Cyrus Mistry

Hometown: St. Louis

Home state: Missouri

Home country: United States

Undergraduate institution: University of Missouri

Undergraduate degree and major (and minor, if applicable): BS in mechanical engineering (with minors in business and mathematics)

Pre-MBA industry: Automotive engineering

Degree specializations (choose up to two):

• Marketing and strategy

Student organization membership:

• The Consortium: Academic and Wellness Co-Liaison
• Marketing Association: Treasurer
• Technology Association
• Global Food Experience Club
• Beer Club

Why Rice Business?

On my admit weekend visits, one thing that stood out to me was how much Rice staff and students wanted to get to know you as an individual and help you make the best decision for yourself. Our alumni network is smaller than other schools, but I always had better luck connecting with Rice alums prior to starting my MBA than with other schools. It always felt like Rice fostered close-knit connections for everyone involved in the MBA program. The diversity of Houston, warm weather, and amazing food in the area certainly didn’t hurt.

What does The Consortium mean to you?

The Consortium is an amazing opportunity for under-recognized minorities and allies to come together and make a difference as future business leaders. It is a chance to accelerate and advocate for minorities in top business school programs and in management positions across global companies.

For me, The Consortium OP represented the first opportunity to really be an MBA student. It’s where you first start networking with companies, and more importantly it’s where you form crucial student connections early on. It gave me a chance to create close friendships with my Rice cohort before I ever even step foot on campus.

What does a Consortium liaison do and what are you looking forward to most in this role?

As an academic and wellness co-Liaison, I am primarily responsible for keeping a finger on the pulse with our students. This means understanding how they feel throughout the year, providing mentorship, and assisting with academic or tutoring needs. We also help to organize Consortium events such as lunches and dinners throughout the year and make our presence known through social media.

What advice do you have for prospective MBA students?

A few things:

1. Enjoy it. This sounds cliché, but time is going to move at warp speed in the program. Have fun and maximize your opportunities here.
2. It’s ok to have a plan and not stick to it. MBA programs are a great opportunity for personal growth. It’s a place where you get to learn about new opportunities and learn about yourself. Don’t be afraid to deviate from your original plans!
3. Take time in the summer before you start to relax and enjoy yourself. You’re going to be busy in the program (especially the first year). If you have a vacation you really wanted to take or friends and family you’ve been meaning to spend time with, do it now.