Meet Duke Fuqua’s MBA Class Of 2019

Chase Ulicny 

Duke University, The Fuqua School of Business

Describe yourself in 15 words or less: Passionate, devoted, and driven person who loves being around family and friends.

Hometown: La Habra, California

Fun Fact About Yourself: I was a walk-on collegiate basketball player at two NCAA Division 1 programs – Utah Valley University and Brigham Young University.

Undergraduate School and Major: Brigham Young University, The Marriott School of Management, Management major with an emphasis on Global Supply Chain Management

Employers and Job Titles Since Graduation: Only 1 employer, Avery Dennison Corporation

National Business Development Manager, China

Regional Product Manager, Asia Pacific

Regional Procurement Manager, Asia Pacific

Regional Procurement Analyst, Asia Pacific & North America

Master Production Scheduler & Buyer/Planner

Supply Chain Analyst

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: Relocating to Shanghai, China, to implement strategic sourcing processes for a Fortune 500 company, and establish an online sourcing platform for the company’s Asia Pacific region. Following the implementation, the company was able to systematically drive savings through incumbent supplier negotiations and new supplier qualifications annually, and maintain raw material continuity.

Looking back on your experience, what one piece of advice would you give to future business school applicants? Start the application process as early as possible. This will give you time to construct a compelling MBA application story, including writing fantastic essays. You don’t want to be rushing and at the last minute and submit an application that isn’t your absolute best.

What was the key factor that led you to choose this program for your full-time MBA and why was it so important to you? While researching Duke Fuqua and throughout the application process, I could feel the “Team Fuqua” spirit. Growing up playing sports, I know the power of teams and the magic that can take place when teammates pull in the same direction. I want that team experience throughout my MBA, my career, and my life. In the end, people are the most important thing in one’s life.

Additionally, during the application and interview process, I felt wanted by The Fuqua School of Business people. The people I came in contact with made me feel like a special candidate. That was shown loud and clear when I was offered a scholarship to attend the program.

What would success look like to you after your first year of business school?  I will have gained mastery with the core subject matter; scored near the top of my class in my courses; made lifelong bonds with classmates, faculty, and alumni; and have the internship I want lined up that will lead to full-time employment.