Alum Michael Wijaranakula Partnered with Questrom Action Learning through Biopharma Strategy
August 31, 2026
At Boston University Questrom School of Business, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Through Questrom Experiential Learning (QXL) Action Learning courses, students partner with real organizations to solve business challenges, applying classroom knowledge to real-world situations while developing the critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills employers value most.
One recent project in Professor Carson’s Health Sector Consulting course allowed students to work with Questrom alumnus Michael Wijaranakula (MBA ’20), Director of Corporate Development & Strategy at Ardelyx Inc. By returning as a client, Michael not only challenged students with a real business problem but also continued the tradition of alumni giving back to the Questrom community.
For Michael, participating in Action Learning was an easy decision. “It is really important for me to give back, especially since there were many people throughout my career who gave me opportunities or advice that were life changing,” he said.
Drawing on his experience in biotechnology, corporate strategy, and business development, Michael asked students to analyze deal-making trends across the biopharmaceutical industry. In today’s rapidly changing healthcare landscape, companies are constantly evaluating partnerships, acquisitions, and licensing opportunities, leaving little time for teams to step back and assess broader industry trends.
“These days the biopharma industry is so dynamic, and there is so much information to process, that I or my colleagues don’t have the time to analyze and derive insights that could be meaningful,” Michael explained. Rather than working on a hypothetical case study, students tackled a genuine business challenge with real implications.
Throughout the semester, they researched industry data, analyzed market trends, and developed strategic recommendations that could help inform future partnership decisions. Like many consulting engagements, the project evolved as new information emerged, requiring the team to adapt its approach, refine its analysis, and respond to client feedback along the way.
Working closely with an engaged client made all the difference. Regular meetings with Michael gave students the opportunity to ask questions, test ideas, and receive constructive feedback throughout the project. His willingness to share his expertise and mentor the team created an environment where students felt empowered to think critically and develop solutions with confidence.
Michael was equally impressed by the students’ commitment to the work. “I was very impressed by the level of engagement, interest, and willingness for the students to learn and tackle the case head on,” he said. He also appreciated the team’s openness to feedback and the growth they demonstrated over the course of the semester. The collaboration ultimately created value for both the students and the client, providing fresh perspectives that could influence future business decisions.
“The team provided an objective analysis, insights, and recommendations into how our team should think about deal strategy. I can see our team implementing some of these recommendations as we continue to evaluate partnerships.”
For Michael, experiences like this demonstrate why alumni should continue to engage with Action Learning. “Absolutely. Questrom students are extremely sharp and, with the right guidance and mentoring, they can solve real-world problems for you.”
Projects like this capture the essence of QXL and Action Learning at Questrom. By connecting students with engaged alumni and real organizations, these experiences transform classroom concepts into practical business solutions. At the same time, they strengthen the Questrom community by creating opportunities for alumni to mentor future leaders and continue the cycle of learning, collaboration, and giving back.
