Shrey Patel
Business Major '26
Concentration in Finance & Sport Management
Minor in Entrepreneurship
Home country: United States
Home state: Iowa
Residential College: Jones College
Student Involvement: Founder and international executive president, Rice DECA; Lilie: LaunchPad, RXF, NRLC and other sessions; teaching assistant for New Enterprises; VP of finance, Rice Cricket Club; treasurer, Rice South Asian Society; social media manager, Rice YUVA; co-leader, Rice Entrepreneurship Club; co-founder, Rice SAAVETX EF
Previous Internships: Tax intern, PwC; relationship manager intern, U.S. Bank; finance intern, NRG Park; accounting intern, Principal Financial Group; finance and accounting intern, Professional Sports Partners; financial planning and analysis intern, Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield
What has been the most surprising part of your Rice Business experience?
The connection I have with my professors has been the most surprising part to me. Most professors at Rice Business know you by your first name and are always willing to take the time to help you through class work and career-related goals.
What has been your favorite thing about your Rice Business experience?
The community and real world experience is my favorite part about Rice Business. No matter the time of day, everyone is willing to help and work together. It’s more of a family culture that fosters better relationships and learning experiences. Also, the content we learn in classes actually apply to the real world. I’ve used many of my class learnings through my internships and to also further my knowledge of current news.
What do you love most about Houston?
I love the diversity within the Houston community. There are people from all over the world, from different backgrounds, with different experiences. Cultural food is also in abundance, and I always enjoy trying new things around the city and state.
What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective student?
Take action on every opportunity that presents itself, because the opportunity might not stick around for long. At Rice, I’ve seen this play out in the case of clubs, internships and leadership opportunities.