Kelsey Roberts’ path to Harvard Business School was anything but typical. In this episode, she shares how she applied through the 2+2 program as an engineering student at Georgia Tech and used her deferral to explore manufacturing, entrepreneurship, and workforce development. Kelsey discusses her unique application strategy, the decision to wait four years before starting at HBS, and how her MBA has shaped her impact at Forage. Whether you’re an early-career applicant or exploring nontraditional MBA paths, Kelsey’s story offers inspiration and insight.

Keywords

MBA, HBS, Radhika Lokur, application process, career pivot, international development, social impact, education, networking, tech industry

Summary

Radhika Lokur’s journey to Harvard Business School defies convention. In this episode, she opens up about her background in international development, navigating the MBA application process, and pivoting into a tech role in London. From GMAT challenges to building community at HBS, Radhika shares practical insights for applicants considering bold career shifts – and reminds us that the MBA path doesn’t have to be traditional to be transformative.

Takeaways

• Radhika's diverse background helped her stand out in the MBA application process.
• Networking and leveraging the HBS community were crucial for her career pivot.
• She faced significant challenges during her GMAT testing experience.
• Radhika emphasizes the importance of knowing your goals before starting an MBA.
• She believes that an MBA is not necessary for everyone, especially those with tech backgrounds.
• Her experience at HBS was transformative, both personally and professionally.
• Radhika created a London trek to connect with tech companies, showcasing initiative.
• She advises future applicants to be mindful of the number of pivots they attempt.
• Radhika found that people at HBS were more supportive than she initially expected.
• She reflects on the importance of balancing perspectives in the classroom.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Radhika Lokur

02:39 Living and Working in Zambia

03:34 Pivoting into Tech

04:39 MBA Application Strategy

06:18 Value of the MBA

07:35 School Selection

08:48 Application Results

09:10 Application Journey Challenges

09:28 GMAT Horror Story

11:57 Application Reflections

12:25 Application Strengths

13:50 HBS Interview Experience

15:01 Choosing HBS

16:24 Pros and Cons of HBS

18:35 HBS Classroom Dynamics

19:03 HBS Myths and Misconceptions

19:41 Landing a Role in Big Tech in London

23:15 Winning Friends and Influencing People

24:10 The Innovator's Dilemma

24:46 HBS Community in London

26:07 Advice for Career Pivoters

27:31 Radhika Interview Debrief

Keywords

MBA, entrepreneurship, career progression, application process, HBS, business school, leadership, search fund, COVID-19, networking

Summary

In this conversation, Bob Boniface shares his journey from working at General Motors to pursuing an MBA at Harvard Business School and eventually transitioning into entrepreneurship through acquisition. He discusses the value of an MBA, the application process, the impact of COVID-19 on his business school experience, and the lessons learned while running a business post-MBA. Bob emphasizes the importance of networking, being open to new opportunities, and the skills gained from an MBA that have helped him in his entrepreneurial journey.

Takeaways

• Bob's background in finance and operations at GM set a strong foundation for his MBA journey.
• The decision to pursue an MBA was influenced by observing successful leaders in his field.
• Crafting a compelling application requires time and thoughtful preparation.
• Networking is crucial in the MBA application process and beyond.
• COVID-19 impacted the MBA experience, but Bob found value in the relationships formed.
• The search fund model allows for entrepreneurship without starting from scratch.
• Running a business post-MBA requires a diverse skill set and adaptability.
• The HBS brand can open doors, but credibility is built through actions and decisions.
• Bob's future aspirations include returning to the auto industry in a leadership role.
• Keeping an open mind about career paths can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Bob Boniface
01:00 Bob's Pre-MBA Career
03:30 The Decision to Pursue an MBA
07:34 Crafting a Compelling Application
11:47 The HBS Interview
12:54 Essay Writing and LORs
14:43 Application Process Challenges
15:33 Original HBS Essay Prompt
15:55 LOR Wisdom
17:40 Deciding to Attend HBS During COVID
19:38 HBS Highlights
21:20 Transitioning from GM to Entrepreneurship
23:04 Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition
25:45 ETA with a Co-Founder/Co-CEO
27:22 Bob's Business Partner
28:15 Owning and Operating a Small Business
31:19 HBS Brand Considerations and Reflections
33:13 Medium- and Long-Term Career Plans
34:58 Advice for Prospective MBA Applicants
36:41 Evaluating Bob's Applicant Profile
38:26 Bob's Application Process and Preparation
40:21 Insights from Bob's MBA Experience

Keywords

MBA, HBS, international students, application process, finance, blockchain, career pivot, education, networking, personal growth

Summary

In this episode, Lesley shares her journey from Korea to HBS, discussing her unique background in blockchain and international relations. She reflects on her decision to pursue an MBA, the application process, and the importance of self-reflection. Lesley highlights her experiences at HBS, the challenges of being an international student, and how her education has shaped her career in corporate finance. She offers valuable advice for prospective MBA students, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation and self-awareness.

