Student Feature: Julianne Katz

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At Rice Business, our clubs, organizations and conferences give students the opportunity to cultivate their leadership and business skills and to network with experts in different industries. Julianne Katz was president of the 21st annual Women In Leadership Conference, Authentic Voices: Defining and Expressing Your True Identity, and this was her experience.

Why did you choose Rice?  

Initially, it was my very generous scholarship opportunity that opened my eyes up to Rice. But the real decision maker was the community. In my two visits to campus for Rice Business Admit Weekends, I already felt that I had built lifelong relationships with my future classmates. I also felt like the faculty and staff really believed in my potential and would support me. Other “pros” that influenced my decision were the small class size, the opportunity to network in the large and vibrant city of Houston, and the strong Entrepreneurship program, to name a few.

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What did you learn while running your respective conference/competition?

Running the Women in Leadership Conference (WILC) during the peak of Covid-19 was an exercise in innovation. We had the opportunity, and the support from Rice, to make bold changes to the usual format and line-up.

The greatest takeaways for me were: (1) trust your gut when taking chances on new ideas, (2) surround yourself with a passionate and capable team who you know you can count on, (3) lead with joy, and the rest will follow.

Where did you start your career and where are you now?  

I began my career as a theater performer (my first job was performing a principal role on a Broadway National Tour), and then as a Director/Choreographer. I had countless side-hustles, which ultimately led me to co-found an arts education company called Broadway Kids Auditions (BKA) in New York City. Running my business for six years sparked a new desire in me… fast forward to the MBA. I am excited to start my new chapter, post-MBA, with Zx Ventures, the innovation/new venture arm of beverage giant, ABInBev.

What advice do you have for prospective students? 

I believe that success during your MBA experience is dependent on making choices that work for you. Say yes to things. But also learn how to say no. You cannot do everything, you cannot be everything. Listen to your intuition when navigating your journey, and give 100% to the opportunities that you do accept. 

             …and ENJOY! It goes quickly!

Julianne Katz was a Full-Time MBA student in the Class of 2021. She was the President of the 2021 Women in Leadership Conference.