Meet Maya Stine, MBA '23

What was your pre-MBA Industry and function?

• Entertainment, Voiceover Actor and Podcast Producer

What will be your post-MBA Industry and function?

• Consulting

Why did you want to pursue your MBA?

I have always been a curious person. Since I was younger, I would look for new information that would help me understand our world. That mission took me through the sciences, entertainment, entrepreneurship and a variety of hobbies. Along the way, I realized that while I could learn things in isolation, there was greater benefit from learning about their interactions. I view business as a force in our society that connects all topics and fields, and I wanted to learn the intricacies involved; this is what led me to pursue an MBA.

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Why did you choose Rice Business?

I felt welcomed by Rice Business from the beginning. Throughout the application process I was able to connect with current students, alumni and the admissions committee whenever I had questions. I appreciated how available and willing to chat everyone was and wanted to be a part of that type of community. Also, the warm weather in Houston is nice :)

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

Out of everything I have done at Rice Business, I am most proud of receiving internship offers from all of the companies I interviewed with. When starting the MBA program, I was concerned because I have a unique background and knew that I would have to work hard to convey my capabilities. I dove right into the MBA experience by participating in case competitions, signing up for additional tutoring so my grades would reflect what I’ve learned, and spent every weekend on campus doing interview prep. Happily, it all paid off, and I feel like I have met my goals.

What are you most proud of in your career?

I am most proud of making the shift from laboratory scientist into entertainment. My first job offered a very clear and stable career path, but it did not excite me. I had no close connections to the entertainment industry so I had to do all my own research and make my own connections. Pivoting can be intimidating and sometimes it can feel like you will never be ready; taking the leap requires courage and a willingness to face uncertainty.

How has the Rice MBA helped you in your career?

Being a part of the Rice MBA program has allowed me to meet many people in a variety of fields. I never would have had access to some of these people beforehand, and I might not have even known I needed to chat with them! If I have a question, there is someone out there who can get me an answer and someone at Rice Business who will connect me with that person. 

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What does it mean to you to be a woman in business?

For me, being a woman in business means having choices. It is liberating to feel like I can go into new industries or functions and have the ability to get the job done. I am very grateful for all of the women before me who paved the way, took a stand against the nay-sayers and opened up these numerous possibilities.

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

I would tell prospective students to keep an open mind but to really reflect and know who they are before and throughout the MBA experience. There are so many things you can do and ways you can get involved over the two years. It’s physically impossible to take advantage of everything. Having goals, knowing your interests and your values will guide you through all of the many opportunities and help you take advantage of the MBA in a way that’s best for you and your career.

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

Most of us approach an MBA from one point of view – our point of view. I remember thinking about what classes I would take, what clubs I wanted to sign up for, how it could help my career, etc. What’s interesting, is that an MBA, especially a Rice MBA, is not a solo process. In addition to a heavy emphasis on teamwork, I have felt supported every step of the way whether it be from professors, clubs, the Career Development Office, new friends, old friends or family. At the end of the day, the MBA will be for me, but I could not have done it on my own.