Duncan Cunninghame, Cambridge Judge MBA Class of 2024
Duncan Cunninghame, Cambridge Judge MBA Class of 2024Age: 31
Hometown: Auckland, New Zealand
Undergraduate Institution and Major: University of Auckland – Biomedical Engineering | Otago University – Physiology
Pre-MBA Work Experience (role, company, years): VP of Business Development Europe, The Insides Company, 4 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
I had been considering an MBA for several years by the time I started the application process in 2022. I had been working in the medical device industry for approximately 6 years, across both engineering and commercialization roles and I saw the MBA as a great way to consolidate what I had learned so far but also explore interests in new fields, and effectively develop a broad range of hard and soft skills that are an important part of leading companies and businesses.
Why did you choose Cambridge Judge? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Cambridge is a globally prestigious university and has a strong science community that is constantly increasing its focus on entrepreneurship, which meant that it aligned well with my background in Science and Engineering. Additionally, its proximity and involvement with the ‘Silicon Fen’, or the Silicon Valley of Europe, would give me an ideal opportunity to be exposed to some of the leading technologies and companies in the UK.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2024?
Everyone in the class brings a really valuable perspective, and with such an internationally diverse group, being one of the few from New Zealand and having spent several years working in the UK, I believe I can bring a different cultural dimension to the class.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included in your application:
In 2015, I competed in the New Zealand Red Bull Trolley Grand Prix, where 4 of us built a cart under the theme of ‘Cool Runnings’.
Post-MBA career interests:
There are a number of post-MBA career interests that I want to explore over the next year, but in particular, I am exploring ones that will allow me to utilize the strategic and analytical skills developed during the course. I want to be in areas where I can help drive innovation, make informed decisions, and add value through effective leadership.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would recommend speaking to alumni from the various schools you are interested in. Not only will they be able to tell you about their experiences there and where it has led them, which will hopefully help you narrow down where to apply, but they can also help give an insight on what they think worked for them during the application process.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would try and start the process earlier as this will give you plenty of time to study for the GMAT, and complete the application process, which can take longer than expected, but applying for the courses in the early application rounds can help with your application success and provide a greater selection of colleges/accommodation.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Definitely the GMAT – for me this was the hardest part of the application process and managing study whilst working. I initially underestimated the effort it required, and I would recommend putting together a solid study plan and using the right resources from the start.
What is your initial impression of the Cambridge Judge students/culture/community?
The campus culture around the university is remarkable and with everyone you speak to there is a contagious excitement to get involved with all the university activities that are on offer. Within our class, there are already 55 different WhatsApp groups, and counting, for various interest groups in sports, academics, and projects.
What is one thing you have learned about Cambridge Judge that has surprised you?
The college system at Cambridge and how each college somewhat operates independently. The way they work with the university is a tough one to get your head around but they are great at providing an initial network at the university for social events, accommodation, and support, and they are a special part of the experience here.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
My main concern is around keeping on top of the ever-mounting workload and assignments. I’ve been warned by many that it’s a demanding program with a lot of extracurriculars to get involved with, but I am excited about all of it and managing my time effectively.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
The Global Consulting Project which will take in March 2024. This is where the students get to have an opportunity to work in teams and utilize what has been learned in the MBA to date on a real-world issue for established clients. I think this is a key part of the Cambridge MBA which makes it such a valuable experience.