Takeaways

• Lesley's diverse background in blockchain and international relations made her a strong candidate for HBS.
• The importance of self-reflection in the MBA application process cannot be overstated.
• Networking is a crucial aspect of the MBA experience, providing valuable connections and opportunities.
• HBS's case study method prepares students for real-world challenges in a unique way.
• International students face additional challenges in the application process, including visa and financial considerations.
• Lesley's experience in a leadership development program allowed her to gain international exposure and skills.
• The HBS community offers ongoing support and networking opportunities post-graduation.
• It's essential to have a structured study plan for standardized tests like the GRE or GMAT.
• Prospective students should consider their personal and professional goals before committing to an MBA.
• Taking the TOEFL and preparing transcripts early can ease the application process for international students.

Chapters

00:00 Leslie's Journey to HBS
05:41 Crafting a Compelling Narrative
10:40 Post-MBA Career Path and International Experience
13:50 School Selection
15:29 Advice for Prospective International Applicants
17:01 Financial Aid at HBS
19:29 HBS Highlights
21:39 How the Case Method Translates to the Real World
22:31 FOMO
23:56 Career Post-MBA
25:02 Applying HBS Learnings Post-MBA
26:25 Cold Calls IRL
26:48 HBS Community
29:26 Final Advice
32:23 Reflecting on Lesley's Application
34:40 Application Process Insights
37:04 Value of an MBA Experience

Keywords
Ananya Zutshi, MBA journey, HBS, entrepreneurship, biotech, networking, career clarity, resilience, leadership, personal growth
Summary
In this conversation, Ananya Zutshi shares her inspiring journey from her early life in India to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the biotech industry after completing her MBA at Harvard Business School. The discussion covers her educational background, the challenges she faced during her application process, the importance of networking, and the valuable lessons learned about leadership and interpersonal dynamics. Ananya emphasizes the significance of introspection and resilience in navigating her career path, as well as the impact of her MBA experience on her entrepreneurial endeavors.
Takeaways

• Ananya's journey reflects the power of resilience and adaptability.
• Networking is crucial for success in the biotech industry.
• Introspection is key to understanding career goals and aspirations.
• The case method at HBS fosters critical thinking and communication skills.
• Emotional intelligence is vital in leadership and team dynamics.
• Rejection can lead to growth and better preparation for future opportunities.
• The entrepreneurial spirit is nurtured in MBA programs like HBS.
• Building credibility through a strong network is essential for entrepreneurs.
• Social connections in business school enhance learning and opportunities.
• Ananya's experience highlights the importance of pursuing one's passion.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ananya Dzuchi
01:02 Ananya's Early Life and Education
02:57 Career Path and Industry Experience
05:06 The Decision to Pursue an MBA
09:10 Application Journey and Insights
12:34 Lessons from Rejection and Reflection
15:39 The Entrepreneurial Spark
18:24 Navigating Business School Opportunities
21:01 Comparing MS MBA and HBS Experience
23:15 Classroom Dynamics: HBS vs Engineering School
24:22 Memorable MBA Experiences
26:16 The Power of Persuasion and Critical Thinking
28:28 Navigating Corporate Dynamics
30:23 The Value of Networking
34:35 Advice for Future MBA Candidates
39:01 Introduction and Overview of Ananya's Journey
42:01 The Application Process: Lessons Learned
45:04 The Value of Networking in an MBA Program
47:48 Building Confidence and Critical Thinking Skills

USC Marshall MBA candidate Kate van Keulen shares how she secured a generous scholarship – even when friends and colleagues questioned the value of business school. Hear how her “scrappy research” and negotiation skills earned her $50K off tuition, plus the mindset shift that kept her focused on what she knew was right for her career. If you’re looking to fund your MBA journey, Kate’s story is a must-listen. Enjoy!

Wondering if an MBA is essential for success? In this episode, Harvard Business School grad Behram O’Habib (Class of 2021) explains why you don’t need an MBA – and yet how his own experience delivered tremendous value, especially as an aspiring entrepreneur. Hear how Behram’s time at HBS shaped his ventures, sharpened his leadership skills, and connected him with a thriving support system. If you’re on the fence about business school or looking to build something of your own, Behram’s journey offers a refreshingly honest take on what an MBA can (and can’t) do for you. Enjoy!

Curious how an MBA can transform your idea of success? Join Michael Mancinelli, a 2021 graduate of Harvard Business School’s 2+2 program, as he shares how his early-admit MBA journey helped him see “success” in a completely new light. Hear his top application tips – including one essay strategy that’s helped five out of six mentees get into HBS – and discover how clarity of purpose can give you a serious edge. If you’re looking to elevate your business school candidacy and rethink what “success” really means, you don’t want to miss this episode.