Thanks to the generosity of Catherine James Paglia (MBA 1976), the Search Fund Fellowship is a pilot program designed to enable graduating students from all socio-economic backgrounds to pursue a self-funded search and to encourage students to seek career opportunities at small operating companies in underserved communities, specifically those that have not traditionally attracted HBS MBAs.

The fellowship provides financial support of up to $60,000 per year to defray living and search costs, and is renewable for one year for total support of $120,000. During the fellowship period, HBS faculty will meet regularly with recipients to provide ongoing mentorship and guidance.

This program is funded by the Catherine James Paglia (MBA 1976) Search Fund Fellowship, which was established by Mrs. Catherine James Paglia (MBA 1976) in honor of her 45th Reunion. Ms. Paglia currently serves as a director of Enterprise Asset Management Inc.—a New York-based, privately held real estate and asset management company. In addition to her MBA from HBS, she holds an undergraduate degree from Carleton College.

Eligibility

The following criteria must be met to qualify for the Search Fund Fellowship: 

  • You are a graduating MBA student in good standing, who is interested in pursuing a self-funded search opportunity full-time after HBS.
  • You have demonstrated financial need based on your personal financial situation and your family’s financial circumstance, as determined by MBA Financial Aid.
  • Preference goes to applicants pursuing opportunities in underserved industries and geographies.

If you are a current HBS MBA student looking for information about the Search Fund Fellowship, please visit the Search Fund Fellowship webpage (myHBS login required).