Gisela Yan

Home Country: United States

Home State: TX

Undergraduate Institution: University of Houston

Undergraduate Degree and Major (and minor, if applicable): (Temple University) Bachelor of Music - Violin Performance and Music Education

Pre-MBA Industry: Performing Arts, Education, & Non-Profit

Pre-MBA Company: Houston Youth Symphony

Pre-MBA Title: Development Manager

Desired industry post-MBA: Financial Services

Desired job function post-MBA: Strategy

Degree Concentrations: Marketing, Strategic Management

Student Organization Membership: Consulting Association, The Adam Smith Society, Latin Business Student Association, Jones Student Association (JSA or JSAP), Strategy Association

Officer: Latin Business Association - first year representative
Rice Business Student Association - CDO Co-Chair

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA? I was genuinely surprised by how quickly I found “my people.” Coming from a non-traditional background, I expected to feel a bit out of place at first, but from day one, I felt seen, supported, and encouraged. The openness of the Rice community—classmates, faculty, and staff—made it easy to be myself and lean into learning without fear of judgment.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience? My favorite part has been the constant encouragement to grow through action—whether it’s case competitions, student leadership, or taking on projects I never imagined I’d be doing. At Rice, I’ve had the freedom to try new things and the support system to help me succeed (and cheer me on when I do!).

What do you love most about Houston? The food—especially Chinatown! I love the diversity of flavors you can find across the city, from hidden gems to hole-in-the-wall spots. You can never go wrong at a restaurant in Houston—every meal is a chance to explore something new.

What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective? Don’t be afraid to take the leap—you don’t need to have everything figured out yet!