How many cases do MBA students read over their two years at Harvard Business School (HBS)? 500. Ranging in topics from finance to entertainment to sustainability, cases share the story of a business leader (the case protagonist) making a key decision in a difficult situation. In the classroom, students discuss and debate potential solutions with fellow classmates, bringing their personal, cultural, and professional backgrounds to bear. While all cases help broaden the perspectives of future leaders, students find some to be more meaningful than others. We asked members of the MBA Class of 2023 about a case they read that made an impact on them, how the lessons will help them become leaders who make a difference, and more.
Read more: My One Case: MBA Class of 2023 Looks Back

Martine Rothblatt began life as Martin. She underwent gender reassignment surgery at age 40 and stayed married to her wife. Founder of Sirius Radio, she later started United Therapeutics and invented a drug to save her daughter’s life. Rothblatt’s unique perspective enabled her to make even implausible dreams come true. Her incredible story shines a light on gender fluidity, the importance of staying true yourself, and never giving up. Based on the case study by Professor Debora Spar, “Martine Rothblatt and United Therapeutics: A Series of Implausible Dreams,” and the Cold Call podcast episode featuring an interview with Spar: “How Martine Rothblatt Started a Company to Save Her Daughter.”
Read more: Martine Rothblatt: Making Implausible Dreams Reality