SEAL creates Veterans In Business Association at Rice

Rice VIBA meets with James Baker. (J. Battista, Center)

SEAL, James Battista discusses his process for selecting an MBA program and how he made an impact by helping create Rice’s Veterans in Business Association.

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James M. Battista, 2013 Rice MBA Graduate

Military Career in Review:

I graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2003 and was selected to attend Basic Underwater Demolition/ SEAL training in Coronado, California.  I spent the remainder of my eight years of active duty with SEAL Team EIGHT, deploying mostly to the Middle East and South America.

Choosing the Rice and Houston, Texas:

I chose Rice MBA program, because I wanted to live and work in Houston, specifically in oil and gas.  Houston and the Rice MBA program provided an unparalleled connection to the energy industry and a network of future employers.  I also liked the intimate learning environment, since I am used to working in small units.  The close-knit culture provides students with a fantastic team-oriented environment where you get to know your classmates well.

The creation of the Veterans in Business Association (VIBA):

VIBA, to me, is a way to continue serving both fellow veterans and Rice University.  My goal was for VIBA to help veterans make a smooth transition from military life to the Rice MBA program and Houston.  We strive to create a “unit” atmosphere by looking out for each other and our families, and in sharing our knowledge and networks.

We want the Jones School to be THE most friendly MBA program in the United States.  We also want to create a strong network amongst veterans at Rice, alumni and leaders in the Houston business community, that veterans and their families can lean on to help each other and find great jobs.

Rice VIBA meets with James Baker. (J. Battista, Center)

VIBA and the Military Scholars program:

Since VIBA’s inception, a new Military Scholarship program has been founded.  This program is the result of a group of generous community members who wanted to acknowledge, honor, and support those who proudly serve our country.  The scholarship will cover tuition, fees, and expected living expenses for selected veteran or active duty applicants who wish to pursue their educational dream of obtaining the Rice MBA degree

Veterans in Leadership Series hosted by VIBA