Colin O'Neill

Hometown: West Palm Beach
Home State: Florida
Home Country: United States of America
Previous Institution & Degree: Georgia Institute of Technology (Mechanical Engineering (Computer Science))

Pre-MBA Industry: Aviation
Pre-MBA Company: NASA
Pre-MBA Title: Satellite Systems Engineer
Desired Post-MBA Industry: Consulting/Energy
Desired Post-MBA Function: Consultant/Business Analyst

Summer Internship Company: Memorial Hermann
Summer Internship Title: Strategic Planning Intern

Student Organization Membership: Beer Club, Consulting Club, Energy Club, Jones Student Association (JSA), Net Impact, Technology Club
Student Organization Leadership:
Beer Club, President
Student Government Leadership Summit, Vice President of Operations

What about the Rice MBA program has surprised you the most?
The willingness of my classmates to go out of their way to help people during Hurricane Harvey. It was really an amazing coming together of our class since many people had just moved to Houston.

What has been your favorite moment of your Rice MBA experience so far?
Immersion was by far my favorite moment at Rice. It really convinced me I had made the right decision and being able to meet all of my classmates and learn about the awesome backgrounds they had was amazing. It was a great transitional time for me to get back into the school mindset but also make great connections that have only grown during my first year at Rice.

What is your favorite thing about and/or favorite spot in Houston?
The food in Houston is by far my favorite. We have great variety as well as places that are in unique locations (ever had bison burgers under a highway overpass?)! My personal favorite place to eat is called Snooze and AM Eatery because it has really great brunch options!

In a sentence, what is the one piece of advice you have for prospective students?
Pick the school that you know you will enjoy being a part of. Business school will have its tough points, so being able to enjoy yourself and becoming a part of the diverse community is key to fully leveraging the once in a life time opportunity that business school offers!