Yash Kukreja

Home Country: India

Home State: Madhya Pradesh

Undergraduate Institution: De Montfort University

Undergraduate Degree and Major (and minor, if applicable): Bachelor in Management, Business Studies

Pre-MBA Industry: Technology

Pre-MBA Company: Pintel.AI / Trend International

Pre-MBA Title: GTM & Product Consultant

Desired industry post-MBA: Technology

Desired job function post-MBA: Strategy

Degree Concentrations: Marketing, Strategic Management

Student Organization Membership: Beer Club, Consulting Association, The Adam Smith Society, Golf Club

Other Committee: Table Tennis Club

Officer: International Chair, Rice Business Student Association

What has been the most surprising part of your Rice MBA? One of the biggest surprises in my Rice MBA experience has been how supportive and helpful the alumni and my classmates are. People are always willing to make introductions, give feedback, and collaborate on ideas.

I have also been amazed by the resources available, like the Lilie Lab and the Rice Alliance, which have helped me improve my entrepreneurial skills. But the biggest surprise is how fast paced everything is. Juggling networking, classes, and side projects while shaping my entrepreneurial goals has been challenging but also exciting, pushing me to grow much faster than I expected.

What has been your favorite thing about your MBA experience? My favorite part of the MBA experience so far has been the people. The alumni and my classmates are incredibly supportive, always willing to share advice, make introductions, and collaborate.

Other than the people, I am really enjoying the GFE experience. It has been a great opportunity for hands-on learning, allowing me to apply what I have learned. I am also excited about the upcoming trip to Panama, which will add another layer of experience and learning.

What do you love most about Houston? What I love most about Houston is the diversity and warmth, both in the weather and the people. The weather is nice since I am not a big fan of the cold. I also love the food scene here; you can find all types of cuisine worldwide. And most importantly, the people are friendly and welcoming, which makes the city feel like home.

What is one piece of advice you would share with a prospective? Take full advantage of the Rice network's people, resources, and opportunities, get involved, and be open to new experiences because the MBA journey moves faster than you expect.