Aditya Gupta
FTMBA '24
Hometown: Jaipur
Home State: Rajasthan
Home Country: India
Undergraduate Institution: Birla Institute of Technology & Science
Undergraduate Degree and Major (and minor, if applicable): Chemical Engineering
Pre-MBA Industry: Consulting
Pre-MBA Company: ZS Associates
Pre-MBA Title: Assistant Manager
Desired industry post-MBA: Consulting
Desired job function post-MBA: Consultant
Degree Concentrations:
- Finance
- Strategic Management
Student Organization Membership:
- Women in Leadership Conference
- Consulting Association
- Finance Association
- Golf Club
- Men as Allies
- Private Equity & Venture Capital Association
What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA experience?
One of the most surprising parts was during the international orientation. We met our classmates from almost 20 other countries and were tasked with working in a team to make a designer shawl using different cloth pieces. I was surprised at how many different ways and designs we could come up with, which symbolized our diversity, experiences & strengths. In the end, we did not just come up with great pieces but we exchanged different shawls, which still keeps that memory fresh.
What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience so far?
The best experience so far has been during the ILE workshops, especially the Leadership ILE. During the intense day-long workshop, we were exposed in taking difficult decisions which we would have made otherwise at this stage of our career. During the workshop, we realized the uncertainty of the world we live in, and how each decision can pivot our life goals. This workshop was overall one the best leadership and team work exercise we have done.
What do you love most about Houston?
Firstly, I found Houston as the best place to try out different cuisines. It goes without saying that Houston is the most diverse city in the US, hence the food. You will run out of the number of days in the year, but keep trying different restaurants each day.
Second, coming from a country situated in the tropical zone, I enjoy weather in Houston. Given a longer summer, days in Houston are enjoyable due to 300+ days of sunshine.
Lastly, Houston has a unique mix of southern and urban city culture. The lifestyle, people and architecture of the city tell more about the city than a few online articles.
What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective student – one sentence?
Keep networking with current students, alumni, and professors to learn more about the program and your fit with the school.