One MBA Candidate’s “Must-Read” List for B-School Grad Students! 

While you may not have much free time at the moment, a compelling, “off the syllabus” read has the power to reshape your perspective in the classroom or at work.

(Bonus: it can also liven up your commute!)

Whether written by a contemporary business leader, subject matter expert, entrepreneur or scientist, Nicole Alie (Schulich MBA 2017) is a huge proponent of stealing a few minutes each day to dive into a good book  –  and immerse yourself in some outside-of-the-box thinking!

Take a look at her recommendations below – or add your own in the Comments!

Five Must-Reads for Every Business Grad Student

by Nicole Alie, MBA (2017)

Black Box Thinking: The Surprising Truth About Success
by Matthew Syed

An essential read on what motivates some people to confront their failures and why others ignore their mistakes. This book is both entertaining and informative, while confronting a subject we all should think about more regularly.

Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World
by Adam Grant

Grant, American author and Wharton School professor, is one of our most compelling, entertaining, and important modern thinkers. In this book he tackles the subject of creativity, innovation, and risk-taking. Spurred by his decision to reject an early opportunity to invest in Warby Parker, he asks the question how do we foster innovation in all aspects of life? Hugely entertaining, this is a must read.

The Brain that Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science
by Norman Doidge

An accessible and entertaining read full of personal anecdotes and cases, this book explores the remarkable resilience of the human brain. You will be flat-out amazed by some of these stories.

How to Have a Good Day: Harness the Power of Behavioral Science to Transform Your Working Life
by Caroline Webb

Webb, a former partner at McKinsey, explores recent findings in behavioural science, economics, and neuroscience to transform your approach/attitude to your work life. Very well-written, using a mix of personal stories and scientific research, this book will make you re-evaluate the attitude you bring into the office with you on any given day.

Zero to One
by Peter Thiel

Thiel is one of the biggest, most successful voices in startups. His book is an interesting, if controversial discussion of ideas, innovation, and what makes certain business models unique. A great read for anyone interested in entrepreneurship and crazy ideas.

Tell us: Which books have shaped or shifted your thinking?