Jessica (Krystine) Taylor
Full-Time MBA, Class of 2019
Hometown: Houston
Home State: Texas
Home Country: United States of America
Previous Institution & Degree: Rice University (Sociology)
Pre-MBA Industry: Education
Pre-MBA Company: Abu Dhabi Education Council
Pre-MBA Title: Educator
Desired Post-MBA Industry: Entrepreneurship/Non Profit
Desired Post-MBA Function: Entrepreneur/Manager
Summer Internship Company: Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Summer Internship Title: Advanced Product Planning & Strategy MBA Intern
Degree Concentration: Entrepreneurship and Marketing
Student Organization Membership: Black Business Student Association (BSSA), Entrepreneurship Club, Net Impact, Rice Business Board Fellows
Student Organization Leadership:
Net Impact, President
Black Business Student Association, Vice President
What about the Rice MBA program has surprised you the most?
The vast, almost overwhelming number of resources and opportunities available to us at any given time has been surprising. I was also surprised by how familial the program feels, and how quickly I formed friendships that I know will be lifelong.
What has been your favorite moment of your Rice MBA experience so far?
Spending four days in California on an entrepreneurship trek with classmates and students from other schools, visiting start-ups, hearing from inspirational CEOs, discussing our entrepreneurial aspirations, and bonding over food and drinks.
What is your favorite thing about and/or favorite spot in Houston?
That is a tough question. I am going to say Houston Restaurant Weeks because you get to eat at awesome restaurants for a fraction of their normal cost and it is for a great cause, and the Houston Rodeo is a close second.
In a sentence, what is the one piece of advice you have for prospective students?
While in school, take advantage of the opportunity to explore fields you had not considered, be open and kind, don't be afraid to ask for help, and get ready to work hard and have a lot of fun.