From College Freshman to Harvard Business School: A Journey Through Early Outreach and Admission

I had the privilege of being a part of a unique period in American history, graduating from college in 1967 during the Vietnam War. Being a member of the military draft, I served a three-year enlistment in the Army, which included serving at the US Army Intelligence School (USAINTS).

Connecting with the Admissions Committee at Harvard Business School (HBS)

While in the Army, I was eager to set a plan for my future. In the fall of 1969, I called the HBS Admissions Office, inquiring about the application process and the availability of an application package. The package arrived via mail, and as a Harvard College alumnus, I was already familiar with both HBS and its programs. Thus, I did not seek an interview since I was confident in my background and experience from my undergraduate years.

Initial Outreach and Application Process

To take the next step, I diligently completed all the necessary application requirements. This included submitting a questionnaire with typical personal background information, providing a GMAT score, and supplying the required grade transcript from my college. Additionally, I obtained two letters of recommendation – one academic and one from my employment. The latter, written by my commanding officer, who was a Lieutenant Colonel, was particularly strong and beneficial in my application process.

Communication After Application

After submitting my application, I maintained a professional and regular communication with the HBS Admissions Office. I was keen to keep them updated and to express my genuine interest in the program. This interaction was not just about ensuring my application was processed but also to inquire about any additional information or updates that could contribute to my application.

Admission and Transition

Following a process that included thorough review, I received my HBS acceptance letter early in 1970. Notably, shortly after receiving the acceptance, I was discharged from the Army and enrolled at HBS in September of that year. The integration into the HBS community was a smooth process, made easier by the strong recommendation from my commanding officer.

Looking back, the experience of reaching out early and maintaining communication with the Admissions Committee at HBS played a crucial role in my acceptance. It showed my proactive approach to securing a place among the academic elites and my commitment to achieving my future goals.

Conclusion

The journey from a college freshman to Harvard Business School is a testament to the importance of proactive outreach and sustained communication. Early and consistent engagement with the admissions process can significantly enhance one's chances of acceptance. My experience is a clear reminder that what my commanding officer wrote in his letter of recommendation was more than I had hoped for, and it was instrumental in securing my place at the school. This story serves as an inspiration for aspiring students looking to make their mark at HBS.

Keywords: Harvard Business School Admission, Military Service Experience, Early Outreach