Saumya Jha

Home country: United States

Home state: Texas

Undergraduate institution: Banasthali University

Undergraduate degree and major (and minor, if applicable): B.Tech (Electronics and Instrumentation Engineering)

Pre-MBA industry: IT consulting

Pre-MBA company: Tata Consultancy Services

Pre-MBA title: IT consultant

Desired industry post-MBA: Technology

Desired job function post-MBA: Product management

Degree specializations: Marketing, strategic management

Student organization membership: Consulting Association, Forte, Rice Business Women's Organization, WILC

Officer: Contested for CDO chair (RBSA); result yet to be announced.

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA? Starting my MBA journey as an international student was like stepping into a new world, far removed from the familiarity of home. The thought of navigating this new chapter without my usual support network was intimidating. Yet, the moment I stepped into Rice Business, any sense of unease vanished, replaced by an overwhelming feeling of belonging. It was as if I had found my place where I was at peace.

It seemed like Rice Business was exactly where I was supposed to be. From Professor Balaji Koka, who taught us the intricacies of crafting successful business strategies, to Professor Patricia, who patiently revisited topics with a warm smile to ensure our understanding was clear, the classroom experience was nothing short of remarkable. Their personal engagement was unexpected; most professors know me by name and were keen to offer constructive feedback, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement in my contributions. This personalized academic guidance has been the highlight of my experience, making every day enriching and fulfilling.
Beyond the academics, it’s the sense of community at Rice Business that’s made this experience so rewarding. It’s like everyone here, from the professors to the other students, is genuinely rooting for your success. They care, and they’re invested in helping you grow, which was both surprising and incredibly heartwarming.

If I had to make the choice all over again, about where to go for my MBA, I’d pick Rice Business in a heartbeat. And it’s not just because of the academic excellence but because of the sense of belonging and community I’ve found here. This journey has been about so much more than just getting an MBA; it’s been about finding a place where I feel I truly belong.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience? Looking back on my MBA journey at Rice Business, trying to choose my favorite part feels nearly impossible because of all the incredible experiences. Yet, if I had to pick, it's the teamwork and sense of community that really stand out. It's amazing how working together on projects and in-class discussions has not only made the tough challenges manageable but also added fresh perspectives.

The diversity within our group has been a real game-changer. My core team included people from the USA and China, and having friends from different countries has brought fresh perspectives into not just classroom topics but life in general. It’s like every time we tackled a group project or dove into a complex problem, I got to see things from a whole new angle thanks to their insights. And it wasn't just about the academics; it's the friendships I've built along the way that mean the most. These aren't just classmates, but genuine connections I will foster for a lifetime.

There have been countless times when these friends and the second years at Rice have been more than just a support system; they've been like anchors, keeping me grounded and supported through every high and low. This feeling of being part of something bigger, of knowing we're all in this together, has made my MBA experience incredibly special.

What I've come to love most about Rice Business is this sense of collaboration and community. It's shown me that business isn't all about competing against each other but about working together, understanding one another, and helping each other rise. That's a powerful lesson for any future leader, and it’s something I’ll carry with me forever.

These moments of connection and the shared experiences at Rice Business are treasures I'll hold onto for life. The blend of cultures, the late-night study sessions, the laughs we shared, and even the challenges we faced together have all contributed to a journey that's been so much more than just earning an MBA. It's been about growing, learning to see the world through others' eyes, and building friendships that will last a lifetime.

So, when I think about what I love most about my time here, it's the people I've met and the sense of belonging we've shared. This journey has made me more mature, open, and ready to take on the world, knowing that the bonds we've formed here will always be there, no matter where we end up.

What do you love most about Houston? Living in Rice Village, right in the heart of Houston, has turned out to be one of the best parts of my MBA journey. This city, with its endless warmth and diversity, surprised me in the best possible ways, quickly making me feel like I belong here. As someone who's always been a big-time foodie, the chance to dive into Houston's incredible variety of cuisines has been like living in a dream. Every weekend offers a new adventure, a new taste, and a new story.

The kindness of people in Houston is something you have to experience to believe. There's this genuine belongingness and a sense of community that makes even the simplest interactions feel special. This warmth from people has wrapped around me since I arrived, making every part of this journey not just bearable but truly enjoyable.

And then there’s my love for art. Being a fine arts student, discovering the Museum of Fine Arts here was like finding a treasure trove. It’s become my sanctuary, a place where I can lose myself in the beauty of creativity and history. Each visit is a reminder of why I love art so much, and it’s incredible to have such a world-class museum right on my doorstep.

Saturday trips to HEB with friends have become a ritual I cherish. Hopping on the Rice shuttle, laughing and planning our meals for the week—it's these moments that highlight the joys of student life, far beyond the classrooms and assignments. It’s about the people you meet, the friendships you form, and the memories you create together.

Throughout my time in Houston, I’ve grown in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Taking care of bills, managing deadlines, and just navigating day-to-day life on my own have taught me a lot about independence and self-reliance. I feel like I’ve matured, stepping into a version of myself that’s ready to take on whatever comes next with confidence.

Reflecting on my MBA journey and my life in Houston, I realize how much this city has given me. From the diverse food scene that has delighted my inner foodie, to the art that has fueled my passion, and the community that has embraced me, every experience has been a step towards becoming more mature and self-dependent. Houston, with all its quirks and charms, hasn’t just been a backdrop to my studies; it’s been an integral part of my growth, offering lessons and experiences that I’ll carry with me long after my MBA is over.

What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective student? It may seem difficult at the start, but it is all worth it!