Jonathan Mock

ometown: Sugar Land
Home State: Texas
Home Country: United States of America

Current City: Katy
Current State: Texas

Previous Institution and Degree: Texas A&M University (B.S. in Ocean Engineering, Minor in Business)

Pre-MBA Industry: Oil/Energy
Pre-MBA Company: Oceaneering International
Pre-MBA Title: Engineer

Desired Post-MBA Industry: Private Equity
Desired Post-MBA Function: Financial Analyst

What about the Rice MBA program has surprised you the most?
What has most surprised me is how fast our class grew into a community.  When you first experience the program during Immersion, 65 people in classroom can seem daunting and intimidating.  It was amazing to me how quickly we all became comfortable  with one another and speaking up and sharing our thoughts and questions in class.  Having meals and breaks together as well made for a great chance to socialize and really makes the class feel like a small community.

What has been your favorite moment of your Rice MBA experience so far?
My favorite moment so far in the program has been building friendships with some of the guys in our class.  The MBA program can be very demanding at times, and having a few close friends going through the same program provides a great support system.  We have also been able to organize a few golf outings following mid-terms, case analyses, and finals that provide a social setting to strengthen our friendships outside of the classroom.

What is your favorite thing about and/or favorite spot in Houston?
My favorite spot in Houston is a little restaurant down by Minute Maid Park called Hyunh.  The restaurant serves authentic Vietnamese food and allows customers to bring in their own wine, all in a small and comfortable atmosphere.  It is a favorite date spot for my wife and I when we want to head in town and enjoy a night out.

In a sentence, what is the one piece of advice you have for prospective students?
My best piece of advice is to stay up to date with course material; the lectures move fast and mid-terms and finals will go much smoother if you complete the practice problems and course readings as each week progresses.