Demir Degirmenci
“Since joining the MQM program, my understanding of data science methods and concepts has improved. While it started as a struggle to write consecutive lines of code, I have now gained a deep understanding of machine learning methods and how to execute them across multiple coding languages. The teachers here at Fuqua make learning complex subjects engaging and their approachability outside of class has kept me from getting lost”
MQM: Business Analytics
My Program Track
Industry:
Prior Education:
Wofford College
Why I Chose Fuqua
I chose to attend Fuqua due to the academically challenging coursework, experienced professors, and Team Fuqua. I wanted a program that would further develop my technical skills and challenge me. With the valuable backgrounds of my instructors, I have been able to seamlessly integrate theory and real-world application. The largest selling point was Team Fuqua, which has a different meaning for each student. To me, it is a supportive and diverse community of students with various educational and work experiences. The Fuqua network is vast. The day after receiving my acceptance letter, I wore my Fuqua hat on a flight home only to sit next to an alum. Two hours of conversation later, I knew Team Fuqua was right for me.
Before Fuqua
As an undergraduate student at Wofford, I worked in the Career Services department conducting research and developing reports on student interactions with Career Services. That opportunity opened my eyes to the power of data analytics and led me to consider graduate school.
After Fuqua
My job search is focused on opportunities in the global footwear industry. As a former collegiate Cross Country/Track & Field athlete who continues to race, running is an important part of my life. I am currently working in a community-based running store not only selling shoes, but leading programs to engage the local running community in Durham. Ideally, I would love to combine my technical experience fitting customers with the best shoes for them, the analytical skills I have developed at Fuqua, and my passion for running into a career in the footwear industry.
5 Essential Durham Food Locations
- Juju – In my opinion, Durham’s best restaurant. Juju is an Asian tapas-style eatery with some of the best selections. Great for ordering single portions or split with a group.
- Dain’s Place – Great to catch Duke away games and grab some greasy food. Dain’s is consistently great.
- Ponysaurus – Outdoor brewery with a pizza place on the side. Ponysaurus was an essential part of my summer term.
- Pizzeria Toro – Wood-fired pizza in the heart of downtown. Pizzeria Toro honestly never misses the spot. I highly recommend the kale salad.
- Elmo’s Diner – As a New Yorker, my affinity for diners is no secret. Elmo’s always makes me feel right back at home.
My Favorite Fuqua Professor
I have learned from some incredible instructors at Fuqua, but if I had to highlight one it would be Ericka Kranitz. I will never forget walking into my first class here at Fuqua, Business Fundamentals. Professor Kranitz teaches the Accounting portion of the multi-disciplinary course. She started with an hour-long discussion of the enterprise that is Taylor Swift. Her teaching style is engaging, entertaining, and understandable. I was fortunate to have her for Managing Operational and Informational Risks the following term. Outside of class, she is caring and approachable. She helps each student when they are struggling with the concepts or material. She is helping guide me through the job market and continues to follow up with a genuine interest in me.
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%)