Getting to know my new teammates while exploring campus.

“Hi, I’m Matt.”

“Hi, I’m Joe.”

“Hi Joe, I’m an Entrepreneur.”

“Oh, I’m a neurosurgeon. I also hold a master’s in accounting and have three bachelor’s degrees, four Pulitzers, seven Nobel Prizes (all in different categories) and own a small country in the Pacific.”

Ok, so, it wasn’t that bad, but Duke definitely pulls some brass. Doctors, engineers, product managers, finance primes and even some C-levels — all in the same room as me. Had this not been school, I would have been pitching some land deals or trying to raise money for another venture. But these people were not my bosses or my subordinates, they were my peers, my classmates, my soon to be brothers-in-arms, and each and every one of them was just as worried about class as I was! What a relief.

Visiting the iconic Duke Chapel during orientation week.

Clicking with my Classmates

The thing is, being in an executive MBA program at Duke really isn’t what I thought it would be. I expected a fight-to-the-death general population mentality where we’d duel with ancient pistols or epees or have it out in an intellectual cage-match. Much to my relief, I was very wrong. Everyone in class was attentive and considerate, but also clearly gifted and determined. They would prove to have depth, unlike most of the people I come across in day-to-day life, and they really were not out to leave me in their wake, or my ideas and goals in a pile of ashes.

I was assigned my Term 1 & 2 teammates and given time to get to know them. A doctor, a product manager, a sales engineer and an accountant; yet none of them scary at all. We had a few drinks together and talked about family, where we were from, and what we were hoping to get out of the program. Over the next few days we would learn one another’s strengths and weaknesses, goals and fears. We took Myers-Briggs and Thomas-Kilman surveys to learn about what it was that made us each tick and how we could effectively work those characteristics to benefit the team. We’d even help one another through a rigorous but rewarding day of self-awareness and team-building.

I have to say, to my surprise, even the very first week of my Duke MBA has been enlightening. I expected to come into an intellectual combat-zone rife with traps and pits, but instead I met 94 phenomenal people, 5 of which I built bonds with that I am certain will not just last for the next 19 months, but perhaps for life. As a marketer, a communicator, a feeler, a rebellious leader and an entrepreneur, I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.

“Overwhelmed” doesn’t come close to explaining the state I was in during the first few weeks of the Weekend Executive MBA program. The combined demands from work, family, and school left me with very little time for anything else, including sleep. Supposedly, I lied to myself that I could actually master it all. Sure enough, I started dropping some balls — forgetting to respond to some important work e-mails, forgetting to have breakfast, and one day I even microwaved pineapples by mistake!!

Now in Term 4, I am starting to understand the concept of work-life balance. For me, finding work-life balance meant transforming not only the way I did things, but also the expectations of those around me. Work-life balance is not actually about mastering everything. It’s about prioritizing. So, what did I do?

• I started outsourcing my honey-do list — no more mowing lawns, no more laundry. My wife understood and supported me, and she has become more comfortable with taking over more of the household duties.
• I taught our toddler the words “school” and “do not disturb.”
• At work, my manager and team have been very supportive. I keep them aware of my schedule and limitations, and they have taken the lead on some tasks that I would have been responsible for otherwise. They stepped in and provide all the needed help.
• I learned to block out time on my calendar for specific tasks that I must complete, and I have become better at planning things in advance.
• When I have school assignments, they take priority and get done as soon as possible, so that I have one less deadline to focus on. I learned that the longer I wait to complete a task, the more strenuous it seems to become … so, no procrastination for me!

Becoming more organized takes focus and dedication. Sometimes, it’s easier said than done. I have managed to develop a method (described above) that works for me, and has helped me balance family, work, and school responsibilities, with very minimal conflicts. In addition, I’ve found that the MBA experience becomes less about making the highest grades, and is more about networking, advancing your career, personal progression, and developing your passion. Taking some of the pressure off of myself to master every assignment was helpful in feeling more balanced. Although, this is a very busy time in my life, going through the Weekend Executive program is an experience worth living, and it gets better (and easier) with time.

