Meet Crystal Tomdio, MBA '23

Why did you choose Rice Business?

Prior to Rice, most of my educational and professional experiences have been within large institutions where it is often times difficult to have a voice and meaningful impact. To change that narrative, I chose to pursue my MBA at Rice. Given the smaller class sizes, collaboration and diverse community, I knew Rice would be perfect for me. In fact, the diverse community Rice has built has allowed me to be my authentic African-American self.

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What are you most proud of from your time at Rice Business?

I have a lot to be proud of and most times I don’t give myself enough credit because of how much more I know there is to be done. To count my flowers, however, I will say I am proud of the job offers I received since being admitted to Rice, and I am proud of the work I am currently doing with the Consortium as a first-year rep to bring even more diversity to Rice! 

How has your Rice helped you in your career?

The Career Development Office has been extremely helpful in helping me navigate my career pivot, but the Rice network – or family, as I like to call it – has helped me tremendously on my journey to Rice and during my time here. The network is extensive and always willing to help in whatever way they can. Talking to alums in the industry about their MBA journey and careers has been enlightening and helped me carve out my goals and aspirations in the field. 

What advice would you give prospective students who are considering an MBA?

The MBA journey is very much one of re-discovering oneself and truly being honest with what impact you want to have on the world. That said, do not take it lightly. Allow yourself to go through the process and get clarity along the way. When done right, it is a very rewarding path. Do not doubt yourself because you belong wherever it is you want to go. Last but not least, be intentional. Write down what it is you want to get out of an MBA and go where you can accomplish that.  

What do you think organizations should do better to build a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment?

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Organizations first need to truly understand why diversity is important and see its value in a community. It’s not about satisfying a quota but seeing value in every human being and breaking societal norms and biases. To build diverse, equitable and inclusive organizations, they need to be conscious of where their weaknesses lie and have active plans set in place to evolve. These plans do not stop at recruiting diverse talent but ensuring safe environments to keep and promote diverse talent.

What suggestions do you have to work with allies within the workplace or at school?

The beauty of the MBA at Rice is the opportunity to learn firsthand about biases different groups go through. They are highlighted within our circles and in the classroom so that as leaders of tomorrow, we do not fall into the patterns of the past. As an ally, LISTEN to the concerns of others and learn. Understand boundaries with other groups and speak up for others when needed. 

Do you have any other comments or anecdotes you would like to share?

In honor of Black History Month, I’d like to recognize the Black Business Student Association (BBSA) which has created a community within a community for Black MBA students. Representation as we know is vital in any organization; the BBSA has created a safe space and constantly enforced the importance of our presence on Rice campus. They truly are Black Excellence.