Alumni Q&A: Drew Sussman

1. What inspired you to give back to Fuqua so early in your career, and why is supporting the school important to you?
My inspiration to give back to Fuqua early in my career stems from the immense support and opportunities I received during my time there. The education, mentorship, and network provided by Fuqua have all been instrumental in shaping my professional journey to date. Supporting the school is important to me because I want to ensure that future students have access to the same resources and opportunities that I did. By giving back, I hope to contribute to the continued success and growth of the Fuqua community, fostering a culture of support and collaboration.

2. How did your Fuqua experience shape the person and professional you are today?
My Fuqua experience profoundly shaped both the person and professional I am today. The rigorous academics provided a strong foundation in strategy, communication, and organizational behavior, which complemented the more technical courses in capital markets, economics, and accounting that are essential for navigating the alternative investment landscape. The team-oriented learning approach honed my collaborative abilities in tandem with the development of analytical and decision-making skills. Furthermore, from my first job in public policy to my time in private capital advisory, the Fuqua network has offered ongoing support and mentorship opportunities, making it an integral and reliable resource. Even today, I continue to reflect on the lessons learned both inside and outside the classroom during my time at Fuqua, while also gaining new lessons from my continued involvement with the community. My Fuqua experience is truly an evergreen source of value for my personal and professional development.

3. What would you say to recent graduates who feel like their contributions might not make a difference?
To recent graduates who feel their contributions might not make a difference, I would say that every contribution, no matter the size, collectively supports the Fuqua community. Small donations add up and can significantly impact the availability of scholarships, programs, and resources. Your involvement also sets a precedent for lifelong giving and demonstrates a commitment to supporting future generations. By contributing, you join a network of alumni who collectively make a substantial difference. 

4. In what ways has staying engaged with Fuqua—whether through giving, volunteering, or networking—benefited you personally or professionally?
Staying engaged with Fuqua through giving, volunteering, and networking has been immensely beneficial both personally and professionally. The connections I've made have provided ongoing support, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities, which have been invaluable throughout my career. Volunteering has allowed me to give back to the community that has shaped me, while also enhancing my leadership and collaboration skills. Additionally, staying connected with the Fuqua network has kept me informed about industry trends and new opportunities, ensuring that I remain competitive in my field. This engagement has fostered a sense of belonging and a commitment to lifelong learning and growth.

5. What advice do you have for new alumni looking to stay involved and support Fuqua, even if they're just starting out in their careers?
My advice for new alumni looking to stay involved and support Fuqua is to start at whatever level suits your current capacity, and be consistent. Even if you're just starting out in your career, your time, skills, and financial contributions of any magnitude can make a big difference. Attend alumni events, volunteer for mentorship programs, and stay connected with the Fuqua network. These actions not only support the community but also help you build valuable relationships and accelerate your personal and professional development. Every bit of involvement counts and contributes to the strength and success of the Fuqua community.