Beginning the MS in Innovation & Management (MSIM) program at Tufts University’s Gordon Institute this fall has been a truly transformative step in my life. From the very beginning, I knew my graduate journey would go far beyond just attending classes; it would be a path of personal and professional growth, shaping me into a more confident, creative, and empathetic individual. The skills I’ve gained in product management, finance, marketing, and a leadership mindset are all essential parts of the toolkit I’m building for my journey to make a positive contribution in the world.
The Power of “Yes, and…”
One of the most impactful lessons came during orientation, when we explored two simple but powerful phrases: “Yes, but…” and “Yes, and…”. It might sound trivial at first, but this subtle shift in language completely changed how I approach ideas and opportunities coming into my life. “Yes, and…” allows creativity to flourish, keeping the momentum going, encouraging contributions, and building on ideas. While “Yes, but…” tends to halt the flow of ideas and can even stifle collaboration.
Our MSIM cohort is wonderfully diverse with a mix of academic backgrounds, nationalities, and professional experiences. The collaborative environment motivates me to become a better version of myself. I’ve found “Yes, and…” to be a deeply grounding phrase that guides me anytime I find myself stepping into unfamiliar territory.
A main part of the MSIM program is the Innovation Sprint, a hands-on group project where four to five students work together to identify a real-world problem through market research and customer insights, then design a viable, innovative solution and commercialize that product in the market. Our team initially focused on bike mechanics, exploring ways to improve repair efficiency and sustainability. However, we soon realized there was a gap between our idea and the actual needs of customers. As a result, we pivoted toward commercializing software that accelerates drug development, particularly in nanobody discovery.
At first, I felt uncertain—how could I contribute when I hadn’t studied biochemistry as an undergraduate and barely understood the role of nanobodies in drug discovery? Yet before giving in to those reservations, I paused, looked around the MSIM studio to clear my thoughts, and my eyes landed on the phrase “Yes, and…” displayed on the wall. In that instant, my inner voice echoed the same words—an invitation to explore, to stay open, and to keep learning. That moment pushed me to lean in rather than pull back. I gave myself the space to research, ask questions, and grow. “Yes, and…” may be a simple phrase, but it helped me trade hesitation for curiosity and cultivate adaptive learning.
Innovation Beyond the Classroom
Along with the “Yes, and...” spirit, Innovator's Mindset trips are what I have been enthusiastically looking forward to. These trips are designed to connect classroom concepts with real-world applications across diverse industries. Our first trip was to the Tufts Veterinary School, where we practiced simulations that revealed how technology supports compassionate animal care. At our trip to the New Entry Sustainable Farming Project, I felt grounded pulling fresh carrots from the soil, realizing that innovation can thrive even in the quiet rhythm of a farm. Each trip reminded me that innovation isn’t confined to startups or labs. It’s alive wherever people stay curious, experiment boldly, and collaborate with purpose. Innovation goes beyond technical skills, becomes a mindset, and leads the flow of thoughts in the direction of “Yes, and …” instead of “Yes, but …”
Marie and classmate Dylan pulled carrots at the New Entry Sustainable Farming Project Innovator's Mindset trip
It’s been three months, and I’m truly amazed at how much I’ve grown. The MSIM program is fast-paced, intellectually enriching, and built on deep collaboration. Beyond the classes, what has impacted me most are the connections I’ve built. They always inspire me: professors who challenge me to think differently, alumni who generously share their journeys, and classmates whose energy turns discussions into new ideas. I’m especially grateful for the thoughtful feedback I’ve received. All these learning moments that are shaping not just my career, but also the kind of optimistic, innovative individual I’m becoming.
Moving forward and shifting to an innovation mindset in this chapter of my life journey, I’m eager to keep learning beyond the classes as well as explore new opportunities and field trips that inspire my “Yes, and …” spirit.