As it’s now Memorial Day Weekend, almost exactly a year after I began this program, I thought I would take a look back at all the fun places that my textbooks have accompanied me:

• July 2012 – Virginia Beach, VA: I was accompanied by a stack of articles for Global Markets and Institutions class … these may or may not have come into contact with alcoholic beverages on the beach. Still readable though!
• September 2012 – Wrightsville Beach, NC: With my financial accounting textbook. I was on team calls about work-in-process inventory accounting in between family outings at the beach.
• November 2012 — Leesburg, VA: I was with my statistics course pack, studying in the kitchen while my mom made Thanksgiving dinner. I’m a great helper. I’m sure she really appreciated me just sitting there.
• January 2013 – Road trip to Toronto, Ontario: My backseat was full of Term 3 textbooks. My best friend decided to have her first child during the coldest month in Canada. So up I went to visit during a major snowstorm. I managed to read managerial accounting and marketing cases while holding her son Hudson, so she could nap. I’m still waiting on my friend-of-the-year award.
• February 2013 – Wintergreen, VA: The Term 3 marketing case came snowboarding with my boyfriend and me. It also came with us to the doctor the next day as we got an X-ray of Jon’s broken arm.
• May 2013 – Toronto, Ontario (take 2): Various electronic course articles on my iPad flew up with me for Memorial Day weekend. I’m spending another couple of days with my best friend and her son Hudson. Actually, I think I’ll inquire about my friend-of-the-year award while I’m up here …

And finally … a trip where my textbooks got left at home:

• March 2013 – San Juan, Puerto Rico: After I managed to take all of the Term 3 finals in the first four days of the exam block, I got a textbook free vacation … until I arrived home to find a box of Term 4 readings and books waiting for me on my porch.

So the plan is that there is no plan. You’ll have to take it one day at a time and make sure you reserve space in your carry on for your books!

Fuqua’s ability to attract guest speakers like John Allison, the former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of BB&T, is a wonderful way to introduce new career choices, and at the same time, give us the opportunity to reflect on what we can become in the long run. Fuqua’s curriculum alignment between courses like Leadership, Ethics and Organizations and speakers like Mr. Allison, provide us with a chance to hear and experience more real-world success stories and see beyond perceived external limits. Seeing the direct connection between academia and successful practitioners provides motivation for students, and greatly enhances our learning.

I believe the guest speakers motivate students in the right direction by validating our thoughts, and fostering high but realistic expectations. Motivation theory defines 3 indices: choice, effort and persistence. Students choose opportunities; put an effort on activities based on what they value and work towards being successful, by being persistent. Developing and improving on analytical thinking is critical for successful leaders. Listening to these guest lecturers can help us as students to focus more on actionable learning rather than pure book based knowledge. Knowledge without action does not help in achieving one’s dreams.

Bringing in high-caliber guest speakers requires immense preparation on the part of our program administrators. As students, we must also be prepared to ask smart questions. I think there’s a correlation between administrative preparedness, students’ readiness and guest speakers’ sharing their experience, that enriches the program, and creates a path for the next generation of successful leaders.

I see a difference in me. I dream of emulating great leaders like Scott Brown, the Global VP of Distribution for Cisco. He’s also a Fuqua adjunct professor for our marketing concentration, and he spoke in our marketing class about supply chain and distribution channels and how critical it is to tie suppliers, organizations and their customers in one thread and cadence. I take this learning every day to my work and my personal life by thinking, analyzing, and making better decisions for future growth.

Shortly after my arrival in Durham, I stumbled upon what was to become a Thursday night tradition with Max (a fellow classmate) — running into each other at Chipotle, each of us grabbing dinner to take with us back to the R. David Thomas Center (RDTC), which is where we live and study for the residencies. Then came the obstacle course of carrying my bookbag, suitcase, school laptop bag, work laptop bag and my treasured Chipotle from my car all the way through the lobby to my room. You might be wondering why I’m bringing this up … just wait until you have to do it for the first time. It’s a hike!

The night before the first class session (the first few days of the first residency were team building and introductions), I caught up on some work emails and got ready for my first official day of the program. The next day, the alarm went off at 6 am. The breakfast at the RDTC was a great start to the day (fresh fruit, bacon and eggs!), and then I was off to class. Class started promptly at 8 am, and I was excited to see what the day had in store for us. Some of you reading this blog may have sat in on a partial class during an open house visit, so you know that the day is full of discussions and interaction with the professor and other students. There are also lots of breaks between classes, with trips up to the snack room. It was a great way to try to learn more about each of the 80+ people I had just met.

Classes adjourned at 5 pm, and we then switched to the auditorium for the first of several guest speakers. I always appreciate the time that the guest speakers devote to coming to speak to us, and even though it’s at the end of a long day of classes, I get a second burst of energy and really enjoy their conversations with us. Then once the guest speaker presentation was over, it was back to the RDTC for dinner and more socializing with my classmates. For the first residency, the night went on quite a while with everyone hanging out on the patio and enjoying a beer or glass of wine. Some people stayed out late, others were more sensible knowing that we had to repeat this all again the next day.

