Impact Story

Before HBS, Laura Mackay had reached a point in her career where she had achieved leadership positions, but needed to take her management skillset to the next level. “Having taken a rigorous engineering curriculum as an undergraduate, I wanted the opportunity to learn business principles in an academic setting,” says Laura. “I also wanted to be at the forefront of health care innovation, and HBS was a logical next step. Harvard’s extensive network and Boston’s reputation as a hub for health care and technology offered the best environment.”

Laura notes that the School’s vast array of activities related to health care—from alumni mentoring to summer internships—helped her more deeply explore different health sectors and hone her career interest. “I discovered that I’m passionate about the use of technology and services to empower consumers to play a more informed role in their own health care,” she says. “With that information, I was then able to plan my second year more intentionally. I selected courses that aligned with my new career interest and designed an independent project around personalizing care delivery and engaging patients in more meaningful ways.” 

Most important, HBS helped Laura grow both professionally and personally. “The HBS case method pushed me to think critically and quickly build an impactful argument and influence people,” she says. “It is through this immersive learning approach that leaders are made.”

Through the support of the Health Care Club, coupled with the insight from her alumni mentors, Laura was able to identify companies and industry positions that spoke to her new career interest. “I have been very fortunate to have phenomenal health care alumni mentors who guided me with thoughtful advice throughout my journey.”