Exploring My MBA Journey

Last Updated on March 9, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

Elizabeth Barrett, a senior at Cornell School of Hospitality, had her eyes opened to the possibility of pursuing an MBA thanks to a chance encounter with a Harvard Business School alumnus. This encounter led her to participate in Peek, a virtual introductory look at the MBA experience hosted by HBS MBA Admissions team.

The three-day program included case discussions, panel discussions, and sessions with students, faculty, and alumni. Barrett was not alone in her newfound interest in pursuing an MBA, as Brooks Lin, a senior at the University of Texas at Austin, also found the case method discussion to be a highlight of the program.

HBS offers pipeline programs like Peek to introduce college students to the idea of pursuing an MBA, regardless of their background. Youngme Moon, faculty chair of the pipeline programs, believes they help cultivate a strong community built on shared values.

The goal of the pipeline programs is to strengthen the connection between undergraduate students and MBA offerings at HBS. Moon emphasizes the value of case method teaching and participatory learning in these programs, as they provide a unique and immersive experience for prospective students.

After her Peek experience, Barrett reflected on her time in the program and realized that she could see herself thriving in a case method classroom. Engaging in discussions and conversations with students and alumni allowed her to envision herself as a future MBA candidate at Harvard Business School.

Overall, Peek and other pipeline programs at HBS are helping to inspire the next generation of MBA candidates and create a diverse and dynamic community of future business leaders.