What will be your next step after graduation?
Senior Product Manager, CVS Health

Where will you be living?
Boston, MA

In what ways has Harvard Extension School impacted your career and long-term professional goals?
Harvard University was a turning point in both my professional development and personal growth. Earning my Master in Management, along with certificates in Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship & Innovation, gave me a strong foundation in leadership, business strategy, and creative problem-solving. The faculty were incredibly knowledgeable and challenged me to think beyond conventional approaches. I especially valued the opportunity to work alongside peers from all over the world—each with different backgrounds, perspectives, and insights. It pushed me to become more open-minded, adaptable, and collaborative. Overall, the experience has sharpened my management skills and ignited a passion for innovation. I now approach challenges with a broader mindset and the confidence to lead with both vision and empathy.

 

What advice do you have for HES students now that you have graduated?
As a recent grad reflecting on the journey, here’s what I’d share with current Harvard Extension School students:

1. Be an active participant, not just a student. Some of my most meaningful experiences came from engaging beyond the coursework—joining project groups, virtual events, and student-led discussions. Don’t wait for opportunities; seek them out.

2. Lean into the diversity of your peers. HES brings together learners from all walks of life. Each interaction, whether in a breakout room or online forum,is a chance to expand your perspective. Listen deeply, share openly, and learn collaboratively.

3. Take full advantage of Harvard resources. The Harvard Library system is a treasure trove, the Harvard writing center, the Harvard Innovation Labs (i-lab), and the Office of Career Services can open unexpected doors. For those interested in entrepreneurship or innovation, the i-lab is particularly impactful.

4. Build relationships with faculty. Professors at HES are not only experts in their fields, they’re deeply invested in your growth. Don’t hesitate to reach out during office hours or after class. The connections you make can shape your career path long after graduation.
What you put into this experience comes back tenfold. It’s not just about gaining a credential; it’s about becoming the kind of leader, thinker, and collaborator who’s ready to make an impact.

 

 

Work Experience
Location
Boston, MA
Communities
Business & Entrepreneurship, Fashion, Retail, Consumer Products, Hospitality, Students of Color
Contact
LinkedIn
@royrajiv