Matthew Weidert

Professionals - Evening
Current Industry/Job: O&G / Contracts Manager
From: Bay Area, CA

Favorite quote and why:

“Make someone feel inferior in a negotiating situation and he’ll be the toughest guy around the table.” – Lederer/Burdick

Negotiating is one of the best life skills you can learn. 

If you could choose anyone, who would you pick as your mentor and why?

Mark Cuban – I think he’s one of the savviest business leaders and entrepreneurs out there. He’s also genuine, speaks his mind, and is passionate about everything he’s involved with.

Best memory from your first year in the MBA program:

Cracking the code to the Ice Cream Game, and of course, PCF.

What story does your family always tell about you?

Broke my arm while skiing as a kid while on a trip with a friends. Skied the rest of the weekend with a makeshift sling - my parents thought I was joking until I got home and they took me to the ER.

What advice would you like to provide incoming students?

You won’t have time to do it all. Prioritize, be efficient with your use of time, and don’t forget about your family. 

Genuinely get to know and build relationships with the Jones School community.

Time flies, avoid procrastination.

Find ways to get involved outside of the classroom.

Rice’s campus is beautiful – park outside and enjoy the short walk to class.

Any additional unique facts you would like to share:

My dad is a history buff and discovered that we’re related to the founder of Fort Worth, Major Ripley Arnold. He died in a shoot-out with the Post surgeon after being accused of making some money on the side by selling government property (cavalry horses). My dad asks me nearly every time I talk to him if I’ve shared that story with anyone yet – there, now I’ve done it. Thanks for listening Class of 2018.