Balancing Student Life and University Leadership: Meet Executive MBA student Anne Santos

Education and Career Training

I attended Boston University’s School of Hospitality Administration as an undergraduate and obtained a graduate certificate in nonprofit management from Harvard Extension School.

Image

Tell us about your current roles and career journey.

As the assistant dean for finance and administration for the Susanne M. Glasscock School of Continuing Studies at Rice University, I provide strategic guidance and oversight of the Dean’s Office in HR administration, research and grant administration, financial operations, compliance and academic appointments.

My journey toward a career in higher education has been nonlinear and unconventional. I am a first-generation immigrant and grew up in a foreign country where I had to adapt to new customs, culture, behaviors and norms during my formative years. My home environment, language and favorite foods differed from my peers; however, I learned to develop resilience and adaptability over the years.

I chose a career in hospitality because of my genuine fondness for people. Despite being an introvert, I uncovered a passion for creating memorable guest experiences and listening to their stories. Little did I know that these experiences would shape my desire to serve others and, eventually, a greater purpose. In my current role at Rice, it is a privilege to be a part of a community where I can contribute to the growth and success of non-traditional students who face diverse challenges and barriers as professionals while pursuing higher education. The collective efforts of my team members enhance my commitment to making a positive impact.

Why did you choose a Rice Business Executive MBA?

As I evaluated business schools across the nation, I could not ignore the fragmented nature of the American Dream in our politically divided nation. The challenges of AAPI hate, antisemitism, economic pressures and rising costs have cast a shadow on the pursuit of success and equality. However, these factors fuel my determination to make a difference. I refuse to be deterred by obstacles; instead, I am driven to contribute to a society where everyone has equal access to education, opportunities and success.

This uncommon journey led me to Rice's Executive MBA program. Rice's rich diversity of experiences, perspectives and backgrounds mirrors my own path. It was the perfect platform for me to continue my academic pursuits and make an even more significant impact in higher education.

What do you enjoy the most about being a Rice MBA student?

The most enjoyable, for me, is the diversity of the Rice MBA student cohorts and the close-knit community among staff, faculty, students and alumni. Located in the heart of Houston, Rice is uniquely positioned to provide a rigorous academic challenge and a breadth of cultural opportunities, be it in dining, the arts, or anything in between.

How does the program positively impact you at work, and can you share an example of applying what you learned on the job?

We recently concluded a series of sessions on negotiation skills with Jing Zhou, the deputy dean of academic affairs at Rice Business. During these experiential learning sessions, our cohort explored and shared different approaches and outcomes with each other. I was pleasantly surprised at how useful it was for me to apply the various frameworks to negotiate deadlines and project scopes on behalf of the Glasscock School Dean’s Office.

Anne Santos is an Executive MBA student in the Class of 2025.