Duke’s Fuqua Students: Real-World Consulting Adventures

Published: March 27, 2026
Originally from The Office of Interdisciplinary Programs.

A Scientist’s Journey into Consulting

When Wendy Gu stepped into Duke’s Fuqua School of Business for her Executive MBA, she was a scientist already making waves in research and development. But consulting? That was uncharted territory.

Discovering New Horizons with FCCP

The Fuqua Client Consulting Practicum (FCCP) gave Wendy a taste of the consulting realm. This is no ordinary classroom gig. It’s a hands-on course where students roll up their sleeves with real businesses and NGOs, tackling nitty-gritty challenges. From brainstorming to presenting strategic solutions, about 400 students dive headfirst each year.

Tackling Real Business Challenges

Wendy’s team collaborated with Viewflow Medical, a startup that’s all about innovation in healthcare. They’re crafting a tool to track blood flow during surgeries. Wendy explains, “We helped them pinpoint which surgical specialties could benefit the most.” Oh, and they even connected the startup with potential pilot partners—two surgeons at Duke.

Leadership in Action

The project nudged Wendy out of her comfort shell. She boldly took on the role of project lead. Initially, she didn’t see herself as a leader, but FCCP was her sandbox to experiment. “It was all about leadership in a supportive setting,” she recalls.

Business Skills and Confidence Boost

The FCCP stint was a confidence booster, sharpening Wendy’s business acumen. Transitioning from science to the business side of healthcare wasn’t just a leap; it was a whole new perspective. She reflects, “I came to Fuqua for this—shifting gears into a business role.”

From Fuqua to McKinsey

So where did this journey land Wendy? An offer from McKinsey as an associate—jackpot! “FCCP was pivotal,” she beams. The consulting role and the storytelling skills honed in interviews sealed the deal.

For more on Wendy’s story, check out The Office of Interdisciplinary Programs.