Rice Externship programWhen did you start volunteering for Rice? How long have you been a volunteer?
I started volunteering years ago when Rice was asking for help with student externs. We took a break during Covid, but now I enjoy offering students insights into their careers by letting them know more about my path.
Why do you volunteer for Rice?
I volunteer for Rice because there was a lot I didn't know when I graduated from Rice. I aced my classes, but the real world had some unexpected challenges that were difficult to navigate. Particularly difficult for me was not having parents that worked anywhere near the corporate world. It was a culture shock going into my first job out of Rice, and my positions afterwards also had their own challenges. I hope that the time I spend volunteering at Rice can help students learn from my past and make the choices that will best set them up for their own success.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering at Rice?
Rice students are a really special group, and I love interacting with them and having great conversations. Rice students have asked deep questions when I'm with them, and it always seems like the time is well spent for all involved.
What's a fun Rice fact about you?
Most of the restaurants I visited while at Rice, and even some of the architecture of the campus, has changed since I've graduated. However, I'll never forget all the fun we had with water balloons while I was a student.
What would you say to your fellow alumni/parents/friends to encourage them to volunteer for Rice?
Rice students are super smart and very quick to learn. Even then, there's a lot that they don't know, and I think programs like the Rice Externship program are key ways that students can fill in the gaps. The classroom lessons are great, but the life lessons from alumni, parents and Rice friends can be just as impactful.