Grace Kim

What is your current role?

I am an operations program manager at a healthcare solutions company that partners with physicians and healthcare systems to provide value-based care.

What prompted your decision to pursue an MBA, and why did you choose Rice Business?

I needed an MBA for the executive leadership roles I want to pursue in my healthcare career. Rice Business was my top choice for its academic rigor, stellar reputation and combination of online and in-person curriculum.

Could you share a pivotal moment or experience during your MBA journey that significantly made an impact?

Meeting fellow students at the first-year Intensive Learning Experience (ILE) was phenomenal. It was gratifying to eat, laugh, and share stories with my peers outside of the Zoom classroom setting. I was also introduced to the half of my cohort that I had never encountered before (since we had class discussions at different times). Developing the bond with my cohort doubly enriched my MBA experience, my network and my friendships.

What were the most valuable skills or knowledge you gained at Rice Business, and how have they contributed to your professional growth?

The Data Analysis course was instrumental in helping me hone the Excel and data visualization skills I use daily in my current role. Strategic Business Communication forced me to confront the flaws in my public speaking, and helped me be more concise, confident and direct when speaking to C-suite executives.

How did the faculty and resources at Rice Business support your academic and career development?

I would not be in my current role if not for the coaching and encouragement of the staff at the Career Development Office, especially Rayna Anderson-Crier, the associate director of career education and advising. Rayna’s career advising experience, knowledge about cross-industry hiring practices, and resumé wizardry helped me attain this position. My advice to any incoming student: book an appointment with the CDO early in your program.

What role has the Rice Business network and community played in your MBA experience, and what advice do you have for leveraging these connections?

The Rice Business community has been like a second family to me. I always feel comfortable reaching out to my Rice network to ask for advice, a coffee chat, or even just a listening ear. To build your own bonds, I recommend that students adopt the classic “Yes, and…” improv technique. It shows that you’re up for anything and that you will always have your fellow improviser’s back. Find yourself responding “Yes, and…” to Rice community events, requests from your peers, and anything in between; show that you have your colleagues’ backs, and they will have yours in turn.

What advice would you give to prospective students considering an MBA at Rice Business?

First, make sure your employer, family, friends, spouse and children — all the important people in your life — are aware of the program’s time commitment and how that may change your current schedule. The time commitment does not simply include classes and homework, but also in-person and virtual networking events, optional exam review sessions, travel time, etc. Second, be prepared to disappoint your loved ones, your peers, and even yourself. This will be a time of immense learning, and thus, of immense struggle. Do not be afraid to make some tough choices and some mistakes; doing so is inevitable.

How has obtaining a Rice MBA impacted your short-term and long-term career goals?

In the short term, Rice Business has given me the resume-building and interviewing tools I needed to attain and excel in my current role. In the long-term, I have gained more visibility in my organization due to Rice’s prestige and have gained additional leadership titles and responsibilities because of it. I have seen a marked increase in interest for me to consider open leadership opportunities, both internally and externally.

What special programs, initiatives or opportunities at Rice Business should prospective students be aware of?

I highly encourage students to take part in Rice campus groups specific to their interests. Even though I was rarely on campus, I took on a leadership role in the 180 Degrees Consulting group and led our project meetings virtually. This was a great way for me to explore my interest in consulting and help solve a company’s real-life dilemma. Rice has over 280 student organizations, and many are more than happy to welcome remote learning students into the group. It’s a great way to befriend your fellow Rice Owls and engage with the community!