MBA), adding to an impressive academic background that includes a bachelor’s degree in management and a master’s degree in marketing and communication.

For Ornella, completing her MBA was more than earning a degree—it was the culmination of a challenging and rewarding journey far from home. “It represents resilience, personal growth, and the successful completion of a demanding experience,” she shared. She chose the University of Memphis for its strong business program, welcoming campus culture, and the opportunity to develop leadership and strategic skills in an international setting.

When Ornella first arrived in Memphis, she was struck by the warmth of the community and the student-focused environment at UofM. Over time, the city began to feel like home, with favorite spots including Babalu, Shelby Farms Park, and local cafés that became part of her routine.

Academic Excellence and Impact

Earning her MBA was both a personal and professional milestone. Personally, it affirmed her perseverance and adaptability as an international student. Professionally, it strengthened her strategic thinking, leadership abilities, and confidence to pursue global career opportunities. Ornella maintained a strong GPA through structured planning, clear priorities, and consistent weekly goal-setting—habits that kept her focused and motivated throughout the program.

Several courses left a lasting impression, particularly Leadership with Dr. Tuberville and Global Strategy with Dr. Shelby Kemp. These classes, along with professors who emphasized real-world application and critical thinking, played a key role in shaping her graduate experience.

Graduate Assistant Experience

As a Graduate Assistant in Marketing, Communications, and Recruitment for the UofM Graduate School, Ornella played an integral role in telling the Graduate School’s story. She supported events, developed communication materials, and collaborated across teams—gaining hands-on experience in strategic messaging and audience engagement. The assistantship allowed her to directly apply classroom concepts in a professional setting, reinforcing her academic learning while building essential workplace skills.

The experience strengthened her abilities in strategic communication, time management, teamwork, and juggling multiple projects—skills she knows will stay with her well beyond graduation.

Life as an International Student

Like many international students, Ornella faced the challenge of adjusting to a new academic culture while balancing coursework, work responsibilities, and daily life in the U.S. From adapting to different routines to managing time pressures, the transition required patience and discipline. She credits campus involvement, meaningful friendships, and support from the Graduate School and international student programs for helping her build community and feel connected in Memphis.

Advice and Looking Ahead

Reflecting on her time at UofM, Ornella is most proud of successfully balancing academics, professional responsibilities, and personal growth while maintaining excellence. Her advice to future international graduate students is simple but powerful: be proactive, stay organized, ask for help, and get involved early—your community is one of your greatest strengths.

As she looks ahead, Ornella plans to continue building her career, applying the skills, leadership experience, and confidence she gained at the University of Memphis. She credits UofM’s hands-on learning opportunities and supportive environment with preparing her for this next chapter.

One of her favorite memories? The moment her study group first came together—stressed, tired, and confused—realizing together that graduate school was no joke. It’s a memory that perfectly captures her journey, which she describes in three words: resilient, transformative, and empowering.

Congratulations to Ornella Wayak Pambe, MBA, on graduating this winter and on an outstanding journey as a University of Memphis graduate student. 

December 2025