Wademan Photo by Tony Deifell

After two semesters at HBS, Daisy Wademan (MBA ’02) found herself looking forward to the last day of class when faculty members traditionally share personal stories and dole out life advice. So inspiring did she find these gems that she decided to take on the task of writing them down. With the help of several HBS faculty members, Wademan compiled Remember Who You Are: Life Stories That Inspire the Heart and Mind, which was published by HBS Press in May.

What are some of the themes addressed in this book?

I think the main theme centers on success and happiness in life. Happiness is not based on skills or education or experience. It is based on personal attributes and approaches to life. Specifically, I have divided the book into four sections: gaining perspective, managing yourself, leading others, and building values.

Were there anecdotes that stood out for you personally?

David Bell’s talk on taking risks was very inspiring. By working on this book after graduating, I didn’t follow the typical MBA trajectory. His words helped me feel good about taking on this project.

What prompted this book?

The changes that were taking place in the world when I was at HBS — the recession, 9/11, the corporate accounting scandals — made me question what I wanted to do with my life. During this crisis of faith, I found the personal stories and advice that my professors delivered at the end of the term to be very inspirational. I wanted to share these insights with a wider audience.

How did you choose which remarks to include?

This collection is entirely subjective. I chose some of my professors whom I found particularly inspiring, while others were suggested by other students. In some cases, I approached professors I thought were particularly thoughtful and asked them to participate.

What was the process?

In most cases I interviewed the faculty member and then worked to distill his or her ideas into one salient point. Often they made fifteen fabulous points, so there was some work in figuring out how to focus each piece.

Does this book appeal to people outside HBS?

Yes. These essays will help anyone reframe how they view their work and their lives.

Do professors tell the same stories year after year?

Some do, but most keep them fresh. HBS faculty members have very rich and diverse experiences and backgrounds. These essays are really just the tip of the iceberg.

What’s next for you?

I’m starting a job search. Working on this book has been utterly different from my previous career in investment banking. It’s been an excellent experience. I’m ready to get back into general management. I do have some ideas on the back burner for future projects.

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