Reflections on Harvard Business School: A Journey of Leadership and Inclusivity

My time at Harvard Business School (HBS) was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It was a place where compassionate leadership and rich intellectual growth collided, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been a part of such a community. Reflecting on my time there, I realize that while the environment was often challenging, it was also filled with brilliance and diversity that contributed to my growth and development.

Exhilarating Learning Environment

Looking back, I can describe HBS in many ways, but perhaps the most fitting description is as a syrup of knowledge that was constantly pouring into my head. This analogy is particularly apt as the depth and richness of the information and insights I gained there had a lasting impact on my professional life. The unparalleled educational experience at HBS is etched in my memory, serving as a constant source of inspiration and motivation.

Memories of Clayton Christensen

One of the most significant professors I had was Clayton Christensen, the father of disruptive innovation. He taught Managing Innovation, and the course was a masterclass in leadership and strategic thinking. In his final class, Christensen emphasized a powerful lesson that resonates with me to this day: the way we manage and relate with our colleagues has a direct impact on the entire organization, extending to those beyond our immediate team.

He highlighted that if we chose to rudely scold an employee, the employee might take that negativity home, affecting their relationships and even their family. Conversely, if we lead with compassion and respect, it can create a positive ripple effect throughout the organization. Professor Christensen's approach to leadership, now commonly known as compassionate leadership, was a valuable lesson that has stayed with me long after I left HBS. The impact of such leadership style is immeasurable.

Challenges and Realities

While HBS was a golden opportunity, it was not without its challenges. It is essential to acknowledge the systemic racism and discrimination that exist within the institution. I personally observed instances where Hispanic students were subjected to systematic discrimination, and there were times when these students felt marginalized and unsupported. It is critical to recognize the racial and ethnic disparities within the school and understand the reality that Hispanic students have to navigate.

Unfortunately, addressing these issues can be challenging. There is no effective mechanism to address Hispanic grievances, and when attempts are made, they often go unanswered. Even emails sent to the school are met with silence. This is a stark reminder that there is still a long way to go in creating a truly inclusive environment at HBS.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my experience at HBS was a blend of innovation, leadership, and inclusivity. While the journey was not without its challenges, the lessons learned remain invaluable. Clayton Christensen's teachings on compassionate leadership and the recognition of systemic racism and discrimination have shaped my professional and personal life. I believe that by acknowledging these issues and actively working towards solutions, HBS can continue to be a beacon of excellence and inclusion.

Keywords

HBS, Leadership Education, Inclusive Environment