Phuong Le

Home City: Ho Chi Minh City

Home State: Ho Chi Minh City

Home Country: Viet Nam

Undergraduate Institution: Central Washington University

Undergraduate Degree and Major (and minor, if applicable): IT Administrative Management

Pre-MBA Industry: Non-profit

Pre-MBA Company: TXRX Labs

Pre-MBA Title: IT - Business Ops

Desired industry post-MBA: Real Estate, Finance

Desired job function post-MBA: Real estate analyst, corporate finance

Student Organization Membership: Real Estate Association, Consulting Association, Finance Association, Rice Business Women's Organization, WILC, Other

Other Committee: Arts Club

Officer: WILC - Finance committee
Rice Business Women's Organization - Finance Chair
Rice Business Arts Club - First-year representative 

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA experience? The most surprising part of my Rice MBA experience has been how much it has changed my mindset beyond academics. As I learned more in class and became involved in club activities, I realized that choosing Rice was the right decision. It is not only about grades or career goals. The experience has helped me develop a broader perspective and become a more proactive person. Every interaction, whether in class or through events, has taught me something new, from technical knowledge to soft skills. Rice has created an environment where I feel more confident in communication and better prepared for my future career, both in knowledge and in mindset.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience so far? The career treks have been my favorite part of the MBA experience so far. I have participated in more than four treks organized by the CDO, including Austin, Exxon, Real Estate, Seattle, and Clean Tech. After each trek, I gained valuable insights into different industries and developed new skills. The company visits were the highlight, where hosts shared their experiences, career journeys, and the passion that drives their work. For instance, during the Seattle trek, I learned about Boeing’s different commercial aircraft types and had the opportunity to visit prototypes in person, as well as explore future customer experience innovations.

What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective student – one sentence? Be proactive and take advantage of every opportunity at Rice, because the more you engage, the more you will grow both personally and professionally.