Elizabeth Powers, Principal, Organization and Strategic Leadership Practice, Booz & Company

After spending nearly 10 years as Executive Director for a number of non-profit modern dance companies in New York City, I was ready for a change. I had become very interested in organization effectiveness and business school seemed to be a very pragmatic way to pursue that professionally. I looked at many of the top business schools. I chose Wharton in large part because of the women (really – in true life, as my daughter likes to say) – the women I met during recruiting were hugely energetic and empowered. And then of course, there was the hockey…co-ed ice hockey! Late night practices and games (including 3 goals in my first D-level season) and beers at Bonners remain some of my most cherished memories and gave me my closest friendships from Wharton.

Wharton allowed me to make a radical career change – I’ve been at Booz & Company for 8 years now. In addition to the new business skills and knowledge, Wharton gave me new levels of confidence and awareness of new ways to have an impact in the world. Part of that experience was getting to meet Wharton women alumni through WWIB events as well as recruiting, and talking with them about their paths, of which no two are alike.