“Historically, when fewer than 10 percent of Harvard grads go into the six categories of jobs that “depend to a large extent on the stock market” (investment banking, investment management, sales and trading, venture capital, private equity, or leveraged buyouts), it’s a signal that stocks are a long-term buy. When 30 percent or more of HBS alums throng into the industry, it’s a sell signal.

The masters of the case study aren’t bold risk-takers. Despite their reputation as future business leaders, they are perpetually just a bit behind the curve. They take high-paying jobs in consulting, Fortune 500 companies, and on Wall Street rather than striking out on their own.