For Rice Business MBAs exploring careers in finance, few experiences rival the annual Rice Business Week on Wall Street (WOWS) trek. From October 13-15, 2025, a group of students traveled to New York City to meet alumni, tour some of the world’s leading financial institutions, and gain an up-close look at how Rice Business graduates are making an impact in global capital markets.
Over three packed days, the group visited Nasdaq, RBC, Goldman Sachs, PJT Partners, Guggenheim Partners, Lazard, Morgan Stanley, and Moelis, learning directly from Rice alumni and industry professionals about the fast-paced, competitive world of investment banking and finance.
Learning at the Center of Global Finance
The trek opened at Nasdaq, where students toured the exchange, witnessed the iconic closing bell, and connected with alumni working at the intersection of markets and technology. Standing in Times Square for a group photo, students felt the pulse of the financial world surrounding them.
“Week on Wall Street was an incredible and rewarding experience,” shared Alex Werner (MBA Class of 2027). “Our group had the opportunity to visit Nasdaq, meet with several leading financial institutions, and gain an insider’s perspective on the fast-paced world of investment banking in New York City. The knowledge and relationships I developed during the trek will be invaluable as I continue my recruitment journey and future career in finance.”
Conversations with Alumni and Industry Leaders
At RBC, Goldman Sachs, and PJT Partners, students participated in presentations, panels, and coffee chats that brought classroom learning to life. Alumni shared candid insights about their own paths into finance, from early internships to executive leadership.
The discussions continued at Guggenheim Partners, where small-group conversations allowed students to ask questions about deal flow, client management, and navigating a banking career. Later that evening, alumni and students gathered for a networking reception at Stout Penn Station, featuring remarks from James Weston, Senior Associate Dean for Degree Programs and Harmon Whittington Professor of Finance.
“We’re up here for Week on Wall Street to give our students exposure to the investment banking industry,” Weston said. “They’re meeting with leading banks in New York, gaining field experience, and learning directly from Rice alumni who’ve built tremendously successful careers at the center of global capital markets.”
Building Knowledge and Connections
The final day included visits to Lazard, Morgan Stanley, and Moelis, where students gained insight into the evolving nature of advisory work, capital raising, and client strategy. At each stop, alumni offered advice on navigating the early stages of a finance career and building credibility in one of the world’s most competitive industries.
“The Week on Wall Street expedition offers invaluable exposure to the finance industry for prospective investment bankers,” said Samuel Schultz (MBA Class of 2027). “It gave my class the chance to gain firsthand insights from experienced bankers while strengthening the bonds within our cohort. I’d highly recommend it to any Rice student interested in financial services.”
From hosting us for company visits, engaging students in coffee chats, and networking at the happy hour, more than twenty-five alumni helped make this visit meaningful.
Looking Ahead
By the end of the trip, students returned to Houston with more than business cards and notes. They carried new perspectives, meaningful connections, and a stronger sense of purpose as they prepare to enter the finance industry.
“It was inspiring to hear directly from professionals about their experiences and career paths in banking,” Werner reflected. “The trip strengthened bonds with classmates and alumni that I’m confident will continue to grow as our careers progress.”
As Rice Business continues to expand opportunities for experiential learning, Week on Wall Street remains a cornerstone experience for students pursuing investment banking careers. Through alumni engagement and hands-on exploration, the trek connects today’s MBAs with the insights, networks, and inspiration that power tomorrow’s leaders in finance.
If you’re interested in recruiting top MBA talent for your organization, hosting a trek, or otherwise engaging with the Career Development Office, please contact Tyler L. Hough, Director of Employer Engagement.
