Mikhala Nelson
"My favorite thing about Fuqua is the international diversity. My classmates come from all corners of the globe, and it’s been such a joy getting to learn about them and their unique cultures. I've made meaningful connections by celebrating traditions like Diwali and Día de los Muertos with my peers. There’s something so special about being welcomed into these traditions that hold deep significance for them, and it’s given me a deeper appreciation for the richness of their cultures. The Fuqua community is grounded in a shared set of values that transcend our different backgrounds, making these connections feel all the more natural and rewarding."
Daytime MBA
Prior Education:
University of Georgia
Marketing, 2017
Why I Chose Fuqua
I chose Fuqua for the vibrant student experience, strong Duke community and brand, and ideal location. Fuqua is a fun, social school with traditions like FuquaVision and the Grad Student Campout for basketball tickets. The program offers countless ways to connect through campus organizations and events. Duke’s world-class academics, athletics, and impressive alumni network made it a dream to study here. As a college sports fan, I couldn’t wait to cheer on the Blue Devils at Cameron Indoor and share that pride with classmates. Plus, Durham’s close-knit, lively community adds to the unique Fuqua experience—students live in similar areas of town, love the same restaurants and nightlife venues, and we stay in town on the weekends to explore what Durham has to offer. Our student body is more connected because Durham provides the perfect backdrop to do so.
I came to business school wanting to develop my ability to think critically about business problems and learn to form my own strategic approaches to solving problems. At Fuqua, I’ve completed the strategy concentration, completed a strategic planning internship at Nike, and have been involved in the Fuqua Client Consulting Practicum (FCCP) as both a student and fellow. Embracing the experiential learning opportunities available to me as a Fuqua student has made me more confident to apply these skills in managerial positions post-MBA.
Before Fuqua
I spent five years as a marketing communications professional in consumer-facing industries. I began my career in the food and beverage industry and also spent time working in entertainment in a marketing capacity. I developed a strong skillset in integrated marketing communications planning, media strategy, marketing partnerships, and shopper marketing.
After Fuqua
After graduation I’m thrilled to be heading back into the consumer products industry as a brand manager for food and beverage brands. My time at Fuqua has sharpened my strategic thinking skills, especially through my strategy concentration, and I can’t wait to pair that with my existing brand experience. I’m excited to help shape the strategic vision and operational plans for brands that are such a big part of our daily lives.
5 Ways to Make Friends at Fuqua
- Join an activity club. Whether you’re really into personal fitness or into indulging in the finest wines, Fuqua’s activity clubs are an easy way to connect with your classmates. Go to the events that interest you, and don’t worry if you don’t know anyone there—go because you enjoy it, and you’ll be glad you did!
- Participate in Fuqua traditions. Our student life at Fuqua is so vibrant, and participating in the events that are core to the Daytime MBA student experience is a great way to bond with your classmates, form core memories, and meet new people! My favorite events of the year are Wine Around the World, Dia de los Muertos, Fuqua Friday, Graduate Student Campout, and the Duke-UNC Blue Cup.
- Shoot your friendship shot. Met someone cool in passing while you were waiting in line for coffee at Fox? Found something in common with someone you did a randomly assigned group project with? If you get the feeling that you and someone could be good friends, don’t be afraid to shoot a friendship shot! Ask them to grab coffee or lunch one day, or meet up with them at a Fuqua event and hang out. You never know what the connection could turn into.
- Maximize section time in Fall 1 and Fall 2. By nature of the program, you spend a lot of time as a 1st year with your section-mates. Be intentional about this time by attending section events (socials, volunteer activities, etc.), sitting next to new people every class, and using break time during class to strike up a conversation with someone you haven’t gotten to speak to much.
- Seize impromptu moments of fun. Being a Fuqua student is incredibly busy, but sometimes something fun comes up spontaneously and you’ve just got to go with it. When you have an opportunity to do something that seems interesting, try to follow that feeling and try it out! You could end up with a new hobby, a new memory or inside joke, and new friends who shared the experience with you!
My Fuqua Activities
Duke MBA Association
Black Business Students Association (BBSA)
Fuqua Client Consulting Practicum (FCCP) Fellow
Christian Business Fellowship
Admissions Fellow
Building Lasting Connections
Top 3 Tips for Writing a Great Application Essay
- Do research beyond the website. You’ll get the best insight into the Fuqua experience by visiting campus, talking to current and former students, and going the extra mile to learn about what the program offers.
- For your 25 Things essay, resist the urge to make it all about professional accomplishments. This is a unique opportunity to tell the Admissions Committee all of the amazing things that make you, you. Have fun and be creative!
- Have a clear vision of what your short and long-term goals are and how Fuqua is uniquely positioned to help you achieve those goals.