Cindy Cai
“The school has been such a welcoming environment that I can’t imagine finding anything quite like it elsewhere. My master’s experience has been enriched by a wealth of new cultures, perspectives, personalities, and stories, all within a community of the most exceptional people I could ever hope for.”
MMS: Foundations of Business
Industry:
Prior Education:
University of Melbourne
Why I Chose Fuqua
Every Fuqua alumnus I interacted with during the program interview, and at the Fuqua Around the World alumni event, embodied kindness and generosity. I wanted to be part of a community that not only strives for excellence but also channels passion into making a positive impact on the world. I was deeply inspired by their down-to-earth personalities and willingness to share, which solidified my decision that Fuqua was where I truly belonged.
As someone who thrives in collaborative environments, I have always been a strong advocate for teamwork. I love the dynamic of team discussions and the sparks that arise from diverse perspectives, leading to new thoughts and ideas. These collaborative efforts push us beyond individual limitations—what we know is finite, but through others, we gain access to knowledge and insights we wouldn’t otherwise have. Fuqua’s team-oriented program perfectly aligns with my values and desire to learn, grow, and excel in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Before Fuqua
Before joining MMS, I interned with Deloitte’s Climate and Energy team in Melbourne, Australia. This experience was pivotal in solidifying my interest in climate and sustainability. I also interned in financial advisory, e-commerce, and startups, each offering unique perspectives and skill sets. These experiences gave me a glimpse into the opportunities and challenges within the industry and inspired me to explore what another country might offer, which ultimately led me to pursue the MMS program in the U.S.
After Fuqua
I aspire to build a career in impact, specifically working on initiatives related to climate and sustainability. I’m particularly drawn to the energy industry, though I recognize that sustainability is broad and evolving.
With my background in economics, finance, and now management, I hope to explore opportunities that allow me to contribute meaningfully to the global transition toward net-zero emissions. My goal is to leverage my skills and knowledge to drive positive change in this area.
5 Tips for Maximizing Your Time at Fuqua
- Fuqua Around the World: This is your perfect chance to connect with alumni before arriving in Durham.
- Fuqua Fridays: Grab some food while interacting with the Fuqua community.
- Conferences: Fuqua attracts some of the best minds in the industry. Take advantage of these opportunities to learn from the best and gain valuable insights for your journey ahead.
- Support sports events: Duke is home to one of the best sports teams in the nation, and you don’t want to miss the Blue Devils experience. Cheer loud and be part of the excitement!
- Duke Arts has many events like piano recitals, pottery workshops, and other DIY crafts. It’s a wonderful way to relax and pick up new skills while engaging with the artistic side of Duke.
What I Love about Durham
At first glance, Durham might seem like a quiet place, but a closer look reveals a city full of hidden gems. One of my recent discoveries is Yonder, a café that serves drinks rivaling those in Melbourne—a city famous for its coffee culture. For Yonder to compare says everything about how great it is!
Durham is a city where there’s always something new to explore or an activity to try, as long as you’re willing to look for it. The city exudes a genuine, welcoming vibe, and the people here are incredibly friendly. I’ve even made new friends with locals over a simple cup of coffee, leading to wonderful connections.
In addition to exploring, I volunteer at the Animal Protection Shelter, where I’ve been struck by the generosity of the community. People here are always willing to contribute and support one another, which is truly inspiring.
Though small, both the school and the city offer a wealth of experiences to suit just about anyone. It’s a place where you can always find something to make it your own.
MSQM:HA students "meet" in Durham without leaving home
Global Executive MBA
Top Areas of Career Focus
Financial Services (20%)
Consulting (5%)
Sales/Business Development (5%)
Energy/Chemical/Gas (9%)
Marketing/PR/Advertising (6%)
Consumer Goods (3%)
Average Age
Average Work Experience
Countries Represented
Women
Non-US Citizenship
Master of Management Studies: Duke Kunshan University
Undergraduate Majors
Business/Accounting (51%)
Economics (22%)
Liberal Arts (14%)
Engineering/Natural Sciences (10%)
Other (4%)
Average Age
Average Work Experience
Countries Represented
Women
Non-US Citizenship
Master of Management Studies: Foundations of Business
Undergraduate Majors
Liberal Arts (33%)
Business/Accounting (24%)
Engineering/Natural Sciences (18%)
Economics (17%)
Other (8%)
Average Age
Average Work Experience
Countries Represented
Women
Non-US Citizenship
Weekend Executive MBA
Top Areas of Career Focus
IT (16%)
Financial Services (14%)
Health Care/Health Services (10%)
Manufacturing/Operations (9%)
Sales/Business Development (8%)
Consulting (8%)