Frequently Asked Questions
For Students
Where will I work this summer?
During the application process, students indicate the types of placements that are of greatest interest. Leadership Rice is responsible for matching students with organizations and mentors and cannot guarantee a specific placement at the time of application, but we do our best to place students in contexts that will be interesting, challenging, and relevant to career goals. Offers of admission are for placement with a specific organization, so students are not required to commit to the program before they know where they would be working.
How much is the stipend?
Stipends vary according to cost of living. Houston: $4000, New York City: $6000, Washington DC: $6000.
How can I improve my chances of admission to the program?
Approach the application process and interview (if granted) as if you were applying directly to an external organization, consider consulting with Career Services to polish application materials and interview techniques, and make a compelling case for how you will benefit the program and benefit from it.
Can I apply as a freshman?
Ambitious freshmen are invited to apply, but should be aware that admissions preference is given to similarly qualified sophomores and juniors. Admission to the program is competitive and based on leadership ambition and potential, as demonstrated in part by academic excellence and communication skills.
When and where is the application due?
Applications must be received by January 23, 2009 at 5 PM. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The Leadership Rice office is located in the Center for Civic Engagement on the 2nd floor of the RMC (above the Grand Hall). Our mailing address is Leadership Rice - MS 200, 6100 Main St., Rice University, Houston TX 77005.
Does Leadership Rice prepare me to succeed in my mentorship?
Yes! All SME participants convene on campus for three days of intensive learning between spring final exams and commencement. During these three days, you will interact with Leadership Rice staff and get to know other students in the SME program, including a small cohort of students you will interact with regularly throughout the summer. You will also become familiar with essential leadership skills and keys to success in professional contexts.
Who can I contact for more information or with questions?
Contact Brad Smith at 713-348-4785 or email leading@rice.edu.
For Mentors
How are students compensated?
SME program participants are awarded a stipend to cover living expenses, and mentoring organizations are asked to pay the full stipend. In some circumstances we are able to work with non-profit organizations to find alternate sources of funding if this arrangement presents a hardship for the organization. We hope that partner organizations view participation in the SME program not just as a source of high quality labor, but also an investment in promising students and a relationship with a university that is committed to equipping future leaders. Current stipend amounts (Houston - $4,000; NYC and DC - $6,000) are competitive—higher than those paid by many non-profit organizations and lower than those paid by many for-profit companies—and enable students from all financial backgrounds to develop their leadership skills in a variety of professional contexts.
Can I choose the student I mentor?
Leadership Rice is responsible for matching students with organizations based on interests, skills, and needs. The SME selection process is competitive, and only the most promising future leaders are admitted to the program. SME participants are among the most outstanding students at Rice University, and many former participants have gone on to great accomplishment. We welcome your input in terms of the type of student you would like to work with, and are confident that you will be impressed with the student selected for your organization.
Does the mentor also have to be the student's direct supervisor?
A mentor need not be the student's direct supervisor, but should be familiar enough with the student's work to provide meaningful feedback and help ensure that the student is tasked with challenging projects.
What makes a good mentor?
Effective mentors make a deliberate effort to help their students reach their full potential. To this end, mentors often allow their students to shadow them, introduce students to other industry leaders, and set aside time to discuss leadership concepts, career options, or industry-specific keys to success. Every mentoring experience is different, and the best mentors are sensitive to their students' specific needs.
Who can I contact for more information or with questions?
Contact Brad Smith at 713-348-4785 or email leading@rice.edu.
