Pivoting with Purpose: Rebecca’s Harvard Online Journey

Published January 24, 2025

Course mentioned in this post: Data Science Principles, Data Science for Business, Big Data for Social Good

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When life throws you a curveball, the ability to pivot with resilience and determination can make all the difference.

Rebecca Barnett, a business leader and expert in global supply chain management and lean manufacturing, faced a pivotal moment in her career when she was affected by a reduction in force at a major defense contractor. But instead of succumbing to discouragement, she embarked on a journey of reinvention, fueled by Harvard Online courses.

Her story is a testament to the power of lifelong learning, the value of perseverance, and the importance of community. 
 

A Career Rooted in Purpose

Rebecca’s professional journey is deeply intertwined with her personal values. Coming from a military family, she was inspired to transition from the commercial side of business to the defense and aerospace industry. “I wanted to pivot into doing what I saw as good and important work,” Rebecca shared. “I wanted to use my skills to help soldiers train and bring them home safely to their families.”

Her roles at influential companies gave her the opportunity to lead significant projects, including a startup team for submarine missile tubes and a high-volume team repairing training devices for soldiers. Rebecca faced a new challenge after a reduction in force left her seeking her next opportunity. With determination and focus, she approached the job market as a chance to embrace growth and explore new possibilities.
 

Finding Harvard Online at the Right Time

Rebecca’s journey with Harvard Online wasn’t just a moment of growth—it was the realization of a lifelong dream. Years earlier, Rebecca had aspired to attend Harvard Business School for her MBA. “At the time, Harvard was just the absolute dream for anyone in business,” she shared. However, financial and personal constraints as a single mother meant she had to prioritize work and supporting her family.

Despite this, her dream of attending Harvard never faded. Decades later, as she faced a career transition, Rebecca’s determination led her back to that goal—this time, through Harvard Online. 

“I started thinking, ‘What can I do to make myself a more competitive candidate? What can I do to sharpen my skills?’”

The answer came in the form of Harvard Online’s Data Science for Business course. Rebecca described it as a lifeline: “The Harvard Online courses came exactly at the right time because I was getting discouraged and not feeling effective in my job search.” 
 

A Journey of Delightful Learning

Rebecca didn’t stop at one course. Encouraged by her experience, she enrolled in Data Science Principles, where she dove into algorithms and machine learning. “For me, it was just like being a kid in a candy store,” she said, reflecting on the excitement of learning new concepts. 

“Everyday I would learn something new and I couldn’t wait for my husband to come home so I could say, ‘Guess what I learned today!’”

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To mark her achievement of completing two courses, her husband surprised her with a Harvard sweatshirt for Christmas—a gesture that underscored the pride and support her family felt for her academic journey. This winter Rebecca will earn her Certificate of Specialization when she completes her third course, Big Data for Social Good.

Rebecca found particular joy in understanding neural networks, a topic she never imagined she’d explore. “I can’t believe that at my age and at this stage in my career, I’m learning about neural networks,” she shared. “It’s fascinating to see how these systems can simulate human decision-making and transform processes across industries.”

She credits the course’s instructor, Professor Dustin Tingley, for making complex topics accessible.

“The way Professor Tingley presents the information and the case studies he uses make it something anybody can grasp.”

The courses weren’t just about acquiring new skills; they also provided a much-needed sense of structure and accomplishment. “Every week I had to complete assignments, and it gave me an intellectual challenge which I was craving,” she said. “It was a lifeline and helped restore my confidence.” 
 

Learning With A Global Network

One unexpected benefit of the courses was the connection Rebecca felt with her global cohort of peers. Far from the confines of a traditional classroom, she discovered the joy of learning with what she described as “the smartest people in the room,” only this room wasn’t bricks and mortar—it was a truly global community of highly motivated learners.

“Everyone was collaborative, supportive, and encouraging of each other,” she noted.

The opportunity to learn from professionals in diverse industries and countries enriched her experience. “It provides a  rich learning opportunity where you’re not just relying on the professor, but also learning from your peers.”

The collaborative environment also helped Rebecca overcome challenges. “In one module, I got stuck on a mathematical formula,” she recalled. 

“But I was able to read responses from my peers and reach out to them, which helped me get unstuck quickly.”

For Rebecca, this global network of learners was more than a group of classmates—it was an integral part of her educational journey, providing both intellectual stimulation and a sense of shared purpose. 
 

Bridging the Gap Between Expertise and Emerging Skills

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Rebecca’s newfound knowledge has opened doors she didn’t anticipate. Her background in global supply chain management combined with her growing expertise in data science positions her uniquely in the job market. “I’ve always been a functional expert, but these courses have helped me see how I can integrate data science into my work,” she explained. 

“There’s a need for professionals who can bridge the gap between functional expertise and emerging technologies like AI, and I’m excited to be part of that transformation.”

While she continues her job search, Rebecca is already finding ways to apply her skills in community initiatives, such as animal welfare projects. As an animal lover and enthusiast, she’s also using this time to enjoy the outdoors with her horses, balancing her professional growth with personal passions. This combination of purpose and passion keeps her energized and optimistic about the future.

Looking ahead, she’s hopeful about blending her functional expertise with emerging fields like AI and data science. “I think where the field is heading is a need for a skill set that has both,” she said. “Today, that’s pretty rare.” 
 

Advice for Others in Transition

Rebecca’s message to others navigating career transitions is one of hope and action:

“The job search process is isolating and discouraging but I urge anyone in this position to be encouraged. Don't give up if you have the energy, passion, and intellect to return to work. Take that first course to sharpen and refresh your skills, build your confidence, and see where your intellectual curiosity takes you. What will you do with your great gifts?”

Reflecting on her own journey, she shared, “When I started learning about algorithms and neural networks, I was surprised by how accessible and exciting it was. That intellectual curiosity transformed my outlook and made me realize there’s always room to grow and contribute, no matter where you are in your career.”

Aligning personal skills with future industry needs is critical. Rebecca encourages professionals to “skate towards the puck,” preparing themselves with education and training that aligns with where industries are headed. 

Looking Ahead with Optimism

Reflecting on her journey, Rebecca’s outlook is positive. 

“I don't know how my job search will unfold but I am satisfied that I've done everything I can to increase my competitiveness as a candidate with forward leaning skills. I am filled with optimism that a positive opportunity will come along to use my new skills.”

Rebecca’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to learn, adapt, and thrive. Whether through a career pivot, personal growth, or community service, she’s proving that reinvention is possible at any stage of life. As she continues to pursue her dreams, Rebecca’s resilience and dedication inspire us all to embrace the opportunities that come with change.  
 

Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore Harvard Online’s wide range of courses and find the one that inspires your journey.