Leading From Within: Spotlight on the Rice Business MAcc Student Committee

At Rice Business, leadership isn’t just something you learn — it’s something you live. In the Master of Accounting (MAcc) program, one standout way students put leadership into action is through the MAcc Student Committee. This student-led group plays a vital role in shaping the MAcc experience, connecting peers with faculty, alumni, and industry professionals, and organizing events that foster both community and career readiness.

Here’s how the MAcc Student Committee is making a meaningful impact.

What is the MAcc Student Committee?

The MAcc Student Committee is a student-selected body that enhances the academic and professional journey of MAcc students while cultivating a strong, connected community. Composed of representatives from each cohort, the committee collaborates closely with faculty and staff to ensure the student voice is reflected in both program decisions and extracurricular offerings.

Key Areas of Impact

Community-Building and Connection

Creating a strong sense of community is especially important in an intensive, one-year program like the MAcc. The Student Committee leads initiatives that foster meaningful relationships, including:
•    Welcome mixers and cohort dinners
•    Group volunteer days with Houston nonprofits
•    Peer-led study sessions and team-building outings

These events provide students with opportunities to connect, recharge, and support one another — helping everyone thrive both academically and socially.

“I joined the committee to help build a stronger sense of community within our cohort and create meaningful shared experiences. It was a chance to take on a leadership role, develop new relationships, and make our year together truly memorable. Being part of the committee allowed me to connect more deeply with my peers and form lasting friendships.”      — Aizhan Mukhametzhanova

Academic Feedback and Advocacy

The committee also acts as a conduit between students and faculty, collecting feedback and offering suggestions to improve the academic experience. From facilitating peer study sessions to advocating for collaborative learning opportunities, the committee ensures each student has the resources and support to succeed.

“I joined the committee because I wanted to be intentional about getting involved. With the program being just one year, I knew I had a limited window to make the most of the experience and help our cohort build strong connections.”      — Aramide Ogunmekan

Leading With Purpose

By serving on the MAcc Student Committee, members gain more than networking and organizational experience — they build leadership skills that translate directly to the workplace. Committee work includes project management, event planning, conflict resolution, and strategic communication — all essential skills for tomorrow’s accounting professionals.

“I’ve always valued leadership opportunities, and the MAcc Committee felt like the perfect way to grow closer to my peers while organizing events that brought energy and connection to our program.”   — JJ Edmonds

A Legacy of Leadership

Each year, the MAcc Student Committee leaves behind a legacy — from launching new networking traditions to enhancing alumni engagement and social programming. These student-led initiatives enrich the program for future cohorts and ensure a continuously evolving, student-centered experience.

Being part of the committee is more than just a résumé booster — it’s a leadership opportunity that directly shapes classroom dynamics, professional outcomes, and the lifelong value of the Rice MAcc degree.

Interested in Learning More?

If you're a prospective student seeking a program where you can lead, collaborate, and grow, Rice Business offers the perfect environment to do so. Learn more about the MAcc program, attend an event, or complete our request for information form to explore how you can make your mark.
 

Does an accounting-based career sound like it’s for you? Contact us at ricemacc@rice.edu! We would love to share more information with you about the benefits of pursuing a graduate accounting degree at Rice.