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