Shazia Alam

About Shazia

Class: 2026

Region: North America 

City: Wichita, TX

Undergraduate Institution: GIK Institute of Engineering Sciences, Pakistan

Undergraduate Degree and Major: Mechanical Engineering

Pre-MBA Industry: Oil & Gas

Pre-MBA Company: MKEC

Pre-MBA Title: Project manager

Desired Industry Post-MBA: Energy

Desired Job Function Post-MBA: Chief operating officer, chief business development officer or chief strategy officer

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA experience? The most surprising part of my Rice MBA experience has been how engaging and connected the online program feels. I initially had concerns that a virtual format might limit interaction, especially since I’m someone who learns best through hands-on experiences and personal engagement. But those concerns quickly faded — the structure, collaboration and sense of community have made it feel anything but remote. Aside from being on a video call, everything else feels immersive and interactive, which has truly exceeded my expectations.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience so far? The highlight of my MBA journey so far has been diving into an entirely new area of expertise through hands-on learning. Initially, I was apprehensive about joining an online program, concerned that I might miss out on meaningful interaction and engagement — especially since I’m a people person who thrives in collaborative, immersive environments. But I quickly realized that aside from being on a video call, nothing about the experience feels remote. The level of connection, participation and practical learning has exceeded my expectations and made me feel fully integrated into the program.

What is the most important piece of advice you would give to someone considering the online MBA@Rice program? The most important advice I’d give to someone considering the online MBA@Rice program is to be ready to fully engage and immerse yourself. This isn’t a program you can casually fit in when you have spare time — it demands attention, discipline, participation and consistent hard work. I initially worried that being online might limit interaction, especially since I’m a people person who learns best through hands-on experiences. But I quickly realized it’s more like stepping into a 3D immersive environment — almost like a meta-game — where you're constantly interacting, collaborating and learning in real time. It’s a truly dynamic experience that feels anything but remote.