Home Region
McLean, VA
Undergrad Education
Virginia Polytechnic & State University, 2018
Previous Experience
General Motors, PepsiCo, Paul’s Landscaping & Repair Services
HBS Activities
Harvard i-lab Student Advisory Board member, Executive Education/MBA liaison, Section H Admissions Rep, Entrepreneurship Club, AI Collective, Outdoors Club, MENA Club, Improv Club
“The best leaders listen and connect with others. They inspire each person to unleash their unique, full potential.”
Coming to HBS is like…
Going on a first date with the person you’ve had a crush on for years.
What is your most memorable classroom moment?
My first cold call. During a case study on a struggling shoe company, my professor started the class by asking: “Paul, is this company going to be around in 10 years?” The CEO of the company and his executive team were sitting across from me. I managed to look straight at them and share my honest thoughts…
What is your favorite childhood memory?
My first business venture in 7th grade. I sold snacks out of my locker by hiding them inside hollowed-out books. My customers would return the books to me after class with the cash inside. Before graduating 8th grade, I had my first business exit, selling my inventory and assets to a rising 8th grader named Ricky. Unfortunately, on the day of the acquisition, my teacher caught us (sorry Mrs. Keating!) and shut down the business.
What is the best thing about your hometown?
Growing up inside the Washington, D.C. beltway, I was constantly surround by diverse communities, cultures, thoughts, and delicious food--especially the Lebanese dishes!
What has changed about your understanding of leadership?
I used to think leadership was all about confidence, courage, and resilience. But now, I realize true leadership can be more subtle, requiring empathy, passion, and patience. The best leaders listen and connect with others. They inspire each person to unleash their unique, full potential.