Later the next afternoon, I reversed the hike from my room to my car, and started on my trip back to Richmond, Virginia. I no longer felt apprehensive of what was to come. I had survived my first residency. And I just needed to find a Starbuck’s for the ride home.

6:30 AM — My alarm goes off. I’m tempted to hit snooze, but know that I can’t because I have a personal trainer coming. Get out of bed and get dressed.

7:00 AM — The doorbell rings. It’s my personal trainer. We work out for 45 minutes. I’m sweating, and a mess.

7:45 AM — Hit the shower and get ready for work.

8:30 AM — Read email.

9:00 AM — Out the door and to the office for a day of meetings, etc.

5:45 PM — Leave work and head to Chick-Fil-A to meet my family for dinner.

6:30 PM — Plan next week’s Girl Scout meeting.

7:15 PM — Run an errand for the kids.

8:00 PM — Head home and start studying and doing class assignments.

11:30 PM — Head to bed, falling asleep instantly.

While working on a project at a large distributor’s Global Headquarters in fall 2011, a Vice President of Logistics and Supply Chain approached my desk to discuss an upcoming presentation themed “Business Gets Social.” He asked me to help develop strategic recommendations on how digital media impacts supply chain management. I was not surprised that the VP approached me to assist with the presentation. Yet, I was surprised at how much I learned from helping to create this presentation. The project showed me that I have a passion for searching for solutions to a wide variety of business problems. Yet, it also became clear that I needed to strengthen my finance, marketing, and accounting skills to continue my career progression. While I added value to the project based on my supply chain background, I could not create a strong impact with strategic recommendations for other areas of business.

This experience led to some serious introspection, and I concluded that entering an MBA program was the solution. I started a journey to search for a program that would suit me best and at the same time, allow me to reach out to the world to create an impact.

MBA is the Solution: Winter 2011-2012

My work at this distribution company made me realize that I wanted to transition out of supply chain management and take a more global strategic management role. I aligned my short and long term goals. To achieve these goals, I started learning about Duke’s MBA program. I attended 3 open houses at 3 top tier MBA schools and one of them was Duke. Initially, it was hard for me to justify the commute between New York City and Fuqua since there are competitive choices in the city. But Sr. Associate Dean and Professor Jennifer Francis’ talk on macro-economics and globalization during Fuqua’s open house made me realize that my goals exactly align with the offerings from Fuqua.

Why Fuqua: Spring 2012

Becoming a student in Duke’s MBA program was critical to obtaining my professional aspirations. Duke’s unique opportunities to learn about global markets, and its optional strategy and marketing concentrations would allow for my continued professional development. To achieve my future career goals, I need to effectively understand and analyze globalization challenges in supply chain management. More companies are taking an international approach to find the best vendors for their supply chain and also targeting new customers in different markets like Russia, China, India and Brazil. Fuqua’s global reach and diverse alumni can directly help me build a strong network in the supply chain strategy eco system, and in turn allow me to create an impact in countries with developing economies.

Now at Fuqua: Spring 2013

While growing professionally, Fuqua is also helping me in my personal development. I am excited to share my journey with a diverse group of experienced students that I am getting to know both inside and outside of the classroom. Meeting new people has always been the foundation of my personal growth. For example, I look forward to Duke’s Global Academic Travel Experience (GATE) which will allow me to work with team leaders in China. This trip will examine how local life is affected by global economic growth.

At Fuqua, I’m also learning more about how I may help my native country. In India, I personally experienced the opportunities and challenges of living in a developing country while rapid economic development occurred. Though India is one of the BRICS nations, with a fast GDP growth rate, there is a large percentage of the population who still do not have access to basic services due to lack of proper infrastructure and corruption. I want to continue with my social work at Apne-Aap (self-help), a grassroots organization in India working to end sex trafficking by increasing choices for at-risk girls and women. Fuqua’s ability to attract speakers to talk on social entrepreneurship and experienced career coaches are providing me with the exposure I need to create a robust monitoring and evaluation system for organizations like Apne-Aap. This is indeed an invaluable experience. So far, Fuqua is supporting my dream to add value to this world and make it a better place to live.

