Halle Duenkel

E-mail:

dbu2tu@virginia.edu

Where are you currently located?

Arlington, VA

Job title and/or industry:

IT consulting

What is your academic background and motivation for pursuing the M.S. in MIT degree?

My academic background is in Computer Information Systems with minors in Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Honors Interdisciplinary Studies–which just means that I love to problem-solve using IT. I chose the MSMIT Program because I believed it was the best in helping me obtain both my short and long-term goals. I selected this cohort because it was evident that it would provide me with the platform, knowledge, and network to drive toward the required excellence that is needed in my current job.

What appealed to you the most about the M.S. in MIT Program?

The four modules in the program revolving around enterprise architecture, project and project management, digital transformation, and IT strategy were the best curriculum for helping my immediate needs of the project I am on, and the classes would allow me to make an impact instantaneously after learning the information, unlike with other programs, where it might have happened later in my career. Lastly, this program is known for having members who are from a wide variety of background. UVA chooses distinctively different people in their current project roles, time in the workplace, industry, and so much more, which I thought would be a perfect fit in helping me gain a new perspective for solving problems and allowing me to collaborate with a fresh perspective.

What are you looking forward to or have you enjoyed most so far in the M.S. in MIT Program?

The people! Working with diverse peers in the M.S. in MIT Program has been a true delight and extremely refreshing. Their varied backgrounds and real-world experiences have enriched my learning beyond the classroom, complementing the program’s teachings. I am also looking forward to the Argentina study-abroad program in December—an opportunity to expand my understanding of international business and collaboration with a global perspective!

What are your interests and hobbies?

I love anything outdoors, exercising, watching sports (go Hoos and Dukes), spending time with family and friends, coaching and reffing lacrosse, and traveling to the beach!

Where is your favorite place you have traveled?

Bethany Beach will forever be my happy place. Since I was a little girl, I have spent every summer there with my family and friends, and it has become a place full of amazing memories for me!

What is your favorite thing to do during residencies?

We haven’t had one yet, but I have been going to UVA since I was little with my family for sports games. Currently, when I go to UVA, I love to go to the football or lacrosse games to cheer on my brothers! Hoping to have more memories with my cohort peers down in Charlottesville!