MBA

Profiles

Amy Flikerski, MBA 2009

Amy Flikerski sought an MBA "for the growth experience" and found HBS sympathetic to one of the high standards she sets for herself: professionalism. "When you meet with admissions, they never directly compare HBS to other institutions," Amy says. "Instead, they let the school stand on its own merits, in particular its commitment to making leaders."

Indeed, the entire campus demonstrated the kind of openness and respect Amy values. "There is a great LGBT community here that defies stereotypes. We're from the military, finance, investment banking, every kind of business or career. Everyone feels welcome on campus."

Rich perspectives

The case method, Amy says, "encourages a rich flow of conversation from many different points of view shared in a respectful manner. It's an excellent way to get at the heart of difficult issues." The international diversity of the student body also creates a higher level of conversation. "Most of my business experience has been in the United States," says Amy. "At HBS, we get discussions from multiple – and sometimes complex – angles, like the Indian-born student who talked about working in a Swiss pharmaceutical company breaking into North American markets."

The combination of the case method and diverse perspectives leads to a superior aptitude for leadership, Amy believes. "Our classes continually make us aware that there is never one clear answer, that you have to be aware of the pros and cons of each choice. Though you can rarely have certainty, you can be more thoughtful and diligent in choosing your options."

The variety of student activities also enriches the MBA experience. During the winter break, Amy climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro with 43 students and their partners, "a great time to develop strong friendships and lasting connections."

Growing portfolios

On campus, Amy is active in the Investment Management Club where she is one of the portfolio managers of the Alpha Fund, a student-led fund with $150,000 in assets. Club members take turns pitching stocks each week before a vote of the full membership.

The experience complements Amy's post-MBA ambitions. "I personally want to continue growing as a manager and a leader," she says. "I want the ability to work as a portfolio manager in an international setting where I have the power to make a positive social impact."