John Howard

“Ambitious, resilient, and endlessly curious with a natural ability to inspire and achieve excellence”

Hometown: Victoria, Texas

Fun Fact About Yourself: I am a 3rd-generation Aggie, and I knew that I would attend Texas A&M University since I was a child.

Undergraduate School and Major: Texas A&M University – B.S. in Recreation, Parks, & Tourism Sciences (RPTS), Hospitality Management

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Encore Search Partners – Recruiter

What has been the biggest accomplishment in your career so far?

Transitioning from hospitality management to a high-performance recruiting role while earning my MBA in finance significantly expanded my professional scope and impact.

When you think of your school, what is the first word that comes to mind? Why?

Tradition. Texas A&M is built on a foundation of values and customs that have been passed down for generations, creating a sense of identity and pride that extends far beyond graduation. These traditions foster a deep connection among students, faculty, and alumni, and they serve as a constant reminder to uphold the highest standards of integrity, respect, and excellence in everything we do.

What are one or two key aspects of this program that led you to choose the program, and why were they so important to you?

I was drawn to Texas A&M’s MBA program for its unmatched Aggie network and strong reputation for producing principled leaders. The program’s rigorous finance curriculum aligned perfectly with my career goals, giving me the technical expertise to complement my leadership and relationship-building skills. Together, these aspects offered both the connections and the capabilities to accelerate my impact in business.

What course, club, activity, or experience excites you the most and why?

The experience I’m most excited about is my second Aggie Ring Day. I received my first ring as an undergraduate, but this time I’ll be adding a diamond to celebrate completing my master’s degree. It is not just a tradition; it is a powerful symbol of hard work, perseverance, and the lifelong connection to the Aggie family.

What is one thing you have recently read, watched, or listened to that you would highly recommend to other prospective MBAs? Why?

I highly recommend Make Your Bed by Admiral William McRaven. The book distills powerful life lessons from his Navy SEAL training, showing how small, disciplined actions can lead to big achievements. For prospective MBAs, it is a reminder that success often begins with mastering the basics, building resilience, and approaching every challenge with focus and determination.

What are two things you have learned that have surprised you so far – one academic and one non-academic?

Academically, I was struck by how strategic decisions in areas such as supply chain can directly shape a company’s competitiveness, profitability, and long-term resilience.

Non-academically, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the value of time management and prioritization, balancing the demands of a rigorous MBA program with professional responsibilities while maintaining high performance in both.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into your MBA program?

Take the time to clearly articulate how your personal and professional experiences align with the program’s strengths. Demonstrate not only your academic readiness, but also how you will contribute to the learning environment and the success of your peers. Be authentic, be specific, and approach the application as an opportunity to show both your potential and your commitment.

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