On The Rice Track: Net-Worth Networking

If you hate networking, come to the MBA … said no one ever. Networking is the heartbeat of the MBA journey — you will engage in it every single day, so prepare to dive in with purpose.

I vividly remember the early days of the Rice MBA program when Stephanie, a poised German professional from the Career Development Office, offered us some invaluable advice. She told us, “Never comment on someone’s appearance during a networking session. It is not polite, and it can go completely wrong.”

She then handed out a small guide with tips on small talk and conversation starters, setting the stage for the journey ahead.

SOME BAD ADVICE

You will quickly learn that networking is the secret sauce of success. As you ease into it, you will start finding yourself saying, “I am trying to achieve this goal.” More often than not, the person you are speaking to will respond with, “Oh, I know someone who can help you with that.” And just like that, the magic begins.

Through networking, you will meet people who will support, inspire, and guide you in countless ways. However, that does not mean you should accept every piece of advice you receive. Like when someone once said to me “Just ask for a job right away.” Talk about uncomfortable! It is always better to ask for that person’s advice, they might refer you to an even better opportunity. And then there is “Fake it ‘til you make it.” A lot of folks will say that. But if you ask me, I’d rather be prepared. Being confident that you know what you’re doing will give you a more solid base than faking.

Take what resonates with you, test it, and refine your approach as you go. Networking is about finding your rhythm and what works best for you.

FORGET THE FORMALITY

Another networking strategy is to carve out time in your calendar to meet with classmates. What starts as a conversation to achieve a specific goal may very well end in a lifelong friendship. You never know how a connection will shape your future. After all, the phrase ‘the net worth of networking’ is all about how the contacts you make at business school will impact your future career success.

My best advice is to let go of the notion that networking must always be formal and professional. Have you noticed how genuine, informal conversations often create stronger connections? Shift your mindset: the real objective is to build a connection, not just collect another contact in your phone. If most people are there simply to secure referrals while you focus on cultivating a meaningful relationship, who do you think will gain more from networking?

People will remember the authentic you, not the person who recited the company’s mission statement flawlessly. It would even be weird if you came in reciting the assets and liabilities of the company just in the first conversation. Don’t misunderstand me — it is essential to research and be prepared. However, that is not what will set you apart. Your uniqueness, your essence, and your personal brand are what make the difference. Take the time to sit down and define who you are and what you represent.

FINDING COMMON INTERESTS

Do not forget to seek out mentorship from alumni. They have been in your shoes and are often eager to share their wisdom. Their insights can be a treasure trove of advice and guidance for navigating your journey. Plus, I bet that they will be willing to give back what others already gave them. At Rice, we have an incredibly strong alumni network. In my two years here, not a single alumnus I’ve reached out to has ignored or declined my message — every one of them has been responsive. And I’d imagine it’s a similar experience at other universities as well.

That was true when I met Daniel, a Rice Alum. While we were having a nice coffee chat where he guided me in dos and don’ts for recruiting, suddenly something popped into the conversation and we discovered both of us were SCUBA divers. We not only spoke about it for more than the scheduled coffee chat time, but we even found that we have the same favorite diving spot! Daniel later became a sounding board through the recruiting process for my summer internship.

Finally, remember to maintain and nurture your network even after the MBA. It is a support system that can carry you to remarkable places throughout your life. Check in periodically, celebrate others’ successes, and stay present in their lives. Networking is not a one-time effort; it is a lifelong investment in relationships that matter.

---

Mercedes is an international full-time MBA student at Rice University’s Jones Graduate School of Business with a passion for marketing, and entrepreneurship. Raised in an entrepreneurial family, she gained early insights into the world of business, negotiation, and problem-solving, leading her early in her career to take the role as Managing Director at Shoe Mix Shoestores, in Guadalajara, Mexico.

She expanded her professional experience with an internship at the Houston Energy + Climate Startup Week 2024, diving into hands-on projects that furthered her expertise in transformative marketing strategies. Additionally, her volunteer work at a young age, as a teacher in Nicaragua, allowed her to connect with underserved communities, building empathy and resilience that influence her approach to both life and business.

Known for her kind heart, she connects easily with teams, helping them work together efficiently. When she is not immersed in her work, she is often near the ocean—SCUBA diving, hula-dancing, or enjoying the beach, where the wonders of the underwater world inspire her adventurous spirit.

DON’T MISS:

ON THE RICE TRACK: HOW I OVERCAME IMPOSTER SYNDROME

ON THE RICE TRACK: SEEING THE WORLD THROUGH GLOBAL FIELD EXPERIENCE