It’s crazy to think that at this time last year, I was preparing to take the GMAT again. Yes, it took me twice to get my scores where I wanted them to be. I was an art history major in college, more concerned with the musings of Willem De Kooning than calculus or economics. Over the years, I pieced together a rudimentary understanding of business and cultivated a wide portfolio of skills. But something was missing. I needed school-taught quantitative skills, a new lexicon and a bigger compass with which to navigate the paths of my future. Duke was the answer for me. I knew that if I was going to spend the time and money to go back to school, I wanted the best North Carolina had to offer: the best faculty, the best curriculum, the best cohort. One of the most important things for me was that fact that the Weekend Executive program is only 1.5 years.

To be honest, it was easy to choose Duke. They worked with me. I loved that I could reach out to an individual, the most incredible admissions counselor — Andy Medlin. None of the other programs I considered had an Andy. He guided me through the process, was available when I needed him, put me in contact with alumni and professors, etc.

One of my favorite college professors once said, “Do something that changes everything.” For me, Duke is just that. It’s forced me to push myself beyond my comfort zone, encouraged me to think differently, and exposed me to ideas and concepts I’d not considered before. Crazy as it may sound, as I stand here, almost halfway through the program, I can’t wait for the next terms. New challenges and opportunities await.

The melanoma started as a mole on my neck that looked different from the other freckles, and a biopsy showed it to be cancerous. A simple surgery was all that was needed to take care of it. As I faced treatment, someone asked me if surgery would somehow delay my graduation. I looked at them a bit funny. We were very near the end of the sixth term, otherwise known as Super Term. I only had a few more assignments to do to conquer the Duke MBA. I could count the number of assignments on one hand. Honestly, it is the confidence that I’ve gained while in the program that helped me face this tough situation. I caught it super early, and I know that if I can deal with 4 kids, a full-time job, an aging father, two Girl Scout troops, and an MBA program, I can also handle one more thing. What are a few doctors’ appointments, in the grand scheme of things?

I’ve learned a lot about juggling, dealing with stress — tremendous stress — and getting on with life. The Weekend Executive program has strengthened my resolve in facing tough situations — and for that I’m grateful.

Oh, and one more thing, a public service announcement — wear sunscreen. Become a successful Fuqua scholar, but please don’t follow me down this particular path, okay?

The event was full since it included students from other Fuqua programs.

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend an event called “Tailgating with the Dean.” My experience was quite different from what most would consider tailgating — hanging out with friends huddled around a keg, the smell of barbeque while you grill, and the excitement that builds up to game time. I ended up tailgating with Fuqua Dean Bill Boulding! Not too many can say that when they talk about academic experiences! The experience was additionally enriched since my spouse was there by my side.

Dean Bill Boulding with several Daytime MBA students.

Typically, the tailgates I have been to are outside right before a home game and everyone’s anticipation builds along with the excitement. This was an indoor tailgate that I have to say, I don’t mind at all; especially, on a cold winter day as the temperature hovered around 40 degrees with a wind chill factor that felt like 10 degrees. I grew up in the North during my younger days, but I have adjusted quite nicely to the milder winters here in the South. =)

Cheerleaders warming up for the game.

As my wife and I entered the room, we could not avoid taking a pause and noticing the excitement within the room. Students, families, and friends huddled around tables buzzing, laughing, and chatting as if they all knew each other for quite some time. The room was surrounded by plaques of basketball teams — current and past — that captured the emphasis they put on team work, accomplishment, and dedication. And I don’t want to forget the most important element of tailgating — food and drinks! This event was catered with delicious barbecue and a full keg, which I definitely helped to empty!

As we sat down at a random table, we introduced ourselves and began to get to know those that we never met before. To my surprise, we naturally got to know those around us as there was also a mix of students from the Daytime and MMS programs. There were many interesting experiences and stories we got to share! Overall, the tailgate was a fun experience from socializing with other students, devouring the catered barbeque, and enjoying the drinks. But the thing I did not expect was meeting Dean Boulding and his wife. They made the effort to meet and greet each and every one of us as they walked from table to table. Not only that, but I actually was able to share some ideas with him regarding the Weekend Executive program. He not only listened, but offered great suggestions to implement. We did not share any drinks, but I sure did appreciate the unexpected opportunity to share some ideas! Overall, this was not your typical tailgate experience, but it had all the elements to make it an enjoyable experience.

Almost forgot … what is a tailgate without the game! We attended the Duke women’s basketball game, and I’m happy to report that Duke convincingly beat Miami, 82 – 43!

The men get their rematch against Miami on March 2, and I will be there! Go Duke!