Thalia Rey, an MBA 2025 student at Harvard Business School, reflects on how her Cuban heritage and upbringing in Jacksonville, Florida shaped her journey to HBS. Raised in a strong immigrant community that believed deeply in the American Dream, she always felt supported in her academic pursuits.
As the first in her circle to pursue investment banking and private equity, Thalia often felt at a disadvantage without industry connections. Yet, her community rallied behind her, helping her prepare for interviews and reminding her of the power of hard work and perseverance.
For Thalia, being Latino means recognizing the support of a vibrant community that continues to uplift her as she strives to make a difference in the world.
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