Navigating the Rigor of Harvard Business School: A Personal Insight

When it comes to discussions about the difficulty of earning an MBA from Harvard Business School (HBS), one might be quick to dismiss concerns as mere whispers of difficulty. After all, over 70% of students in the past semester received A’s, suggesting that the program is not overly challenging. This perspective can quickly deviate, however, when personal experiences and insights come into play. Personal anecdotes, such as the author’s journey from the challenges of military service to the rigors of business school, provide a nuanced view of the demands of the program.

The Myth of the Easy Path

A simplistic view suggests that one can simply become an A student with minimal effort. However, the truth is far more complex and demanding. In my 50th College Reunion in 2017, a personal reflection of my time at HBS shed light on the true nature of the academic rigor faced by students. Discussing the Vietnam War era as part of our collective memory, I shared insights on how my military service and the subsequent challenges of business school interlaced.

A Reluctant Soldier to a Happy Alumnus

My journey began in the early 1970s, when the Vietnam War was still a significant part of our lives. Despite my opinions and other paths, the draft was an unavoidable reality. I chose to enlist instead, believing that enlisting for the Army for three years would be better than being drafted for two years. My hope was that I could still pursue my academic goals post-enlistment. However, this plan required careful consideration, as I needed to ensure that I maintained my academic standing.

One aspect of my story that stands out is the HBS application. Without the experience gained from a few years of job experience in the Army and a recommendation from a colonel, I might not have been accepted. This emphasis on practical experience and personal development underscores the importance of the full experience in shaping one's readiness for business school.

Developing Study Habits and Self-Discipline

My experience in the military also taught me valuable lessons about myself. Struggles with poor study habits during college became a recognized issue only when I faced the rigors of business school. The Army provided a structure that enabled me to develop maturity and self-discipline, despite my initial reluctance. This development was crucial, as it prepared me for the unique challenges of the HBS program.

Real World Training at HBS

The HBS program is explicitly designed to simulate the real-world environment of the business world, where time is often limited, and feedback is infrequent. The curriculum is not just academically rigorous; it is also meant to mimic the demands and pressures of professional settings. My military experience was invaluable in equipping me to handle the grind of the HBS program, particularly during the first year.

Almost all of us, despite the difficulties, managed to navigate and overcome the challenges. The first year is indeed a grind, but the experiences and lessons learned are invaluable. The program’s design ensures that students are prepared for the demands of the professional world, both in terms of academic rigor and work-life balance.

Conclusion

Harvard Business School is a rigorous academic environment that demands hard work, discipline, and maturity. While it might be challenging, the rewards of the experience are immense, both personally and professionally. By drawing from personal anecdotes and insights, it becomes clear that the HBS program is designed to not just teach, but to equip students with the skills necessary to excel in the real world.