By Sheila Davis
In a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence, the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University still places a significant emphasis on a human-centered approach to business education. 
“Let’s divide ourselves into two groups to discuss challenges we’ve faced — including times we had failed and how we responded,” Rubab O’Connor (pictured left) told her class. The students stood from their seats, split into groups, and gathered at separate sides of the classroom.
Her theme for the “Business Leadership Endeavor,” (BLE) sophomore class was grit, emotional intelligence, and behavioral skills.
O’Connor, distinguished professor of management at Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business, has created a three-year sequence that spans undergraduates’ first year, sophomore, and junior years. BLE focuses on developing students as whole persons and future leaders with a special focus on the behavioral skills that lay the foundation for lifelong personal and professional growth.
Two Tepper School alumni returned for this class to engage with students. Troy Witt, who works in marketing, and Elizabeth Jankowski, who works as an auditor, joined one of the student groups in O’Connor’s class.
Troy Witt speaks with students
Elizabeth Jankowski discusses challenges with students
Students practiced their self-introduction with Witt and Jankowski and discussed their academic and professional interests. Interacting with these alumni not only provided real-world insights for students but also helped them build confidence through public speaking in a professional setting.
“Business Leadership Endeavor is more than just a class,” O’Connor said. “It’s a journey that equips students with the emotional and interpersonal skills necessary to excel in their various walks of life. My goal is to inspire well-rounded individuals who can lead with empathy and understanding.”
Katie Sorrell, a former BLE teaching assistant, Tepper School graduate, and current financial analyst, found the course invaluable. “I didn’t realize I needed to work specifically on behavioral skills until I took this class,” she said. “The habits we developed and the books we read were incredibly helpful.”
The BLE course is divided into three segments, with each segment building upon the last, emphasizing the importance of strong habits, meaningful networks, and ongoing skill development. The course encourages students to connect personal and professional goals with their leadership development journey.
The first segment for freshmen lays the groundwork for leadership development through personal, professional, and community growth. Students focus on cultivating effective habits, enhancing development skills, and building meaningful networks.
Sophomores take the second segment in the sequence, which builds on the foundation of the first course and reinforces strong habits, networking, and skill development through passion and perseverance. Students begin aligning their growth with personal and professional goals, preparing for future challenges and opportunities.
The final segment for in the BLE series, taken by juniors, focuses on applying personal and professional skills in real-world contexts. Emphasizing broad growth and lifelong learning, students see the benefits of their assembled skills, both for themselves and their communities.
The course has been offered now for five years, and former students reflect positively on the class’s impact.
Annie Kim, another former BLE teaching assistant, Tepper School graduate, and current banking analyst, emphasized the value of the BLE classes. “I was initially skeptical about what the class could offer. But over time, I realized how crucial interpersonal skills are in the business world,” Kim said. “Rubab’s emphasis on networking and personal growth helped me become more confident and effective in professional settings.”
Before joining Tepper School, O’Connor held numerous management roles, including academic advising and career consulting for both undergraduates and MBAs, both in the U.S. and internationally. Her diverse experience spans investment banking in credit marketing and serving as a research assistant for the United Nations Development Program in New York.
The BLE program continues to prepare students for the complexities of the business world. Through continuous development and a focus on emotional intelligence, O’Connor is shaping the next generation of leaders who are capable, confident, and ready to lead.
Tepper School of Business
Carnegie Mellon University
5000 Forbes Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15213