Neyida Michel (She/Her)
Senior, Wiess College
B.S. Computer Science, Minor in Environmental Studies
Whimsical, Chill, Thoughtful
What is something you’re proud of this year?
I was able to secure a full-time job offer, which felt like a huge milestone. I also won my first hackathon—an AI hackathon—where I learned a cool new tech stack and networked with a lot of brilliant people.
What advice would you give to your freshman self?
Think ahead, but not too much. You don’t need to rush to figure everything out right away. Comparison can create a lot of anxiety, so trust that things will come in time. Be intentional with your time, and don’t overstress yourself.
How have you utilized the SSI office this year? How has SSI been beneficial for you this year?
This year, SSI has been helpful in preparing me for post-grad life. I’ve been able to get advice on things I should start thinking about now, like budgeting, retirement planning, and career advancement. It’s been valuable having guidance on navigating the transition after graduation.
Any advice for other students?
Enjoy the full value of your Rice tuition. Study abroad, go to tutoring, loiter at Chaus, and immerse yourself in other people’s lives and experiences. Rice has so many resources, but it’s also full of genuinely interesting people with rich lives and perspectives. Some of my best friends came from taking the time to connect with others here, and I know they’ll stay in my life long after Rice.