Hello MMS Class of 2013!

As you prepare to move to Durham and get started at Fuqua, I thought I’d share a few tips to make your transition into academic life a bit smoother. The summer term (beginning July 18) is in my opinion one of the most challenging. It starts with accounting, business communications, and quantitative analysis — at the same time, you’ll start the job search process and become more familiar with Fuqua. There are many more orientation events, so the days tend to be long. To help you get started on the right foot I recommend:

  1. Do the preterm assignments in advance. Trust me — trying to finish the accounting assignment the day before class starts is no fun. Finish it now, and get comfortable with the material. You’ll probably have to hand in some of it, and you’re expected to do the rest on your own. I suggest that you do it all. Once classes start you’ll be glad you did.
  2. Think about your career. If you’re interested in fields that have an early recruiting season, such as finance or consulting, begin your research before school starts. Begin thinking strategically about your career, and what you have to offer. Identify what you believe are your strengths, so that when you come to Fuqua you’ll be prepared to put your resume into “Fuqua format.” You may also find it helpful to create a list of firms you’re interested in, why you think they’d be a good fit for you, and why you’d be a good fit for them.
  3. Identify your goals. What do you want MMS to do for you? By identifying what you’d like to take away from Fuqua (beyond a job and the curriculum), you can take advantage of the many resources that exist. Additionally, if you’re unsure about which career path to pursue, writing down your goals might help you figure out what you want in a job.
  4. Find an extracurricular activity you’re interested in and dive in early! The academics will be demanding, and you may be tempted to postpone getting involved beyond the classroom — don’t! It’s a great way to destress and also give back to and interact with those around you. If the activity you’re interested in doesn’t exist at Fuqua, make it happen. Fuqua is extremely supportive of your interests.
  5. Brush up on your math skills. If you’re not a quantitatively oriented person, review some of that high school and college math, particularly basic statistics concepts. You’ll be glad you did once the term is in full swing.

Hope this helps!! Good luck in your transition to Fuqua.