Choosing a Masters of Management program (MMS) can be overwhelming. Even if you’ve decided on Duke, it’s still hard determine which of the school’s 2 different MMS programs to apply to.

Some of my MMS: Duke Kunshan University (MMS: DKU) classmates knew our program was right for them from the beginning. Some were on the fence and considering MMS: Foundations of Business (MMS: FOB). After all, both are wonderful 10-month MMS programs, have the same pool of Fuqua professors, and confer the same Duke degree. It really comes down to the very unique China immersion experience that MMS: DKU provides.

If you are deciding between the different Duke MMS programs, it is important to be clear on what you want to get out of it. Here is some insight on my MMS: DKU experience and 4 things to consider when making the choice:

International Experience

The MMS: DKU program takes place in Durham, North Carolina, and then in Kunshan, China. To me, learning on both campuses feels like getting the best of both worlds. I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to learn in a different environment and to challenge myself in these settings. Learning filters through the walls of the classrooms and exposes you to different cultures, languages, and business practices. Is the international study experience something you want to have? Why do you want a global education?

Adaptability and Flexibility

Studying on both campuses will expose you to a process of change. Staying adaptable to the norms and practices in each country is a valued process. Do you invite change? Are you able to adjust to new settings in a timely manner? Starting from day one, you’ll be working in full throttle. The MMS: DKU coursework is more fast-paced than MMS: FOB, and both are more intense that most undergrad experiences. The campus or student life at Duke may be completely different from what you have envisioned. You will need to be able to handle new environments quickly and be able to solve problems in a timely manner.

Diverse Classmates

There isn’t a ’typical‘ student in our program. I came with an environment and business degree from the University of Waterloo in Canada, and my classmates come from a variety of work experiences and academic backgrounds. Our class president, Pranav Sridhar, is an engineer from India. Scott Hung majored in history and biology during college in California. We also have Dagny Jonsdottir from Iceland, who has a Masters in International Law.

Learning with people different from you makes for such a value-added experience. Class discussions are filled with different perspectives and personal stories. To me, this makes business school that much more enriching. When thinking about your application, it’s worthwhile to reflect on your unique work experience, volunteer commitments, or interests to see how you can contribute to the Fuqua community.

Bonus! Mandarin Coaching

Even though classes are conducted in English, there are plenty of opportunities to learn Mandarin. The program staff even organized a Chinese coaching program for students of all levels (beginner to fluent) to learn and strengthen their Mandarin speaking and writing skills.

The MMS: DKU program was a clear choice for me when applying. I wanted to be a part of the new campus in Kunshan, as well as learn in the main campus in Durham. There are many things to consider when deciding between the different programs. Just remember, at the end of the day, this degree is most optimized for you if it aligns with your goals!