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MBA Voices
MBA Voices
Clicking the submit button on my SVMP application felt like an act of courage, one that left me feeling vulnerable and open to rejection, a sentiment likely shared by many of my peers. As we each prepared, reviewed, and submitted our applications, the vulnerability involved in the process prompted me to reflect and truly determine my motivation and what I hoped to gain from the experience. Throughout the program, we were encouraged to take risks and recalibrate through internal case preparation and case discussions. I also had the opportunity to give one of the student speeches at our closing ceremony. Despite my initial fears, SVMP provided me with a safe environment to grow in this regard, too. [...]
It's been quite a year for HBS students, and as 2023 comes to a close we wanted to share some of the highlights from the MBA Voices Blog. [...]
It was January of 2022 when I stumbled upon the homepage of Harvard Business School’s Summer Venture in Management Program (SVMP) while browsing a music industry leader’s LinkedIn page. At the time, with my background in music, non-profit management, and music therapy, I was under the impression that my skill set was not aligned with the demands of business school, let alone a highly-acclaimed institution like Harvard. [...]
I am a huge advocate for diversity and inclusion, especially in the business world, and I knew that Harvard Business School is committed to removing all barriers to opportunity. I was therefore excited to immerse myself in an environment where I get to learn and connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. I knew that if I had the chance to attend the program, it would introduce me to a unique experience, expand my knowledge of business and leadership education, and enhance my tangible skills that could be applied to my future work experiences. [...]
When the email arrived – “HBS SVMP Decision Available Online” – it caught me by surprise. I took a breath and read the message: Accepted! As I planned my trip to attend HBS’s Summer Venture in Management Program, I saw scenes of Cambridge rolling like a film in my mind’s eye: discussing case studies with vigor and enthusiasm in the dorm common areas; receiving the infamous “HBS cold call” from Professor Anita Elberse, or worse, from Lebron James, Beyoncé, LL Cool J, or the many other case protagonists she likes to “bring to life”; dashing with my classmates to make it to breakfast and morning discussion groups; and trading stories of life experiences and sidesplitting tales of professional gaffes in the HBS courtyard. Whatever awaited me at Harvard Business School, I thought, would be unforgettable. [...]
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The views and opinions expressed in the MBA Voices blog are those of the authors.
Any political views shared by students are their own; HBS does not endorse a
particular party or candidate.