During their Elective Curriculum (EC) year, MBA students at HBS select courses based on their interests. With over 100 offerings, these courses provide depth and expertise. We asked members of the MBA Class of 2024 about the courses that will help them succeed, why they pursued an MBA, and advice for prospective students.
Finance Tricia Peralta (MBA 2024): Took “Strategy and Value Creation” with Professor Benjamin Esty, which integrates multiple first-year courses. Tricia learned the value driver framework and how long-term economic sustainability can align with shareholder value. She pursued an MBA to reflect on her career and learn through the case method pedagogy.
Health Care Rhea Choudhury (MBA 2024): Took “Transforming Health Care Delivery” with Professor Ariel Stern and “Strategy and Technology” with Professor Andy Wu. She gained health care-specific knowledge and built fluency in technology. Rhea pursued an MBA to learn the business side of health care and make technology more affordable.
Social Enterprise Alan Neider (MBA 2024): Took “Public Entrepreneurship” with Professor Mitch Weiss. Alan learned how to nurture public sector entrepreneurship and identify opportunities for innovation. He pursued an MBA to round out his skillset and enhance his impact in social enterprise.
Technology Katherine Manweilier (MBA 2024): Took “Entrepreneurial Sales 101” with Senior Lecturers Mark Roberge and Lou Shipley. She developed dynamic sales techniques and a human-centric approach to sales. Katherine pursued an MBA to explore her entrepreneurial interests and build her startup, Montage.
Video Gaming Wabantu Hlohpe (MBA 2024): Took “Business of Entertainment, Media, and Sports” with Professor Anita Elberse and “Strategy and Technology” with Professor Andy Wu. Wabantu learned about the blockbuster strategy and cutting-edge technologies. He pursued an MBA to transition into the video game industry and gain in-depth industry knowledge.
These students highlight the importance of selecting courses that align with career goals, being open to new experiences, and leveraging the MBA to explore and build a robust professional network.
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