Tatania Gosien

Home Country: United States

Home State: TX

Undergraduate Institution: St. Joseph's College, New York

Undergraduate Degree and Major (and minor, if applicable): Social Sciences

Pre-MBA Industry: Education

Pre-MBA Company: School of Science & Technology

Pre-MBA Title: Assistant Principal/Dean of Academics

Desired industry post-MBA: Finance

Desired job function post-MBA: Director of Finance/Operations

Degree Concentrations: Finance, Operations & Supply Chain Management

Student Organization Membership: Black Business Student Association, Consulting Association, The Consortium, Finance Association, Forte

Officer: *Incoming Co-President of The Consortium 
(Served as 1st year representative)
*Strategic Business Communication Lead Fellow ('25-'26)

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA? What surprised me most about my Rice MBA experience was the level of discipline and time management required to balance academics, recruiting, and extracurricular involvement. Coming in, I expected a challenge, but the pace and intensity pushed me to become even more organized and intentional with my time. While it was an adjustment, it ultimately helped me grow both personally and professionally. I’ve developed habits that not only helped me succeed during the program, but will serve me well throughout my career.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience? My favorite thing about the MBA experience so far has been the incredible support system built into the Rice community, especially the open-door culture of the APSE, CDO, and Admissions team. Whether I’ve needed career guidance, academic support, or just someone to talk through a tough decision with, they’ve consistently shown up with empathy, insight, and encouragement. It’s rare to find a program where you feel truly seen and supported at every stage, and that kind of accessibility has made all the difference in my journey.

What do you love most about Houston? As a New Yorker with Caribbean roots, I wasn’t sure what to expect when I moved to Houston, but I quickly fell in love with the city’s vibrant energy, incredible diversity, and genuine warmth. It’s a different pace from NYC, but in the best way. What I love most about Houston is how it offers big-city culture with a down-to-earth welcoming vibe that makes it feel like home.

The food scene alone won me over. From food trucks to fine dining, Houston is a paradise for foodies. I’ve found flavors that remind me of home and I’ve also discovered new favorites from Vietnamese, Nigerian, and Tex-Mex cuisines. The cultural mix here is real, and it shows up on every plate.

As someone who also loves live music and events, I’ve been blown away by the concert venues, outdoor festivals, and pop-up cultural celebrations that happen year-round. Whether it’s catching a show at House of Blues or dancing to a DJ set at a night market, there’s always something happening.
Houston has truly surprised me. It’s a city full of life, flavor, and opportunity, and I feel lucky to call it my new home!

What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective? Be intentional, but flexible; some of the best opportunities come from the unexpected!