Nina Maelin Briones

Home Country: Philippines

Home State: Calabarzon

Undergraduate Institution: University of the Philippines

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

Pre-MBA Industry: Energy, Oil & Gas

Pre-MBA Company: Shell

Pre-MBA Title: Diesel Pricer, Refinery Economist, Process Engineer

Desired industry post-MBA: Energy

Desired job function post-MBA: Operations, Marketing (Pricing)

Degree Concentrations: Energy, Operations & Supply Chain Management

Student Organization Membership: Rice Business Board Fellows, CleanTech Association, Energy Association, Jones Gives Back, Rice Business Women's Organization

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA? Honestly, the most surprising part of my Rice MBA experience has been how quickly time has flown by—I can’t believe the first year is almost over. The pace of the program is fast, but what’s surprised me most is how much I’ve been able to get involved beyond the classroom. Whether through Rice Business clubs, broader Rice University activities, or industry events, there’s been no shortage of opportunities to explore what I’m passionate about while still staying on top of academics. What’s made that possible is the strong support system—advisors, faculty, coaches, and peers—who are always willing to help and point you toward the right resources. It’s a demanding experience, but one where you never feel like you’re going through it alone.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience? One of my favorite parts of the MBA experience so far has been the access to company visits and major industry events like Rice Energy Finance Summit and CERAWeek. These experiences have offered a front-row seat to the energy sector’s evolution, allowing me to learn directly from industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers. What makes it even more valuable is how this exposure extends into the classroom—through faculty who bring deep industry experience and through resource speakers who regularly visit campus to share insights on everything from energy transition to emerging technologies. There’s so much to learn, and being in an environment where academic learning is constantly reinforced by real-world expertise has made my experience both dynamic and inspiring.

What do you love most about Houston? What I love most about Houston is its incredible diversity—of people, cultures, ideas, and industries. It’s a city where you can find world-class food from every corner of the globe, meet people with fascinating stories from all walks of life, and feel a strong sense of community despite the city’s size. As the energy capital of the world, Houston also offers unparalleled access to industry leaders, innovation, and career opportunities, especially for someone with an interest in energy, sustainability, and global business. It’s a place where you can grow both personally and professionally, while being part of a vibrant, welcoming, and forward-looking city.

What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective? Don’t let perceived obstacles or doubts hold you back—if you’re truly committed to growing personally and professionally through an MBA, take the leap and apply.