Why Students Love Harvard Business School: Insights and Experiences
Harvard Business School (HBS) is often seen as one of the top business schools in the world, with its unique case-study methodology and extensive alumni network. However, beyond these well-known attributes, there are several compelling reasons why students choose to attend HBS and find it enriching. This article explores the experiences of recent MBA students and highlights the key factors that led them to make this life-changing decision.
Unique Experiences and Academic Rigor
The academic rigor and intellectual environment at HBS set it apart from many other business schools. One student, for example, stated:
“I loved being surrounded by people who were smarter than me. I have never been so intellectually challenged as when I was in Harvard Business School”
This challenge and intellectual stimulation are a hallmark of the HBS experience, making it not just a place to earn a degree, but also a platform for personal and professional growth.
Opportunities and Networking
Opportunities and the strong alumni network significantly influence student decisions. A student shared:
“Opportunity. In a 24-hour span I attended the HBS Tech Conference met classmates from around the world who were extremely accomplished and inspiring yet incredibly humble had candid conversations about personal growth with easily-accessible alumni and participated in thought-provoking QA with Dean Nohria exhibiting leadership values to which I fully aligned. I was more confident I found the right program when I thought: How rewarding would it be if every day was as enriching as today I had too many items to list in my gratitude journal that day!”
These experiences highlight the diverse opportunities available at HBS, from technology conferences to leadership development programs, that create a rich and fulfilling educational experience.
Family-Friendly Environment
For students who bring their families along to pursue an MBA, HBS offers a warm and inclusive environment. Another student emphasized:
“Since I knew I would be coming to business school with a wife and two children it was really important to me that they feel welcome and included on campus and I had the chance to speak with several families on campus who had really great experiences. HBS not only allows students to live on campus with their families but also has numerous clubs and activities for partners and children that I know will help my family make new long-lasting friendships and feel at home at HBS.”
The family-friendly atmosphere at HBS, including on-campus living options and a variety of family-oriented activities, ensures that all members of the family feel supported during the MBA journey.
Community and Commitment to Global Impact
Commitment to community and global impact is another key factor. A student shared:
“The HBS commitment to Africa evidenced by programs like the Go Africa fellowship and the various Africa-focused courses, clubs, and events was a big factor for me. I’m determined to return to Africa post-HBS to continue developing technology and infrastructure projects and to hone my skills and capabilities as a business leader in Africa. As such it was very important that I attend a school that could provide the resources, network, and support to do that.”
The school’s commitment to global causes and the availability of specialized programs and resources for students to make a difference in the world are significant drawcards for students passionate about creating an impact.
Practical Learning and Entrepreneurial Opportunities
HBS is known for its practical and hands-on approach, which serves students well in the business world. A student said:
“A key factor was the sheer amount of programs that help students practice self-efficacy translating their theories in the classroom into real-world practice. The Innovation Lab and the Rock Center for Entrepreneurship, for example, enable students to practice making better business decisions via projects they can collaborate on or new ventures they can run. Much like the case study method these programs are founded and led by professors who have impacted these very fields including Professor Michael Porter who built principles of Social Entrepreneurship and Professor Howard Stevenson the driver of Entrepreneurship studies at HBS. Coming from the Valley I was particularly excited about the opportunity to learn the principles of building a company in the Startup Bootcamp, New Venture Competition, and the President’s Innovation Challenge. I felt that Harvard was better positioned to help me fine-tune by being outside of the Valley and amongst a variety of experts and interests.”
The practical application of theories and the diverse array of entrepreneurial programs provide students with a comprehensive set of skills and experiences that prepare them for success in the business world.
In conclusion, Harvard Business School offers a unique blend of intellectual stimulation, diverse opportunities, and a strong community that makes it an attractive choice for MBA students. The experiences and insights shared by recent students demonstrate the value and benefits of attending HBS, making it a top-tier program for those seeking a transformative educational journey.