Stone Chen
“The diversity at Fuqua has really opened my eyes and changed my thinking about how a leader should lead. The richness of interests, backgrounds, and beliefs transformed me to focus more on listening and empathizing with others. I see the benefit of understanding one’s perspective even if you do not fully agree with it.”
MMS: Foundations of Business
Industry:
Prior Education:
University of Melbourne
Mechanical Engineering, 2021
Why I Chose Fuqua
Although I have an undergraduate engineering degree, I really wanted to transition into business to further explore the technology world, meet new people, and expand my horizons, especially in the US. This led me to search for a program which had great academics, outstanding faculty, and a well-established alumni network. And Fuqua ticked all the boxes. I loved the commitment to leadership beyond just intelligence and emotion—the focus on a decency quotient, which means the desire to do the right thing for others. I also valued Fuqua’s vast alumni network, which have allowed me to connect with so many people, in all corners of the world, and learn about their experiences in industry.
Before Fuqua
I worked part time at Apple Retail as Product Specialist while attending my undergrad, as well as at Fireball Tennis Academy doing data analytics.
After Fuqua
After graduation, I plan on pursuing supply chain/operations within the tech industry. The complexity of supply chain fascinates me, with materials and products moving around the world to be manufactured, assembled, and sold. I hope to use my passion in tech and the business knowledge gained at Fuqua to make this industry a better place, especially after the strain COVID had on supply chains around the world.
5 Random Things About Me
- I love collecting Apple products. I began collecting about five years ago and now have over 80 items in my collection, including pre-2000 Macintosh computers and an assortment of Mac and iPod accessories. My most prized items are the PowerMac G4 Cube and the original Macintosh Mouse.
- I used to own a 3D printer in Australia, so I could print myself cool items like customized keychains and tabletop decorations.
- It is my dream to watch a rocket launch in person… Starship maybe?
- After a match at the Australian Open tennis tournament 2021, tennis star Novak Djokovic tossed me a racquet he used during the match. I also have two selfies with him and a signed autobiography book.
- I speak 3 languages: Chinese, English and Australian :)
My Favorite Professor
Ryan McDevitt’s Economics class has been my favorite so far. While I have always had an interest in economics, I never felt motivated to study and investigate the field myself. However, after Professor McDevitt’s class, I have begun reading books on various topics of economics. McDevitt makes the class engaging by linking taught concepts with present-day, relevant, real-world examples, but also taking the time to explain the math slowly and clearly. He is also somehow able to incorporate jokes into his lecture in places we never expected. Overall, Professor McDevitt is knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely cares about his students.