Annabelle Wright, Duke Fuqua MMS Class of 2026
Age: 22
Hometown: Newark, NJ
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Duke University, Sociology + Markets & Management Certificate
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
During my senior year at Duke, I realized that I wanted a more well-rounded background in business. While my undergraduate experience had given me a glimpse into various business disciplines, I felt that I had only scratched the surface. I’ve always been drawn to marketing, but after exploring the Master’s of Management Studies program, I saw that it offered the opportunity to not only deepen my knowledge of marketing but also broaden my understanding of business as a whole. Overall, the possibility of discovering new areas of interest that could open up additional career paths I hadn’t yet considered excites me.
Why did you choose Duke Fuqua? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Fuqua primarily for the Team Fuqua culture. The sense of community was reinforced during my conversations with current students at the time who were open about their experiences. Hearing the stories of students who were in my same shoes during their senior year of undergrad truly helped me connect with them. Their genuine enthusiasm, truth, and positive feedback played a major role in my decision to attend this program, not simply the education but the community as well.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the class?
My most valuable contribution is my willingness to help others. I’ve always been someone who enjoys supporting and mentoring those around me. This led me to become an Admissions Ambassador for the program. I wanted to pay forward the support I received from current students during my application process. Just as those ambassadors made an impact on me, I hope to do the same for prospective students considering Fuqua as well.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I love handmade gifts. I appreciate the thought and intention behind them, and I keep them to look back on. I still have my birthday present that I received from my best friend during my freshman year of high school.
Post-MMS career interests:
I hope to pursue a career in Marketing, leveraging the skills and knowledge that I gain from the program. While utilizing this program to further assist me in these types of roles.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Reaching out to current students was the best decision that I made during the application process. Hearing their perspectives of students who were currently in the weeds of the program gave more insight than I could have ever found on the university website. And I would do it again!
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
I would give myself more grace during the application process. Applying in the midst of the pressures of senior year made me 10x more worried about what my next steps in life looked like. Whether that be attending grad school or stepping into the workforce, I would take more time to breathe and not put so much pressure on myself…
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Initially, I struggled with the “25 Things About Me” portion of the application. At first glance, I was very happy to see that portion and thought it’d be fun, but actually coming up with the list was more difficult than expected. However, after thinking about how my friends/family would describe me, considering how I would introduce myself to others, the list came together more easily than expected.
What is your initial impression of the Duke Fuqua students/culture/community?
Nothing could’ve prepared me for the diversity of experiences I encountered on my first day at Fuqua. The students at Fuqua come from such varied backgrounds and stages in their lives. This led to more engaging conversations and learning experiences. While it’s great to connect with people who share similar interests, interacting with those who have different life experiences is equally valuable. This diversity of perspectives has made my time here even more rewarding.
What is one thing you have learned about Duke Fuqua that has surprised you?
The level of support within the Fuqua community. Not only within my program, but within the school overall. When I first entered the program, I expected the environment to be extremely competitive and cutthroat. However, that was not the case. The support system is strong and not limited to the MMS program, but it also extends throughout the whole institution, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere, from making genuine friends to gaining insightful career advice. It’s an environment where the students help each other succeed.
