Duke MMS Student Blog
Why Attending Admissions Events is Important
Attending admissions events is an important part of your graduate school search. Not only does it give you a chance to learn more about the school and program, but it could also potentially help you while writing admission essays.
Every application cycle, the admissions team at Fuqua offers multiple types of events such as fairs, forums, multi-school events, information sessions, custom events such as the diversity perspective series, and more. The general information sessions are program-specific events that offer insights and guidance on applying. Typically, in these events, you get a chance to hear from the admissions committee, alumni, and current students. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the events went virtual which is a great option for anyone to tune in from anywhere in the world.
Attending admissions events is an important part of your graduate school search. Not only does it give you a chance to learn more about the school and program, but it could also potentially help you while writing admission essays— especially in answering questions like “How do you plan to contribute to the community?” The knowledge you gain from these events will go beyond what you can find on the websites. You may be able to interact with current students who talk about their experiences with student life. This is especially important when you’re trying to understand what it feels like on the campus and what the people there are like.
I was convinced that Fuqua was the perfect place to kickstart my career after attending the workshop for minority applicants hosted by the Black and Latino MBA Organization. Connecting with the minority students and listening to their experiences at Fuqua gave me a sense of belonging within the community. This was important to me because I did not want to attend a school that didn’t care for my experience as a minority.
Lastly, these events present an opportunity to network and build connections. You will hear from and possibly interact with admissions staff, getting a more in-depth understanding of the application process. You’ll be getting information right from the best sources available! This is also a great way to ask questions not covered in the presentation and clear up any other issues you may be having.
I would really encourage everyone to attend at least one admissions event. Not only can it amplify your interest in the school and its programs, but it can also provide intangible assets such as much-needed clarity during the process of finding the right business school.