Cuong Ha

Home City: Houston, TX

Undergraduate Institution: University of Houston

Undergraduate Degree and Major: Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering

Pre-MBA Industry: Chemical Manufacturing

Pre-MBA Company: Dow Chemical

Pre-MBA Title: Senior Maintenance Engineer

Desired Industry Post-MBA: Financial Services/Oil and Gas

Desired Job Function Post-MBA: Strategy/Business Development

Student Organization Membership: CleanTech Association, Energy Association, Strategy Association, Veterans in Business Association

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA experience? I was surprised by the diversity of cultures, backgrounds, and professional experiences that everyone brings to the program. It's truly amazing to meet and learn from this vast body of talent that the Rice Business School has put together.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience so far? Before joining the program, I often viewed myself as quite introverted. However, the highlight of my experience in the business program has been the invaluable learning I've gained from interacting with my classmates and cohort. Engaging in discussions, collaborating on group projects, and listening to presentations within our class groups have opened my eyes to diverse perspectives and approaches. Learning from individuals from various industries and backgrounds has been a fascinating journey of growth for me. It has allowed me to identify areas for self-improvement and discover ways to enhance my own skills and thinking.

What do you love most about Houston? I'm a foodie, and my wife and I love to go out and eat at the many awesome restaurants available in Houston and the surrounding area. Houston is also so diverse that no matter where you're from in the U.S. or even the world, you can find that feeling of home within the city.

What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective student? I would say this experience is what you make of it, so really put in the time and effort to do things outside of your comfort zone. It's so rewarding to try and learn new things while having an incredible support system that enables you to do it without any judgement. I feel an immense sense of support from everyone at the business school, ranging from my cohort and professors to the Career Support staff. Don't be afraid to try new thing, you may like it more than you think.