Now that you have received the highly anticipated call, you must be asking yourself what you should do next. Here are 10 steps to help you navigate the upcoming months after you’re admitted to the Daytime MBA program.

1. Celebrate!

Applying for an MBA is a long journey, and being successful in the end is definitely the best part. So, of course, you deserve to celebrate this special moment with your loved ones! It would not have been possible to get into business school by yourself, so also take the opportunity to thank everyone who supported you during this time.

2. Plan to Attend Blue Devil Weekend

Attending Blue Devil Weekend (BDW) is a must-have experience, and was my favorite one as an admitted student. If you are not convinced why should you come, read these BDW blogs that explain more about the event and its value. Start planning when are you coming—February or April or both!

3. Tell Your Boss

If your boss was one of your recommenders, he or she is waiting for this big news. If not, you must find out what is the best way to reveal it. Give as much time as possible so your company can hire and train your replacement. Your boss will appreciate it.

4. Paperwork

You have to provide some documents to Fuqua, including previous school transcripts and immunization records. These details and other vital information are listed on the Incoming Student Website that you can access once admitted, so refer to that site often. Also, if you need a student loan, it is a good idea to start the process as soon as possible. Finally, if you are an international student, you have to apply for a visa. It might seem like a lot, but it is not. Fuqua will send you a letter explaining next steps, so just keep track of everything you have to do and don’t put it off.

Here’s an extra tip for international students: it is important to set everything up in your home country before you move. Remember to put your bills on autopay, or ask someone to help you with them while you are abroad. Consider also delegating power of attorney in case you need any help back in your country.

5. Find a Place to Live

There are great options for living around Durham, so it is time to start thinking about what your priorities are. Are you coming with your family or by yourself? Do you prefer living closer to Fuqua or downtown? Are you buying a car? Have that in mind while you check here some of the top options for Daytime MBA students.

Start considering whether you prefer to buy new furniture or a package of several used pieces from a graduating student. If you want to save some money or if you will not have enough time to shop once you move, I recommend you join our Fuqua Facebook group for buying, selling, and leasing. Keep an eye on the options available—the best ones are sold very quickly.

6. Start Packing

It is time to think about what you will bring with you to Durham. If you are flying, you will probably face some constraints, so be smart as you pack. Keep in mind that you can buy bedroom and bath linens for a great price here, so do not waste space on those items. Take this opportunity to sell or donate clothes you will not wear for the next two years.

7. Work on Your Summer Assignments

The more you can do before classes start, the more you will be able to focus on other opportunities when you arrive. I strongly recommend you to finish the below assignments before you move.

  • MBA Math is an online quantitative course that will help you review some math you probably have not seen since high school, and will also teach you some basic concepts we will explore later in the curriculum. There are some mandatory modules, but doing all of them will give you a stronger base for the start of Fall Term 1.
  • Business Computer Applications is an online Excel course. You are supposed to complete it by the end of Fall 1, but finishing it before orientation starts in August will give you a lot more free time to get to know your classmates and Durham.
  • Career Management Center assignments range from readings to working on your resume, and there are some that you must complete before August. But again, anticipate a whirlwind of activity once orientation begins and do yourself a favor by completing them earlier.

8. Read About Exemptions

If you have a strong academic or professional background in some of the core course subjects (including marketing, finance, accounting, among others) you can ask for an exemption. Having this extra free time will allow you to join more advanced classes ahead of time, and that might give you an advantage when it comes to recruiting for certain industries.

9. Move to Durham

I strongly recommend you to move at least two weeks before orientation (or International Student Bootcamp if you’re required to attend) so you can settle down before your first day at Fuqua. Make sure you have enough time to unpack everything and get used to your surroundings.

International students, as soon as you get here, buy a local SIM card for your phone and open a bank account if you will need one. Don’t forget to register at Duke Visa Services and go to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to get a local identification card. Most places do not accept IDs from other countries, and you probably do not want to have your passport with you all the time. Also, if you are planning to buy a car, you will need a driver license issued in the U.S. If you do not have one, you will have to take a driver test at a DMV office.

10. Enjoy Durham!

Durham is such an amazing city, so explore it as much as possible when you first arrive. Our blog has great posts about what to do once you are here including exploring the local beer and dining scenes.