Vanilla Alumanah

Home City: Missouri City, TX

Undergraduate Institution: University of Texas at Austin

Undergraduate Degree and Major: Communication Studies

Pre-MBA Industry: Retail - CPG

Pre-MBA Company: Target

Pre-MBA Title: Sr. Business Partner

Desired Industry Post-MBA: Retail - CPG

Desired Job Function Post-MBA: Strategy

Student Organization Membership: Black Business Student Association

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA experience? The most surprising aspect of my Rice MBA experience has been the incredible flexibility of the hybrid program, which far exceeded my expectations. Its design has allowed me to maintain a full-time job without putting my life on hold, showcasing an adaptability that’s truly remarkable. Notably, having a baby early in the first semester could have been a major obstacle, but the program's structure enabled me to continue my studies without missing a beat. This level of flexibility, allowing for significant personal and professional life events while pursuing an MBA, has been the standout feature of my Rice experience.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience so far? My favorite aspect of the MBA experience has been the opportunity to meet classmates from across the country in person on a monthly basis, each bringing diverse perspectives from various industries. These gatherings have not only enriched our learning experience but have also fostered a unique sense of community and camaraderie among us. Additionally, working closely with a small team on a variety of cases and projects throughout the curriculum has been incredibly rewarding. This team-based approach has enhanced our collaborative skills and provided a real-world context to the challenges we study, making the learning process both engaging and practical.

What do you love most about Houston? Having lived in Austin, Miami, and Minneapolis, I find Houston unparalleled in its diversity, culinary breadth, and the richness of experiences it provides. The city stands out with its eclectic food scene that showcases global cuisines reflecting its cultural mosaic, unmatched by any other city I've called home. Houston's welcoming atmosphere and diverse neighborhoods offer a unique place for everyone, embracing individuals at different life stages and with varied interests. This sense of community and the endless opportunities for exploration and discovery make Houston truly an exceptional place to be.

What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective student? My advice to a prospective student is that the opportunities within this program are endless; it's entirely up to you to tap into them and shape your own unique journey.