Leah Susan Dy (LC Dy), Rice Business MBA Class of 2026
Age: 28
Hometown: Orange County, CA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Bates College, Economics Major
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Customer Success Manager, Software Solutions at Morningstar Inc., 6 years
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
Over the past several years, at Morningstar, I became driven to understand change management, communication and organizational structure. After several restructurings within the organization, at various levels, I saw both successes and failures. At times, our customer success team struggled, and with that I became more passionate about generating team success. I believe team and ultimately organizational success stems from clear and consistent communication both vertically and laterally within organizations. I hope to pursue a career long term in leading team success within organizations as they change and evolve with the industry.
Why did you choose Rice Business? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
Ultimately, Rice Business provides me a learning environment that I wanted to experience. Unique from other programs, Rice’s culture and mantra “You Belong Here” is more than a slogan. It’s really a place that is rooted in its community – whether you are a domestic or international student.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2026?
As a non-binary student at Rice, I look forward to creating more inclusive spaces on campus during my program.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
I’m a dog mom. Luna is a little old lady in the form of a greyhound/Dutch shepherd mix. She was rescued in 2020 during Covid-19. She currently lives a pampered life in SoCal with my parents and will be joining me at Rice next year!
Post-MBA career interests:
In the immediate term, I am most interested in pursuing a career in marketing or corporate finance within the healthcare or tech industry.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
–What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Investigate organizations that can help finance your MBA. For me, I found The Consortium to align with my personal and professional goals. If you aren’t familiar, I would highly recommend looking into how The Consortium is uplifting minority voices within the context of business schools.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Before you start applying, take time to reflect on what makes you feel fulfilled. What do you want to gain from the experience? This reflection will illuminate to you as to which program is best suited for you and your needs.
In my case, I visited several schools before deciding this, which ultimately made my decision-making process more complicated. By the time I had time to choose what was most important to me, I had heard everyone’s opinions on it, as well.
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would have skipped the standardized testing. To get through it, be sure to prep as much as you can and take some time off from work just before the exam, if possible. Ask your company if they can subsidize the cost of prep materials or the exam fee. While standardized tests are optional, depending on the program, every piece of the puzzle helps you differentiate yourself in the application process and can help you stand out.
What is your initial impression of the Rice Business students/culture/community?
Rice Business students are incredibly welcoming and friendly. It reminds me of when you pull through a drive-thru to find out the person ahead of you paid for you. The culture is “pay it forward.”
What is one thing you have learned about Rice Business that has surprised you?
Even in the most community-based environment, the nature of business school is competitive. Be prepared to feel the sense of competition – whether against yourself or the curve.
What is one thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I am most anxious about adjusting to a new place after a big move during a particularly busy semester. The friends I’ve made at Launch so far have provided a lot of reassurance – but moving is not fun!
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am excited to work with my core team as they are all wonderful to work with and incredibly kind.
