My Journey to Harvard

Balancing Entrepreneurship and Continuous Learning

After successfully completing the Executive Program in Business, Entertainment, Media, and Sports a few months ago, I’ve now set my sights on the accelerated Executive MBA at Harvard Business School. Embarking on a journey towards higher education is often a pivotal decision, and for me, the decision to join Harvard Business School while simultaneously building my venture studio was a momentous one. As an entrepreneur, the pursuit of knowledge has always been a guiding force, and Harvard presented the perfect opportunity to take my learning to new heights.

I’ve long believed in the power of continuous learning. The idea that one should never stop seeking knowledge resonates deeply with me. While steering my venture studio, I found myself craving a more profound understanding of corporate strategy, M&A, and marketing strategy. It’s not just about the practical applications but understanding the theories, frameworks, and nuances that can shape a successful business.

The decision to return to school wasn’t solely driven by a desire for academic achievement; it was about personal growth and self-awareness. Recognizing the need to refine my leadership skills, I embraced the opportunity to work with a 1:1 coach. This introspective journey allowed me to assess my strengths, address weaknesses, and cultivate a leadership style that aligns with my entrepreneurial vision.

Investing in oneself is a philosophy I hold dear. If you aspire to play on the highest level, you must be willing to invest in your own development continually. Harvard, as one of the world’s top-ranked universities, offered the ideal platform for such an investment. The prospect of learning from some of the brightest minds across various industries was not only enticing but a crucial step in my personal and professional evolution.

One of the unique aspects of the Harvard experience is the depth of learning it provides. It goes beyond understanding concepts or reading materials; it’s about engaging with real-world cases, dissecting complex problems, and collaborating with diverse perspectives. The emphasis on case analysis has been particularly enlightening, offering a hands-on approach to learning that is both challenging and rewarding.

Collaborating with top talents from around the world has been a highlight of my time at Harvard. The exchange of ideas with professionals from Google, Coca Cola, Deloitte, Saudi Investment bankers, Apple, and many more has broadened my horizons. It’s not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about gaining insights that can only come from a diverse and global cohort.

As I navigate the intricate landscape of business and entrepreneurship, Harvard has become a beacon of inspiration and a catalyst for growth. The intersection of academic rigor, real-world application, and the chance to interact with the brightest minds in the business world has been an unparalleled experience.

In conclusion, my journey to Harvard has been more than an academic pursuit; it’s been a transformative expedition towards becoming the best version of myself. The commitment to continuous learning, coupled with the exceptional resources and opportunities Harvard provides, has undoubtedly propelled me towards greater heights in my entrepreneurial endeavors.

Connect with Danny on Social:

Danny Cortenraede is a global serial entrepreneur and investor. He is the founder of InStudio Ventures, based in Los Angeles, CA.

Recent Insights

My Journey to Harvard

Balancing Entrepreneurship and Continuous Learning

After successfully completing the Executive Program in Business, Entertainment, Media, and Sports a few months ago, I’ve now set my sights on the accelerated Executive MBA at Harvard Business School. Embarking on a journey towards higher education is often a pivotal decision, and for me, the decision to join Harvard Business School while simultaneously building my venture studio was a momentous one. As an entrepreneur, the pursuit of knowledge has always been a guiding force, and Harvard presented the perfect opportunity to take my learning to new heights.

I’ve long believed in the power of continuous learning. The idea that one should never stop seeking knowledge resonates deeply with me. While steering my venture studio, I found myself craving a more profound understanding of corporate strategy, M&A, and marketing strategy. It’s not just about the practical applications but understanding the theories, frameworks, and nuances that can shape a successful business.

The decision to return to school wasn’t solely driven by a desire for academic achievement; it was about personal growth and self-awareness. Recognizing the need to refine my leadership skills, I embraced the opportunity to work with a 1:1 coach. This introspective journey allowed me to assess my strengths, address weaknesses, and cultivate a leadership style that aligns with my entrepreneurial vision.

Investing in oneself is a philosophy I hold dear. If you aspire to play on the highest level, you must be willing to invest in your own development continually. Harvard, as one of the world’s top-ranked universities, offered the ideal platform for such an investment. The prospect of learning from some of the brightest minds across various industries was not only enticing but a crucial step in my personal and professional evolution.

One of the unique aspects of the Harvard experience is the depth of learning it provides. It goes beyond understanding concepts or reading materials; it’s about engaging with real-world cases, dissecting complex problems, and collaborating with diverse perspectives. The emphasis on case analysis has been particularly enlightening, offering a hands-on approach to learning that is both challenging and rewarding.

Collaborating with top talents from around the world has been a highlight of my time at Harvard. The exchange of ideas with professionals from Google, Coca Cola, Deloitte, Saudi Investment bankers, Apple, and many more has broadened my horizons. It’s not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about gaining insights that can only come from a diverse and global cohort.

As I navigate the intricate landscape of business and entrepreneurship, Harvard has become a beacon of inspiration and a catalyst for growth. The intersection of academic rigor, real-world application, and the chance to interact with the brightest minds in the business world has been an unparalleled experience.

In conclusion, my journey to Harvard has been more than an academic pursuit; it’s been a transformative expedition towards becoming the best version of myself. The commitment to continuous learning, coupled with the exceptional resources and opportunities Harvard provides, has undoubtedly propelled me towards greater heights in my entrepreneurial endeavors.

Connect with Danny on Social:

Danny Cortenraede is a global serial entrepreneur and investor. He is the founder of InStudio Ventures, based in Los Angeles, CA.

Recent Insights