Sociology major Olivia Carner talks to us about why she is pursuing an MMS Certificate. Olivia is a junior and is currently part of the MMS Ambassador team.
I was first introduced to the MMS Certificate by members of my lacrosse team. I was told that this certificate would give me the opportunity to explore several areas of business. I have always been fascinated by the finance industry and I knew these courses would further develop my leadership, decision-making, and management skills. I couldn’t be happier with my decision to join this program.
The first course I took in the MMS program was Managerial Effectiveness. This course is taught by Professor George Grody. He is an intelligent, engaging professor who puts in an extra effort to inspire his students. This course gave me insight towards the managerial strategies that enhance organizational effectiveness. After taking this first course I knew I was going to continue pursuing the certificate.
My favorite course that I have taken is Managerial Finance with Professor Ed Tiryakian. This class taught me the fundamentals of corporate finance. We learned about the social functions and implications of financial markets and financial institutions. On the first day of class, we were divided into teams and assigned a Private Equity firm. My team was assigned to Nike and each week we analyzed the different ways to maximize our firm’s value.
I have spent the past several years studying society and human behavior. I am fascinated in learning more about individuals who come from different cultures and backgrounds. This critical and analytical thinking has benefited me throughout my time at Duke. I am hoping to connect my knowledge from sociology and finance with a career in sales and trading.
I hope to build long lasting relationships with my peers here at Duke. I have already learned so much from my professors and coaches that I will remember for the rest of my life. Forming these connections in college is great practice for the outside world especially when you are beginning to network for future jobs.
I was most surprised by the professors here at Duke. I have found that my professors, specifically in the MMS program, go above and beyond for their students. They are not only interested in your academic ability, but they genuinely care about you as an individual. I have learned a lot of valuable life-lessons from my professors that branch outside of the academic field. I find it very admirable when professors make this extra effort to form meaningful relationships with their students.
Students considering the MMS program should know that you will be given the opportunity to explore the soft skills needed to do well in this industry. There are a ton of job opportunities out there, but it is important to master the skills of leadership, teamwork, work ethic and many more. I am so thankful for my experience in MMS, as it has provided me with the skills necessary to be successful in the real world.
Markets Management Studies
