Ernest Hotze

Hometown: Houston
Home State: Texas
Home Country: United States of America
Previous Institution & Degree: University of Texas at Austin (B.S. in Mechanical Engineering)

Pre-MBA Industry: Energy - Oil and Gas
Pre-MBA Company: Nabors
Pre-MBA Title: Subject Matter Expert
Desired Post-MBA Industry: Energy -  Oil and Gas
Desired Post-MBA Function: Corporate Finance

Summer Internship Company: Stewart Title
Summer Internship Title: Financial Planning & Analytics Intern

Degree Concentration: Finance and Strategic Management
Student Organization Membership: Athletics Club, Consulting Club, Energy Club
Student Organization Leadership:
First-Year Officer, Energy Club

What about the Rice MBA program has surprised you the most?
I heard about how it was nice to be in a smaller class at Rice, but I've truly been surprised by how easy it was to get to know everyone in our class. Obviously, we all spend a lot of time on campus together and having such friendly people around has made school so much more fun than I expected.

What has been your favorite moment of your Rice MBA experience so far?
My favorite moment so far has probably been the end of immersion. It was so satisfying to have made it through the hectic first 2 weeks after being away from school for so long. The great thing was that we all went through it together, starting out as a group of mostly strangers. By the end, we're all back in the full swing of school and comfortable around each other on our way to becoming friends.

What is your favorite thing about and/or favorite spot in Houston?
Houston is my hometown so it has always meant a lot to me. But I always tell people that even though Houston lacks some of the appeal that other cities have, it is such a great place to live. If I had to choose one thing, it would easily be the food. No other city has the diversity of food quite like Houston, thanks to the mix of Texas and international cultures.

In a sentence, what is the one piece of advice you have for prospective students?
A lot of schools offer the same post MBA job opportunities, but each school differs in culture and people, and you should find the school that will benefit both your career goals as well as a place you can build valuable friendships.