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I knew this experience would help me explore intersections between art and business, particularly in storytelling and marketing, which align closely with my career aspirations.
Mahira Jain, Duke in NY Creative Industries (Fall 2024)
What is your favorite memory from your study away experience?
My favorite memory was being able to see the live taping of Jimmy Fallon’s The Tonight Show! It was an incredible experience seeing him live and understanding how a live taping works and how the staff, the lights and the audience play a role to make it successful!
What was a class activity that stood out to you during your program?
One of my favorite excursions was attending Life and Trust, an immersive theater experience. This performance was incredibly unique as I had never experienced immersive theatre before. I had the chance to step into a world where the audience was actively engaged in the storyline, with the actors guiding us through a narrative built on themes of life, peoples’ anxieties and human connection.
What was truly unique about this experience was that it took place in a building that was once a bank on Wall Street and the actors weren’t performing at a distance; they were interacting with me, creating a surreal feeling of being both a participant and an observer. The entire experience felt personal and deeply moving, reminding me of how powerful storytelling can be when it breaks down the barrier between audience and performance.
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What was your favorite excursion that you went on?
One of my favorite memories from my study away experience was the Jackson Heights food tour. I had the chance to explore this vibrant neighborhood, situated in Queens, and was able to taste the food from many different cultures. From Bangladeshi street food to Latin American delicacies, we explored different parts of Jackson Heights and learnt about its history. The tour not only introduced me to new flavors but also gave me a deeper appreciation for the diverse communities that exist in the city.
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Where were your favorite places to go in New York?
Dialogue Coffee is my favorite spot to get work done or just relax. It’s quiet, comfortable, and has incredible options for coffee and matcha. For coffee, Blank Street Coffee was my go-to. They have multiple locations spread across the city and have, in my opinion, the best coffee! Levain Bakery was my favorite treat spot. Their cookies are gooey and totally worth the hype! When I needed a nature break, Central Park was my escape. And for a peaceful evening, catching the sunset at Brooklyn Bridge was the best!
Dim sum, fuchkas, chai, and more—Duke in New York students savor the vibrant flavors of Jackson Heights
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Nothing better than catching the sunset at Brooklyn Bridge
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Where history meets flavor—stories of resilience at the Tenement Museum followed by the crunch of pickles at The Pickle Guys.
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A visit to the famous Carnegie Hall! Uncovering archives and understading how marketing works in the Arts!
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Enjoying a cozy fall evening at central park after class!
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Why did you decide to do Duke in NY Creative Industries?
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I chose this program because I wanted to expand my knowledge and exposure to the arts, something that Duke's curriculum has limited opportunities for. While Duke offers an incredible academic environment, its focus leans more toward traditional disciplines, and I craved hands-on experience in creative industries. Being in New York, surrounded by the vibrant energy of the city and its unparalleled access to art, theater, and design, was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.
I knew this experience would help me explore intersections between art and business, particularly in storytelling and marketing, which align closely with my career aspirations. The chance to learn directly from industry professionals and immerse myself in a city brimming with innovation was the perfect way to broaden my perspective and gain skills I couldn’t develop elsewhere.
What effect did this program have on your career interests after graduation?
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My time in New York exposed me to how creative industries operate, from the marketing of Broadway productions to immersing myself in two internships. It clarified that my strengths lie in combining storytelling with strategy—a skillset that I plan to leverage in industries like entertainment, media, or design consulting.
The program also helped me understand the importance of cultivating connections within creative ecosystems. By attending events, participating in workshops, and engaging with professionals, I gained invaluable insights into how this industry works and what it takes to succeed. Moving forward, I plan to use these experiences to shape my post-graduation plans, whether that means pursuing roles in creative consulting, marketing for arts organizations, or exploring entrepreneurial ventures in the design space.