MBA

Evan Rachlin

New therapies, especially those in biotechnology, are very exciting to Evan Rachlin. In his first business-related internship, Evan examined the economic side of life science at Pfizer in New York City. There, he cooperated with the portfolio and decision analysis group, valuing acquisition targets—companies, drugs, and licenses—while applying game theory to improve the way Pfizer makes decisions. Satisfying as it was, the job whetted Evan's appetite for a larger role. "I believe I can make a difference if I work hard," says Evan. "But I can have an even greater impact if I can motivate others to perform at their peak."

Experiencing management in action

Evan applied to the joint MD/MBA program to "learn how to work in and manage large teams," a necessary prerequisite to success in private-sector product development. "The Medical School has some case-based learning, but HBS offers even more opportunities to learn by doing, to give presentations and cooperate in teams," Evan says. "There are lots of lessons I can learn from faculty and students in other industries—lessons I'd like to apply to health care."

As Evan has already experienced as a medical student, business issues are an inescapable reality for any physician. While shadowing a pediatrician in private practice, he noticed the tension between the busy physician and a pharmaceutical representative eager for her attention. For 45 minutes, the doctor ignored the man. "Finally," Evan says, "she walked over, signed a paper, took a few samples, then kicked the rep out." There were multiple lessons: "Like it or not," Evan notes, "health care is a big business. But there has to be a better way to market a product than to impose yourself on physicians; marketers have to find ways to respect physicians and their patients." But doctors cannot ignore their dependence on the marketplace, either. "Doctors are aware they have patients who can't afford the right drugs. You can't write scrips with blinders on; you can't just see the science. For better or worse, you have to account for the economics."

Improving relationships

Evan hasn't selected his specialty yet, but knows he's interested in combining medicine with business. "One of the beauties of the program is the diversity of interests," Evan says. "Regardless of the path I choose, I'll have met people who can help me achieve my goals, and whom I can help, too. In my career, I want to help healthcare companies and providers work together effectively, efficiently, and harmoniously."