Frannie Gurzenda
"I learned how to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. After navigating the eventful and challenging first year fall semester, I developed trust in myself that I would be able to effectively tackle future difficulties that came my way."
Daytime MBA
Prior Education:
Bowdoin College
Art History, 2016
Why I Chose Fuqua
I chose to attend Fuqua for several reasons. First, I was looking for a collaborative, collegial environment, and the “Team Fuqua” mentality fit the bill. Second, there are many amazing experiential learning opportunities, particularly through the Center for the Advancement of Social Entrepreneurship (CASE), and I knew I wanted to try my hand at managing client consulting projects for impact. Finally, Durham and the Triangle area were really appealing to me—with family in the area and many restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries to explore.
I am most passionate about the CASE community. Here, I found a like-minded cohort of mentors and friends, career enrichment and development, and academic coursework all aligned with my personal mission and goals.
Before Fuqua
Working at the Smithsonian in corporate relations, I managed a philanthropic program that involved developing sponsorships for companies in a variety of industries. I got to work with exhibitions and new projects across Smithsonian museums and research centers. I loved learning something new every day.
After Fuqua
Still up in the air! However, I hope to secure a brand management position in consumer product goods with the ultimate goal of making our food systems more sustainable.
5 Best Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors in Durham and Nearby
- Bike ride on the American Tobacco Trail
- Take a dip in the Eno Rock Quarry
- Enjoy the Duke Gardens
- Camp in the Grayson Highlands (See wild ponies!)
- Explore Asheville and all it has to offer (beer, cheese, mountains)
My Fuqua Activities
3 Must-take Classes at Fuqua
- Negotiation. Essential learning with Grainne Fitzsimons. Take this course before signing your first offer!
- Global Academic Travel Experience (GATE). I traveled to Denmark and Norway and learned about sustainability and business in the Nordic countries. Highlights included going into the underbelly of Norway's Sovereign Wealth Fund and visiting a sustainable fishery in the Arctic Circle.
- Center for the Advancement of Social Entrepreneurship - Initiative on Impact Investing (CASE i3). Amazing opportunity to work on a real-world consulting project with a top-tier impact investing firm. Learn not only about return on investment but also return on impact.