Student Feature: Chelsea Rose

Hometown

Missouri City, Texas

Undergraduate Institution and Major

The Ohio State University, Sociology

Pre-MBA Work Experience

• Education, Teacher (5 years)
• Coach/Non-profit Professionals (4 years)

Why business school? Why now?

One of my long-term goals is to reimagine the way that we, as a society, experience the workplace. In my time as an educator, I’ve noticed that negative workplace dynamics can be huge barriers in achieving the level of success and impact that we’d like to have. Turnover, unproductive interpersonal conflict, and poor communication skills are just some of the common barriers that I have experienced. Right now, amidst a global pandemic and social unrest, it’s even more important that our business leaders are aware of workplace dynamics and work to actively change systems and structures that allow employees to be fully human. In order to change these systems, one needs a deep historical knowledge of how these systems were created and what forces continue to perpetuate them. I seek to create change at multiple levels and achieve impact in the long-term. 

Why did you pick your school/program? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?

I chose Rice Business because of its commitment to diversity and inclusion. It was important to me that I learn both from and with people who think differently than I do, and as a result I have gained new perspectives. I had the opportunity to join the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) council for the Jones Student Association for Professionals (JSAP), and learned about how difficult it can be to both bring people along with you on the DEI journey as well as create a strong and compelling map for the journey. I gained insight about what students felt needed to change in regards to DEI at Jones and hope to continue moving this work forward as I start my second year. 

What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to your graduating class?

During class, I make it a point to “run back” more of the complex topics that are discussed. This check for understanding (as we know it in education) helps me to solidify the learning, cement it in my brain, and build conceptual understanding of some of the more complicated topics that are covered. While in class, it’s very easy to not want to participate because you may feel like the question you have is a dumb question, but every dumb question I’ve had someone else has also had, and I’m happy to be the one to ask those questions.

Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?

I have run 9 half marathons and 1 full marathon.

Post-MBA career interests?

I’m interested in pursuing a career in consulting. I’m lucky enough to have the opportunity to intern at Accenture Strategy this summer and am looking forward to learning and growing as a strategic thinker and problem solver. 

Advice to current prospective applicants

This sounds really corny, but be yourself. Others can tell when you’re not being authentic and it’s hard to continue with a façade. In essays and interviews, be honest and tell your story in a way that’s compelling and allows people to really get to know you. At the end of the day we’re all people ultimately wanting to connect with other like-minded people. 

What is your initial impression of the school’s students/culture/community?

I have really enjoyed my time at Rice Business. I have built some really great relationships with my classmates and view them as some of the smartest people I have ever and probably will ever know. Starting business school in the heart of a global pandemic has been really tough, but I can say with confidence that Rice Business tries its very best to ensure that students feel connected and part of a community by allowing us to come on campus and hosting events so that we can continue to build that community.

Chelsea Rose is a Professional MBA student in the Class of 2022.