It has been a pleasure to spend time with a group of smart, strategic, Rice-loving volunteers thinking seriously about the role alumni play in continuing Rice’s longstanding tradition of excellence. I never cease to be amazed by the intelligence of Rice alumni and their passionate dedication to the betterment of the University. Nowhere is this more apparent than at a meeting of the Alumni Board.

“Only at Rice” would a Political Science major with no journalism background (and no plans to be a journalist in future) be allowed to write and ultimately serve as a Section Editor for the Thresher. During my time as a student at Rice, I was invited, over and over, to pursue activities for which I had no previous training and at which I might fail. All that was expected of me was intellectual curiosity and a can-do attitude. Only after I graduated did I realize that these invitations are rare and precious and that they are uniquely Rice.

Get to know your professors. They are true thought leaders, and they are committed to your success, both during and after your time at Rice. Some of the most important and rewarding relationships I have cultivated in life are the long-term friendships I have with former professors.

I remember how daunting it was to draft my first resume. When you’re a student, it’s tough to know what employers are looking for. Through the Sallyportal, I’ve helped several students edit and revise their resumes. It has been a lot of fun to connect with current students and to help them think about life after Rice.