Shamina Momin

Home City: Sugar Land, TX

Undergraduate Institution: University of California: Berkeley

Undergraduate Degree and Major: Economics and Biology

Pre-MBA Industry: Healthcare Technology

Pre-MBA Company: athenahealth

Pre-MBA Title: Senior Associate - Strategy and Partnerships

Desired Industry Post-MBA: Healthcare Technology

Desired Job Function Post-MBA: Manager - Strategy and Partnerships

Student Organization Membership: Rice Business Board Fellows, Healthcare Association, Strategy Association

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA experience? The most surprising part of my MBA has been the commitment. I knew going into the program that I would have to sacrifice my time with family and friends, but I did not realize how intense this program would be, especially as a working professional. When I first started my MBA, I also started a new role a month prior, so it was difficult because I was learning a new job and figuring out how to balance it with my academics. However, with the support of my family, friends, and my peers, I learned how to balance my personal and professional life and prioritize the things that truly matter.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience so far? My favorite thing about Rice is how this is a community. Going to Berkeley for my undergrad, I faced a lot of competition among my peers. However, it is the complete opposite at Rice. I have found my cohort to be a community, as everyone is always willing to help. It never feels like a competition in my classes; rather, all my peers are collaborative and willing to help. For example, often in our WhatsApp group, there are encouraging messages before exams, shared job opportunities and scholarships, and planning for lots of social events. There is a lot of camaraderie among my cohort, which I truly appreciate. In addition, I am glad that I am part of a great team and have been able to depend on them during the times I am busy in my work/personal life. We have learned to acknowledge each other's strengths and weaknesses and work as a collaborative team.

What do you love most about Houston? One thing I love the most about Houston is how expansive and diverse it is. I grew up in a small city called Friendswood. As an Indian Muslim, I often stood out in school as one of the few people of color. Although I had a great childhood and made a lot of friends over time, I always wondered what it would be like to be among a more diverse group of people. This was one of the reasons why I ended up going out of state for my undergrad. However, after moving back to Houston, I realized how diverse it actually is. From the people to the food to the places, Houston is a melting pot of different cultures, traditions, and practices. I enjoy being able to go to places such as Rice, where I can meet and form connections with people with various and interesting backgrounds.

What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective student? Great opportunities do not come to you unless you are ready to receive them, so stay curious, embrace challenges, and continuously strive to learn and grow.