Stephanie Zempolich, Duke Fuqua MMS Class of 2025
Age: 23
Hometown: Clifton, VA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Duke University, International Comparative Studies
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
In my senior year at Duke, I was planning on entering the Army upon graduation as a second lieutenant through the ROTC program I was completing. I ended up not being able to do so, however, because of an injury. I knew I really enjoyed many of the management type classes I had taken and aspects of ROTC, but there was no undergraduate business major to pursue. I made the decision to attend business school the year after graduating because I wanted to gain the fundamental knowledge that I didn’t gain in my undergraduate career necessary to pursue a career in finance, marketing, and/or consulting. I also chose to attend it when I did, because my specific program allows for you to come back later in life and pursue another year of study to earn your full MBA, and I knew I wanted that option somewhere down the line.
Why did you choose Duke Fuqua? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
I chose Duke Fuqua for several reasons, primarily the alumni experiences, class offerings, and the Team Fuqua culture. Friends and former teammates who completed the program told me how positively it impacted their lives, whether through meeting amazing people or receiving strong support for job searching and networking.
I wasn’t entirely sure what career I wanted to pursue, but knew the course offerings at Fuqua would help me narrow down my path. Ultimately, the Team Fuqua environment was the deciding factor for me. Having played lacrosse in college and participated in ROTC, I love working and learning in collaborative, team-based settings. Fuqua’s emphasis on learning and growing together in a diverse and supportive community truly stood out to me, and felt like the perfect fit.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the class?
I believe my most valuable contribution to the class is my experience in team and leadership settings. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have played lacrosse in college and served as an Army ROTC cadet. These experiences taught me how to work effectively in diverse teams, tackle challenges under pressure, analyze situations, and make quick, thoughtful decisions.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I studied German classes for 5 years growing up! I’m not fluent, but I could probably read a decent amount and contribute to some conversation!
Post-MMS career interests:
– I am currently hoping to pursue a career in marketing, particularly in Media and/or Sports.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Reaching out to current and former alumni. Speaking with them helped me make my decision by giving me a clearer picture of the program, including what they loved, struggled with, and gained from the experience.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
One thing I would have done differently would have been to apply earlier. I applied in the last round, and even though it had no effect on my actual application, I would have loved to have gotten to attend Blue Devil Days in April with some of the already admitted students.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
It is quite fun overall, but I’d have to say the “25 things about me” list you have to create during the application process. It is fun, but I really struggled to think of 25 random things and it took way longer than expected. However, I was able to finish it by asking my friends and family for some ideas!
What is your initial impression of the Duke Fuqua MMS students/culture/community?
I was fortunate to already know a lot about Fuqua and Duke as a former undergraduate. However, Fuqua still managed to exceed my expectations within the first few days. I remember being struck by how welcoming, inclusive, and diverse the environment was. Everyone was so open to making connections and helping one another. Seeing the Team Fuqua spirit in action among people who had just arrived was truly amazing!
What is one thing you have learned about Duke Fuqua that has surprised you?
The variety of different programs and tracks offered. Along with the MMS program, there’s the MQM program with its specialized tracks, multiple MBA programs, exchange programs, and DKU. I had no idea just how expansive Duke Fuqua was until my first term ended, and the rest of the programs arrived. It’s been amazing getting to build connections with such a wide range of students.
