Unconventional Students at Rice 2019: Pursuing educational accessibility for others

Maurice Frediere was able to attend Rice because of its generous financial aid package. “Rice actually turned out to be cheaper than my local state schools,” he said. “The fact that Rice strives for affordability shows a commitment to students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.”

An economics and political science major, Frediere developed his interests in social justice and urban development at Rice. “I saw how diversity could be a huge asset for a city when I came to Houston,” he said. “I’m so interested in education now, because I see it as the gateway to empowering different communities.”

Frediere is passionate about education accessibility. “Even though I’m not going to benefit from the Rice Investment, the renewed commitment to ensuring that Rice is a place where students from all backgrounds and communities can pursue opportunities is inspiring,” he said. “For too many students, higher education has been inaccessible, and Rice is at the forefront of combating that.”

From Fresno, California, Frediere was initially hesitant to attend school in Houston. “The city is more welcoming and enjoyable because of its diversity,” he said. “Houston is a great place to be a student and Rice is a great place to grow.”