Stephanie Neilson
OMBA '21
Home State: California
What have been your primary job functions in your career?
- Real Estate
What industries have you worked in?
- Consulting
- Entrepreneurship
- Real Estate
- Ag Lending and Private Wealth Banking
What is your current job title?
I'm currently in the research phase of either starting my own business or acquiring an existing company. I've been attending various meetings sponsored by the SBA and SCORE to learn more about resources available to me in the Los Angeles area. These resources will give me an opportunity to understand the market, provide mentorship, and potential funding to launch and grow my future business.
Why did you select Rice Business for your MBA?
I selected Rice Business because it's a top-tier university with strong academic offerings, a diverse student body, and distinguished faculty renowned for their contributions in the business community.
How has Rice helped you with your career?
Rice has given me the confidence, tools, and network that's essential and necessary to become a competent and successful future entrepreneur. The entrepreneurial coursework I completed during my MBA program has been pivotal in my journey to becoming a business owner. I refer back to projects and even consult with my MBA cohorts as I make decisions about business opportunities to pursue.
What is the most important advice you’d like to share with prospective and current students?
The most important advice I can give to future and prospective students is to get to know your cohorts. They will prove to be valuable resources during your program and after graduation. When the going gets tough, you can always lean on your cohorts for support and guidance.
What have you valued most in the Rice black student and / or alumni network?
I value the opportunities the alumni network has given me to connect, nurture, and grow my own network through happy hours, lunches, and numerous other events. I look forward to attending my first alumni networking opportunity in Los Angeles this March!