Skydeck Voices: The Most Important Person I Met at HBS
Sep 19, 2023
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Alumni share stories of lifelong friendships, supportive roommates, and finding love through chance encounters at HBS. The influence of Professor Hank Riling and the impact of Professor Francis Fry and Professor Ryan Buell on academic journeys. Discussion on impactful mentors and startup co-founders. Reflecting on meeting a spouse at HBS and starting a family together.
Forming lasting friendships at HBS can have a significant impact on individuals' lives.
Dedicated and inspiring professors at HBS can profoundly influence personal and professional development.
Deep dives
Importance of Lifelong Friendships
Several alumni from HBS highlight the importance of the friendships they formed during their time at the school. For example, Lou Hughes shares how his roommate, Pierre, became a lifelong friend who stood by him through ups and downs. Similarly, Dimitri and Marissa Kalachonuk recount how a chance encounter at a dinner led to a deep connection, resulting in a lasting marriage and three children. These stories demonstrate the lasting impact that friendships made at HBS can have on individuals' lives.
Influential Professors Shaping Lives
Multiple alumni mention the profound influence of certain professors on their personal and professional development. Faith Kendrick Kindman shares how Professor Hank Riling, who taught tax law, went beyond the material to encourage students to think about their lives as human beings. Michelle Schell and Rahul Mambling also express their admiration for Professor Fry and Professor Bill George, respectively, emphasizing their mentorship and the way they inspired students to set high standards and pursue their passions. These examples highlight the transformative impact of dedicated and inspiring educators at HBS.
Launching Startups and Finding Business Partners
For some alumni, HBS played a pivotal role in connecting them with co-founders or business partners. Nicole found her startup co-founder through a mutual connection and a professor's recommendation, leading them on a journey to start a successful venture. Nadine Guabet-Lodler credits professors Francis Fry and Ryan Buell for inspiring her as she embarked on her doctoral studies. These instances showcase how HBS serves as a hub for fostering entrepreneurial collaborations and providing opportunities for future business ventures.