Sourabh Bhakta

Home City: Houston

Home State: TX

Home Country: United States

Undergraduate Institution: University of Houston

Undergraduate Degree and Major (and minor, if applicable): BBA in Finance and Supply Chain Management

Pre-MBA Industry: Energy

Pre-MBA Company: Sempra Infrastructure

Pre-MBA Title: Sr. Project Controls Analyst

Desired industry post-MBA: Energy

Desired job function post-MBA: Director

Student Organization Membership: Consulting Association

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA experience? One of the most surprising aspects of the Rice MBA experience has been the sense of community and the connections I have formed so quickly. While you anticipate rigorous academics, impressive faculty, and career support and growth, what truly catches you off guard is the genuine collaboration and support within the environment. Everyone is willing to help if you reach out. The faculty and professors are easily accessible and engaged. They bring real-life scenarios and tie them to your day-to-day.

And then there’s Houston itself. The city breathes energy, diversity, and opportunities for networking and innovation. These qualities add a dynamic layer to the program that many don’t fully appreciate until you’re immersed in it.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience so far? One of the most rewarding aspects of the MBA experience so far has been the unexpected depth of relationships formed within my core team and the cohort. I entered the program expecting to build a network, but instead, I intend to form lifelong friendships. The shared intensity of the program, the late-night group projects, and even the casual coffee chats all contributed to bonds that extend far beyond the professional connections.

Being surrounded by driven, curious, and growth-oriented individuals is truly powerful. You gain as much knowledge from your peers as you do from the curriculum. The diverse backgrounds, industries, cultures, and perspectives in the classroom enrich the conversations significantly.

What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective student – one sentence? My advice to prospective students is to be yourself, take advantage of the available resources at Rice, and recognize that your classmates will be your greatest asset.