Early Mentorship
When I first arrived at Rice, I never imagined how many opportunities my major would provide. I joined the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) as a freshman, where career-focused events such as mock interviews and fishbowl-style interviews allowed me to observe and learn in real time. Forming relationships with the AIChE president and upperclassmen and alumni early on gave me a firsthand look at the oil and gas industry, helping me visualize a future in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering (ChBE).
Broadening Horizons
During freshman year, I also attended the AIChE National Conference in Orlando. Meeting students and professionals from across the United States allowed me to compare my experience at Rice with others. Additionally, I learned about companies and job opportunities outside of Houston, broadening my perspective on what’s possible after graduation. Amazingly, the trip was fully funded by the ChBE Department — a level of support that was incredible to experience as a freshman!
My sophomore year, a professor nominated me for an award that funded my attendance at the conference for a second time. This recognition made me feel supported and really encouraged me to stay involved with the department.
Professional Connections
Alumni support has been instrumental to my journey. Rice alumni at ConocoPhillips guided me through the internship process and helped me secure a position. Our alumni remain closely connected to the department, and work to support current students in both their academic and professional goals.
Finding Community
Beyond academic studies, I also found a home in the Rice community. While I didn’t have many close friends initially, that changed as I progressed through my coursework. Today, my classmates are some of my closest friends!
I was also able to help restart Chem-E-Car competitions at Rice. Collaborating with fellow engineering students to apply classroom knowledge to a hands-on project was challenging and rewarding. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities and friendships that I never expected, but that ChBE provided!
-Aoife, Wiess ‘27 (Published on 1/20/26)
Keep Exploring
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.
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