Michael Sides

Home Country: United States

Home State: TX

Undergraduate Institution: Texas A&M University

Undergraduate Degree and Major (and minor, if applicable): BS Mechanical Engineering

Pre-MBA Industry: Consulting

Pre-MBA Company: Deloitte

Pre-MBA Title: Consultant

Desired industry post-MBA: Energy

Desired job function post-MBA: Finance / Commercial

Summer Internship Company: ExxonMobil

Summer Internship Position: Commercial Upstream

Degree Concentrations: Energy, Finance

Student Organization Membership: Beer Club, CleanTech Association, Energy Association, Finance Association, Jones Public Policy Roundtable, Rice Energy Finance Summit

Officer: Beer Club President, REFS Sponsorship Chair, Business Communication Fellow

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA? One of the most surprising parts of my MBA experience has been how much I would learn from my classmates. I had been told by mentors that a huge part of the MBA learning experience comes from the people in your classes and the discussions that happen there and outside of class but I didn't realize how large of an impact they really meant. From getting to learn more about global cultures through friendships with international students, to getting to know more about what it means to be an American from my classmates from NYC, South Carolina, California and all over the country. In my core team we had a variety of work backgrounds and getting to learn from everyone's strengths was a real benefit.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience? My favorite part of my MBA experience has been the people I have met in the program. My best memories have been the small moments between the big milestones: debating cases in the hallways, grabbing lunch between classes and the camaraderie built during late-night study sessions. Everyone in this program is incredibly driven and passionate. Being surrounded by people who challenge and support you has been the most rewarding part of the journey so far.

What do you love most about Houston? My favorite part of being in Houston has been rediscovering my hometown. Moving back close to family has been incredible, but exploring all of the new restaurants that have popped up over the last decade has been a surprising bonus. I love introducing classmates to my old favorites and letting them guide me to the new spots they’ve discovered. It truly is the best food scene in the country!

What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective? Start picturing your future career right now, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to reflect and create the life you want for yourself and your family. Take advantage of that!