Summer Internship with Duke Capital Partners
Xi Yang, Daytime MBA 2026
This summer I worked as a Summer Associate at Duke Capital Partners (DCP), where I supported sourcing and evaluating early-stage companies and contributed to portfolio tracking and internal operations.
I applied my MBA training in structured problem-solving and data analysis to make a meaningful contribution. A highlight was building an interactive portfolio dashboard that transformed scattered information into a clear, practical resource for tracking investments and trends. By listening to feedback and iterating quickly, I delivered a tool that will support the team well beyond my internship. I also worked on deal screening, applying classroom frameworks on market size, team assessment, traction, and valuation to help the team evaluate opportunities more systematically. In addition, I contributed to internal process improvements, brainstorming ways to strengthen sourcing and reporting workflows during team planning sessions.
Coming from structured enterprise environments, stepping into such a fast-moving and ambiguous setting pushed me outside my comfort zone. At DCP, I gained my first real exposure to venture capital and the startup ecosystem, while also experiencing the value of being part of a collaborative community. On a personal level, it was my first professional role in the U.S., where I grew by learning how to adapt and engage in a new culture.
Looking ahead, I plan to stay active in venture and investment-related roles, carrying forward the lessons I gained at DCP, especially the ability to bring structure to ambiguity, create clarity for decision-makers, and contribute meaningfully in high-impact settings.
This internship was supported by the Summer Internship Fund, which enables first-year Duke MBA students to learn about the rewards and challenges of using business to drive positive impact without making a significant financial sacrifice. The program enables organizations that otherwise could not afford to hire MBA student interns to benefit from students’ expertise. Funds are raised through student fundraising and from donors who believe in the mission of the program. If you would like to contribute, you can donate online using your credit card.