Applying to Harvard Business School's accelerated Executive MBA

Friends, I’m at a point in my career where I feel ready to step into a leadership role with a title. It’s been 12 years since I completed my early in career MBA. I’m eager to re-learn different areas of business, understand how AI has changed the business landscape from different POVs, and the latest in leadership research. I had also been looking for an Executive Coach to help me build a leadership vision, further develop my executive presence, and learn with world-class peers and faculty. My journey to this decision began when I learned about the Harvard Business School Program for Leadership Development (PLD) accelerated Executive MBA alternative during this course, Advancing Women of Color in Leadership, in May 2023. Intrigued, I delved into extensive research about multiple top-tiered accelerated and Executive MBA programs that I could complete while working full-time at Microsoft. Inevitably, I applied to Harvard Business School’s Program for Leadership Development 38 (PLD 38). Please, wish me luck!

You might be wondering why I chose to apply to this program. The PLD is an Executive MBA (EMBA) alternative designed for high-achieving business leaders and executives and it’s covering 2 years of content in 7 months time. It offers a world-class business education through a mix of on-campus and self-paced learning. The Program for Leadership Development curriculum is built around four highly integrated modules focused on leadership, change, and innovation. Participants learn through case studies, dynamic discussions, individual and group projects, visiting speakers, breakout feedback sessions, and world-class educators (the same ones that teach the MBA program). According to the HBS PLD page, this “learning experience is designed to fast-track your career by addressing your unique leadership objectives, business challenges, and professional development goals. You will become a more agile leader ready to identify problems, craft effective solutions, and adapt to global market shifts.”

Choosing any program is not an easy decision. As a high-performing individual, it’s challenging to take 1-2 years off from work mid-career when you’re likely making significant progress. This is also the time when further developing a unique leadership style—a personal leadership philosophy—can be incredibly beneficial. The PLD stands out as a great option for full-time, high-potential working professionals, offering the flexibility to balance work and study while gaining invaluable insights and skills.

In my research, I was particularly drawn to the real-world applications and the opportunity to engage with a diverse cohort of leaders from various industries. The thought of being part of a global network of alumni is incredibly motivating. I’m excited about the potential to learn from the best and bring those learnings back to my organization and personal business ventures.

Ultimately, my goal is to emerge from this program as a more effective, innovative leader ready to tackle new challenges and drive positive change. I’m eager to share this journey with you and reflect on the insights and growth that will come from this experience.

Thanks for reading,

Roxie