By Cyeda Serhat, MiM2026
Being a woman at LBS is truly rewarding and exciting. From the moment I joined, I met incredible people through the Women in Business Club and also through my connections at the Laidlaw Foundation. These communities have given me the chance to connect with inspiring, driven women who are passionate about making a difference. The friendships and professional relationships I have built here mean a lot to me, because they feel both genuine and lasting.
What makes this experience even more special is the strong support system among women at LBS. Women here truly support each other. They share advice, open doors, and celebrate each other’s successes without hesitation. It feels normal to ask for help, to share opportunities, and to be honest about challenges. There are many events throughout the year focused on empowering women and helping us grow in our careers. These events create safe spaces where we can share our stories, learn from leaders, and build confidence. Over time, that sense of community becomes something you can really rely on, not just during busy recruiting periods, but throughout the whole year.
Being a Laidlaw Scholar has also given me so many opportunities to meet new people and learn new things, while also allowing me to give back to the community. There is a real sense of belonging within the Laidlaw network, and the community is designed in a way that encourages both personal growth and contribution. For example, we have networking breakfasts and lunches where we meet other scholars, share what we are working on, and learn from each other’s experiences. We also gather a couple of times a year to exchange knowledge, reflect on what we have learned, and support each other’s journeys. These moments feel really meaningful because they remind me that development is not only about career progress, but also about becoming a better person and helping others do the same. I feel really glad to be part of this fulfilling environment.
One event I am especially excited about is the EQUALL Conference, which takes place every year to celebrate women in business and create opportunities to network with inspiring leaders. I am looking forward to meeting amazing women, hearing their stories, and learning from how they navigated challenges and built impact. Experiences like this make LBS feel bigger than just academics. It becomes a place where you can grow through people, conversations, and shared ambition.
Overall, the Women in Business Club and the Laidlaw community have shaped my experience at LBS in a very positive way. They have helped me build friendships, expand my perspective, and feel supported as I aim high. I feel truly grateful to be surrounded by women who motivate each other, challenge each other in a healthy way, and genuinely want to see each other succeed.