Manoj Somasundaram

Hometown: Nairobi
Home State: Nairobi
Home Country: Kenya

Current City: Houston
Current State: Texas

Previous Institution and Degree: Purdue University (B.S. in Chemical Engineering (Honors))

Pre-MBA Industry: Oil and Gas
Pre-MBA Company: Exterran
Pre-MBA Title: Product Line Manager

Desired Post-MBA Industry: Finance
Desired Post-MBA Function: Investment Banking

Student Organization Membership: The Adam Smith Society - Rice MBA Chapter, Consulting Club, Energy Club, Finance Club, Rice Energy Finance Summit (REFS)

What about the Rice MBA program has surprised you the most?
Network. I had a feeling the Rice network was strong but having been through the recruiting process for  a summer internship in investment banking, I have truly realized the strength of the Rice Network and the reputation of JGSB, the best in Texas.

What has been your favorite moment of your Rice MBA experience so far?
My favorite moment (and I wish this wasn't it) was the entire Rice MBA program coming together during Hurricane Harvey. This event truly bought MBA students together and emphasized the caliber and nature of students in this program. We were out there together helping demolish/clean-up and this brought together teamwork, communication and leadership skills.

What is your favorite thing about and/or favorite spot in Houston?
My favorite thing about Houston is the culture and the residents here. I have lived in many cities but Houston is where I want to make my future. People are laid back but in a good way. They are still determined and competitive but most folks are just good natured and it shows when the community comes together for one another like during Hurricane Harvey

In a sentence, what is the one piece of advice you have for prospective students?
This is in all likelihood your last degree, so please gather as much information as possible from every resource out there and make a well informed decision