Abraar Motiwala

Hometown: Sugar Land, TX

Undergraduate Institution: University of Houston-Clear Lake

Undergraduate Degree and Major: Bachelor’s in Finance

Previous Graduate School (if applicable): N/A

Pre-MBA Industry: Accounting and Finance

Pre-MBA Company: Carriage Services

Pre-MBA Title: Accountant

Current Industry: Healthcare

Current Company: Humana

Current Title: MBA Summer Intern

Desired Industry Post-MBA: Consulting

Desired Job Function Post-MBA: Consulting

What Rice MBA clubs/organizations have you been involved in, and what positions have you held?

• Rice Business Board Fellows
• Athletics Club
• The Adam Smith Society
• Consulting Association, vice president of marketing and communication

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA experience? The most surprising part has been how supportive and close-knit the community is. I expected business school to be competitive and intense, but at Rice, students truly help each other. Whether it is sharing notes, prepping for interviews together or just checking in on one another, there is a real sense of teamwork and care. It makes a big difference, especially for someone like me who is juggling work, family and school.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience so far? My favorite thing has been the people. I have met classmates from all over the world, each with unique backgrounds and stories. It has opened my mind and helped me grow in ways I did not expect. The friendships I have built and the conversations I have had inside and outside the classroom have been the best part of the experience.

What is one piece of advice you would share with prospective professional MBA students? Be honest about your story and your goals, because Rice values who you are just as much as what you have done.