Alliyah Gary, Harvard Business School MBA Class of 2024
Age: 26
Hometown: Columbus, OH
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Howard University; Accounting
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): 4 years in Healthcare Strategy Consulting
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
My personal healthcare battles ignited my passion for healthcare, but my experience as a healthcare strategy consultant further affirmed my desire to be at the forefront of healthcare change and innovation. To achieve my career goals and continue advancing healthcare, I need an MBA to expand my healthcare industry knowledge, develop my analytical skills, and cultivate exceptional leadership abilities. Given the pandemic and rapid innovation in the space, there is no time better than now!
Why did you choose Harvard Business School? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Harvard Business School for its unparalleled brand and prestige, focus on learning business through real-world examples facilitated by the case study method, the prominent and large network, as well as the strong presence of biotech and healthcare in Boston. Ultimately, I believe HBS will best prepare me for my post-MBA goals.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Harvard MBA Class of 2024?
As one who comes from humble beginnings, but also experienced privilege, I understand both worlds. With this perspective, I serve as an advocate, change agent and community builder striving to bridge the gap between the two and thus further enhancing the culture and community of my class.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I aspire to travel to all 7 continents before 30… yes, even Antarctica.
Post-MBA career interests:
I am excited about playing at the intersection of healthcare, technology and equity post-MBA. I am most interested in careers at venture capital and digital health tech firms.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would absolutely participate in MLT’s MBA Prep Program again. The program helped me connect with admissions officers at top programs, build confidence in my story and application, and ultimately, prepared me for success in business school.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would have pivoted from the GMAT to GRE sooner. I struggled for over 2 years with the GMAT, trying 3 different prep courses and even hiring a tutor, but was still unable to reach my target score. Once I finally pivoted to the GRE, I had immediate success. In hindsight, I could have saved myself time, stress, and money.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I could have skipped the anxiety-riddled phase where I was constantly worried about my test scores. Admission officers really do assess all parts of your candidacy and test scores are merely one aspect of that. What ultimately helped me overcome this anxiety was building confidence in my story and other parts of my application.
What is your initial impression of the Harvard Business School students/culture/community?
My initial impression of the HBS community is how diverse it is. In my section alone there are 93 students, 25 countries represented, 33 languages spoken, and a vast wealth of knowledge and expertise across all industries. I have never been in such an inspiring and riveting space!
What is one thing you have learned about Harvard Business School that has surprised you?
HBS is truly a very collaborative place. Prior to admission, I envisioned HBS as an extremely competitive, unwelcoming environment; however, I’ve already realized, while HBS students are highly ambitious and motivated, everyone is always willing to help and intentionally looking to build community.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
In my first year, I am most anxious about finding balance amongst all the competing priorities – academics, clubs, travel, social activities and recruiting. There’s always something going on! It’s important for me to remember my “why” and prioritize according to my goals.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about further expanding my world view and perspectives as I learn from and about my classmates. With over 1,000 first year candidates, the connections I can make, the things I can learn, and opportunities – both professionally and socially – are endless.
