Prenessa D. Lowery
"Before Fuqua, I felt pressure to have everything figured out—the perfect company, career path, and plan. I’ve become more adaptable, more curious, and more comfortable leaning on classmates to navigate uncertainty and uncover new possibilities. This experience reminded me that the best opportunities often come when you release expectations and stay open to growth."
Daytime MBA
Prior Education:
Spelman College
BA Mathematics
Why I Chose Fuqua
Fuqua stood out to me because of the strong sense of community and collaboration I saw among students on campus. From my first interactions, I felt seen and supported, and I knew I would be joining a place where I could grow and give back. The strength of the alumni network, both at Fuqua and across Duke, also gave me confidence that I would be supported long after graduation. Receiving a scholarship played a key role in my decision as well, giving me the financial freedom to explore new paths, travel, and build meaningful connections without debt dictating my choices. Fuqua made pursuing an MBA feel empowering and not limiting, and that made all the difference.
Before Fuqua
Before coming to Fuqua, I worked as a Product Marketer and Marketing Manager at leading tech companies such as IBM and Zayo. I led customer-focused initiatives, managed product launches, and supported strategic campaigns to drive engagement and revenue growth. I also co-founded a culture committee to strengthen team collaboration and professional development. These experiences deepened my passion for marketing and clarified the kind of cross-functional leadership I wanted to develop through an MBA.
After Fuqua
After graduation, I am excited to continue growing in marketing, whether in brand, product, or strategy, by leading initiatives that connect with consumers and drive real results. I want to take the creativity, strategic thinking, and leadership skills I have built at Fuqua and use them to make an impact. No matter the industry, my goal is to help companies grow in ways that are both measurable and meaningful.
5 Favorite Fuqua Clubs or Activities
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Fuqua Friday
The perfect end to the week: good food, drinks, music, and even better conversations with classmates. -
MBA Treks
Exploring a new country with your classmates? Count me in. I went on the Southeast Asia Trek—ask me about it! -
Camp Out
Camping in K-Ville for Duke basketball tickets? Unforgettable. -
Brand Challenge
A hands-on marketing competition where you pitch creative ideas to real CPG companies. It is the perfect mix of strategy, storytelling, and fun, especially when your “client” is a candy brand! -
Blue Cup
Fuqua vs. Kenan-Flagler (UNC) in 20+ sports events. Let’s just say I’ve already started training for 2026.
My Fuqua Activities
Four Seasons, Great Food, and Easy Living
Bringing Your Best to the Interview
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Know Your Story – Be prepared to walk through your journey: what’s driving your decision to pursue an MBA, what you hope to gain from the experience, and why Fuqua is the right fit. Make it personal, specific, and authentic.
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Be Yourself – Don’t over-rehearse. Let your personality and energy shine through. Interviewers want to get to know the real you—and how you’ll contribute to Team Fuqua.
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Own Your Moment – You’ve earned this interview. Be confident in your path and proud of what you’ve accomplished. This is your chance to shine and show why you belong here.