Matthew Strom

Hometown: Houston, TX

Undergraduate School and Major: Texas A&M University, B.S. Petroleum Engineering

Employer and Job Titles: Southwestern Energy, Senior Reservoir Engineer, West Virginia Division

What led you to pursue an MBA? I saw my future career in the E&P industry going into a business development role or area with a financial background. Regardless of what that next step looked like, I was certain I needed an MBA to reach additional milestones in my career. 

Why did you choose Rice for your professional MBA? I chose Rice for three main reasons: the unique Rice campus experience with on-site classes, the excellence in quality of education, and relationships with the faculty and staff that are kept for life. 

What has been a highlight of the program? The highlight of the program has been the full spectrum of education I have received. It was human nature to have some expectation of what I would get out of the program before setting foot on campus, and the two-year professional MBA program far exceeded any expectations I have had for the better. 

What has surprised you about the journey so far? Networking among my classmates/friends has far exceeded my expectations. This is a function of the culture at Rice University and the complete MBA experience I received.

What advice do you have for prospective students? I would encourage anyone considering this program to have an open mind attitude towards everything and everyone. Some of my greatest learning came from my classmates and team members with experiences different from mine. This program opens your mind to welcome new ideas and creativity, so embrace it.