In this insightful guide, Mel Lawrence, an admission counselor at Rice University and a first-generation college graduate, breaks down the often overwhelming reality of higher education tuition. Drawing on both personal experience and professional expertise, Mel offers practical strategies for navigating financial aid, calculating costs, and confidently advocating for yourself.

Growing up in a small village, I (Pu, Martel ‘29) vividly remember a dozen kids gathering around a tiny box television just to watch a soccer match. Our village didn’t have much, but for 90 minutes, none of that mattered. The FIFA World Cup is where dreams come true, communities unite and the entire planet speaks a single language: soccer. Looking back, it’s hard to believe that I went from watching the tournament on that tiny screen to playing a behind-the-scenes role in bringing these massive sporting events to billions of people across the globe. Here’s a look at what it’s really like to bring the game to life on the international stage!

Working on a major global event is a common goal for anyone interested in the sports industry, but at Rice, these opportunities can often start earlier than expected. I’m Jacob L., Hanszen '27, and over the past year, I worked with the Houston Host City Committee to prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Here’s a look at my experience and the lessons I learned while helping to lay the groundwork for the tournament.

When choosing a college major, many students feel pressured to pick a path and stick to it. But what happens when your passions span from mechanical engineering to environmental history? Sanjana, McMurtry ‘29, shares how she refused to box herself in, finding ways to connect the dots between engineering, history and environmental science.

From Christmas in September to the legendary BakerShake festival, Baker College has its own unique brand of spirited chaos. Doc, Baker ‘29, shares the traditions and community that define Rice University’s very first Residential College.

Choosing how and when to apply to college is a major strategic decision. As a Rice graduate myself, I remember that deadline stress well! To give applicants more flexibility, the university offers two Early Decision pathways: Early Decision I (ED I) and Early Decision II (ED II). While both options are binding, they operate on different timelines to best support your journey. I'm sharing everything you need to know to choose the right track for your goals! 

For many Rice students, education extends deep into the heart of Houston. Derek, Hanszen ‘29, reflects on how Civic Immersion week shaped his Rice journey before classes even began, ultimately transforming him from a first-year participant into a student Site Leader.

Swapping barbed wire fences for the busy streets of Houston wasn't just a change of scenery for Abby, McMurtry ‘28 — it was a complete reinvention. If you're standing on the edge of a massive life change, her advice is simple: do it scared.

My name is Olivia, Chao ‘27. I am currently a junior at Brown College, but in the fall, I’ll transfer to the new residential college, Chao College, where I’ll serve as Chief Justice (CJ). I'm studying health science, biosciences, French and medical humanities. This is what a week in my life looks like!

Moving away from Houston before high school sparked a love for exploring new places in Leyana, McMurtry ‘29. Now back in H-Town, she’s spent her freshman year rediscovering the city. From concert venues to local parks, here’s a look at her favorite spots so far!

After years of avoiding athletics, Helena, Brown ‘28, found a judgment-free, positive community at Brown College. Discover her transformation from self-proclaimed orchestra kid to bike captain!

Moving from Hawai’i to Houston, Tamara, Martel ‘29, expected a world of difference. What she didn’t expect, however, was the wealth of opportunities to make a difference through local volunteering and the Alternative Spring Break Program — all thanks to the community she found beyond the hedges.