Moises Mendoza

Hometown: Katy, TX

Undergraduate Institution: University of Virginia

Undergraduate Degree and Major: Bachelor’s in education, youth and social innovation

Previous Graduate School (if applicable): Master of Education in Higher Education Administration & Student Affairs Practice, University of Virginia

Pre-MBA Industry: Education & Research

Pre-MBA Company: Veris Insights

Pre-MBA Title: Growth Development Analyst

Current Industry: Research & Consulting

Current Company: Veris Insights

Current Title: Senior Associate Partnership Lead

Desired Industry Post-MBA: Consulting

Desired Job Function Post-MBA: Strategy Consulting

What Rice MBA clubs/organizations have you been involved in, and what positions have you held?

• Rice Business Board Fellows
• Consulting Association
• Rice Business Student Association for Professionals, community service chair

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA experience? One of the most surprising parts of my Rice MBA experience has been the number of opportunities available to students outside of the classroom, especially as a part of the Professional MBA program. I initially thought that balancing work, school and personal commitments would limit my engagement with extracurriculars. While this time management and balancing act has continued to be a challenge, I was amazed to see that Rice Business offers a wealth of resources specifically designed for working professionals like me, allowing me to grow both academically and professionally without having to completely sacrifice other priorities.

Time and time again, what stands out the most to me, and what I hope to contribute to moving forward is the culture of giving back at Rice. People are genuinely eager to help, and it not only makes this experience easier to manage, but it also makes it much more exciting. This culture of support has created a strong sense of community at Rice, where everyone feels invested in each other’s success. Thanks to guidance and the resources provided by everyone in the Rice community, I was even able to secure a summer internship, something that seemed extremely daunting at the start of my recruiting process. I’m grateful for these surprises that continue to shape my journey.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience so far? I’ve appreciated the opportunity to learn and grow through the humbling realization of how much I still don’t know — as well as the incredible people who have made every step of this journey both enjoyable and transformative. The level of generosity from all the people at Rice has also inspired me to give back and pay it forward to future students, just as others have done for me. I’ve gained so much more than technical knowledge — I’ve found confidence, purpose and a group of people who genuinely care. This journey has shown me that growth doesn’t happen in isolation, it happens through community, curiosity, and the courage to embrace the unknown. That, more than anything, has been the most rewarding part of my MBA experience so far.

What is one piece of advice you would share with prospective professional MBA students? There is a lot you do know, and there is even more that you don’t. Don’t ever be afraid to speak up and contribute the great knowledge you have, and immerse yourself in moments where it’s best to sit back, listen and reflect on the knowledge of others.