At Fuqua, we strive to create a community that reflects the world’s rich diversity of cultures, experiences, and perspectives. One of the most rewarding parts of my role is witnessing how our students come together to build a network that is truly global — one that supports them during their time here and for years to come. This spirit of connection and collaboration is at the core of what makes Fuqua special.

The Value of International Perspectives

Fuqua is committed to preparing students to thrive in a global business environment. By bringing together individuals from different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences, we create a space where students learn not just from faculty and coursework but also from each other. These interactions equip them to work effectively in diverse teams and lead with a global mindset.

A panel sitting at the front of a conference room with dozens of people in the audience
Prospective students attending a Fuqua Information Session I hosted in Lagos, Nigeria

Our Admissions team works strategically and intentionally to create a student body mirroring the interconnected business world. By understanding that everyone’s path to business school is different, we can better support their application journey by offering:

  • Admissions counselors trained to understand regional nuances and provide personalized guidance
  • An annual virtual International Student Symposium for prospective candidates showcasing Fuqua’s community, academic, career, and social resources
  • Connections to students and alumni who share real-life insights about their Fuqua experiences
  • Support for visas, financial aid, and other essential needs to help students transition smoothly to life at Fuqua
Dozens of MMS students in the center of an ice rink
MMS students enjoying some time at an ice skating rink

How Fuqua Prepares International Students for Success

At Fuqua, international students play a vital role in enriching our community and helping everyone develop a broader understanding of the world. We provide tailored resources to help students transition into our programs and set them up for success.

To help international students adjust to life in the U.S., we offer Business, Communication, and Culture, a course that builds skills in communication, networking, and presentation. Students receive personalized feedback to help them feel confident before classes officially begin.

Jessica Brown, associate director of admissions, standing and speaking to others seated at a restaurant table in Southeast Asia
Jessica Brown, associate director of admissions (second from the left), visiting Seoul, South Korea

Community and Culture

Joining the Fuqua community is a unique opportunity to meet people from all around the world who are not only striving to achieve professional goals but are also eager to share and engage with different cultures. From cultural celebrations to student-led culinary experiences, students are invited to share items from their culture with fellow classmates who are excited to learn.

For instance, Fuqua Friday is a recurring event inviting all students, faculty, staff and their families to celebrate the end of the week by spending time together with food, music, and more. Not only does Fuqua Friday provide a weekly outlet to connect and unwind, but it is also often hosted by clubs celebrating different holidays or cultures. Recent themes include Diwali, Halloween, Hispanic Heritage Month, Mid-Autumn Festival, Black History Month, Lunar New Year, and Global Week.

The MMS: Duke Kunshan University (MMS: DKU) program is unique in that the students spend half of their time at Fuqua’s campus in Durham, North Carolina, and complete the program at Duke’s campus in Kunshan, China. Establishing a sense of community is a priority for all students but is especially important for this cohort. The program staff partners with student leaders to create unforgettable experiences both in Durham and Kunshan. Students credit these events and the structure of the program with expanding their perspectives on school-life balance.

Lifelong Career Support

At Fuqua, we measure our success not just by the achievements of our students during their time here, but by the impact they have throughout their careers. It’s important to feel supported as the recruitment for the career search begins.

All Fuqua residential programs, including MMS, carry the science, technology engineering or math (STEM) designation, enabling international graduates to work in the U.S. for up to three years through optional practical training (OPT). Our Career Management Center (CMC) provides expert coaching and guidance to help students navigate the global job market, and dedicates resources to support international students whose career journey is unique. Importantly, our career resources are available for life, giving alumni continued access to support at any stage of their professional journey.

Global Alumni Connections

Our alumni network, which includes over 29,000 individuals in 100 countries, is an invaluable resource. With 14% of alumni living outside the U.S., international Duke and Fuqua chapters offer mentorship, connections, and opportunities for lifelong engagement. Regional advisory boards composed of alumni and business leaders further strengthen these connections by fostering engagement in key markets. Events like Fuqua Around the World bring alumni, students, and admitted applicants together in cities across the globe to celebrate and build community.

Fuqua’s mission is to prepare leaders who make a difference in the world, and we’re proud of the role our students and alumni play in creating positive change. Every student who joins our community brings something unique, and we are here to support them as they pursue their goals. It’s inspiring to see how the connections made at Fuqua evolve into lifelong friendships, collaborations, and professional networks. We look forward to continuing to build a community that truly reflects the best of a globally connected world.