Q: What attracted you to Rice University's Master of Global Affairs program?
A: Back in 2019, I was at a point in my life where I wanted more than just a degree—I wanted an experience that would truly shape how I see the world. The MGA program at Rice stood out immediately because of its small cohort and collaborative environment, where real connections and personalized mentorship thrive. I was also inspired by the program’s global perspective and multidisciplinary approach, designed to prepare students for complex international challenges. Another key factor was career development. I wasn’t just thinking about the next two years; I was thinking about the next twenty. The MGA program offered the tools, resources, and connections to help me grow into a professional ready to apply knowledge to solve real-world problems.
Q: What was your career like prior to the MGA program?
A: Before starting the MGA program, I worked at the Consulate General of Brazil in Houston, in the Commercial Department. It was a role I truly enjoyed because it allowed me to support Brazilian companies and promote trade opportunities. I felt proud of the work I was doing, but over time, I realized I wanted to grow beyond my current responsibilities. I wanted to deepen my understanding of global affairs and develop the skills to contribute in a more strategic way—not just for the organization I worked for, but for the broader impact of international collaboration. That desire to keep learning and offer more value is what led me to pursue the MGA program.
Q: Where are you now in your work and what do you do?
A: Today, I work in the Oil & Gas industry in a role that truly reflects the global perspective I gained through the MGA program. My position is hybrid—I manage HR responsibilities, including expatriate processes, and I also serve as the point of contact for planning and organizing our C-level executives’ participation in major international events. In addition, I handle ceremonial and protocol matters for our Houston office.
Since joining the company, I’ve had the privilege of working on events in Houston, New York, China, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Brazil. Every time I step into these projects, I see how the knowledge I gained at Rice—understanding cultural nuances, navigating international protocols, and thinking strategically about global engagement—comes to life. The MGA program didn’t just give me theory; it gave me confidence and tools to operate in a truly international environment and make every interaction count.
Q: What was the highlight/most memorable moment of your experience in the MGA program?
A: One of the most memorable parts of the MGA program was the discussions—because, honestly, I didn’t always agree with our faculty. And that was the beauty of it. The conversations were deep, challenging, and touched every aspect of knowledge. There were moments when I walked into class thinking I had the “right” perspective, only to leave realizing mine was just one lens among many. That was the turning point for me—learning to see the world through different lenses and appreciating that diversity of thought is what makes global affairs so fascinating.
It wasn’t about winning an argument; it was about understanding why others see things differently. That’s when I truly understood the value of cultural differences and diversity. At the end of the day, the world isn’t black and white—it’s a mosaic of perspectives. And if you can embrace that, you’re not just learning; you’re growing. Plus, it makes for much better coffee-break debates!
Q: What was your favorite class in the MGA program?
A: Definitely all of them… except statistics. Let’s just say statistics and I agreed to disagree! Honestly, it’s hard to pick just one because every class had its own charm and taught me something valuable. But if I had to choose, I’d say International Security was very interesting. The discussions were intense, thought-provoking, and sometimes felt like a mix between a strategy game and a reality check. It wasn’t just about theories—it was about understanding how decisions ripple across borders and affect millions of lives. That class made me realize that global security isn’t just headlines; it’s a complex web of politics, economics, and human behavior.
Q: What would you say to someone considering Rice's Master of Global Affairs?
A: When I started the MGA program, I thought I was going to find answers—clear, definitive solutions to global challenges. But what I discovered was far more valuable: the power of asking the right questions.
The program didn’t hand me a checklist; it opened doors to new ways of thinking. It taught me to see what others don’t, to challenge my own assumptions, and to embrace complexity instead of fearing it. I remember walking into class convinced I had the ‘right’ perspective, only to realize mine was just one voice in a chorus of ideas. That moment changed me. As Socrates said, "The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing."
That’s the beauty of this experience—it’s not about comfort, it’s about transformation. You learn that the world isn’t black and white; it’s a mosaic of perspectives, cultures, and possibilities. And if you’re ready for that kind of growth, leaving your job for a year isn’t a risk—it’s an investment in becoming someone who can navigate complexity with confidence.
So, ask yourself: do you want to stay where you are, or do you want to see the world—and yourself—through a completely new lens?