Q: How long have you worked at Rice?
A: I’ve been at Rice since June 2023.
Q: What is your favorite part about working for the university?
A: I’d say constantly being surrounded by brilliant people, which includes both students and employees. I am always learning something new from people.
Q: What do you want people to know about living in Houston?
A: It’s unpredictable. From the traffic to the weather, you may think you know what is coming, but you really don’t.
The food scene is just as diverse as its population. Try it out. It might surprise you.
Q: What do you do in your downtime?
A: Whatever I am feeling at the moment. I’ve been pushing myself to try new things with activities, hobbies, etc.
Q: What’s your favorite spot on campus to show someone?
A: Duncan Hall is my favorite. I love its interior; it’s very unique.
Q: What’s the most exciting time of year for you as it relates to Rice?
A: Commencement. Our department supports the ceremonies, and witnessing the excitement of the students and their loved ones before they go on to accomplish ore great things is a wonderful feeling.
Q: What’s the one thing that makes Rice special to you?
A: I’d say the people.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: Meeting our campus partners and learning more about what they do and being able to collaborate with them.
Q: What are your most memorable accomplishments?
A: Becoming fluent in English during the first six months after I moved to the United States is by far my most memorable accomplishment. It wasn’t easy, especially since I was in Alabama. The Southern accent was challenging, making it a true test of my auditory learning skills.
Q: What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
A: Marksmanship, cooking, grilling. I also love traveling. I have a list of all the countries I want to visit, but it is getting ridiculously long, so I am having to cut some off.
Q: What advice would you give to new employees?
A: Take your time to learn about Rice’s culture and uniqueness. Meet people from different departments, and most importantly, allow yourself time. I feel like I am just now fully understanding what makes Rice “Rice.”
Q: Share a bit about your background and career journey.
A: I am still in the early stages of my career. I earned my degree in psychology while serving in the military as a 68W (combat medic), and I also worked in EMS for a couple of years.
I was born and raised in Senegal. I grew up speaking Wolof, French and Lebu. About 10 years ago, I moved to the United States, specifically Alabama. My parents believed in a “sink-or-swim” approach, so I started high school without speaking a word of English. Fortunately, they were right, and I quickly learned the language. I lived in Alabama for about six years before moving to Maryland and now Houston.
Q: What’s your favorite lunch spot or snack?
A: Favorite snack is nkate cake, which is a West African style peanut butter brittle. I also love poke bowls from Dish Society. If you haven’t been yet, give it a shot.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
A: Everyone has something to teach you. Take the time to get to know people and learn from them. You will find answers to questions you didn’t even realize you had.
Oh, also talk less and listen more.
Q: If you could be Sammy The Owl for a day, what would you do?
A: I’d stay indoors. Can you imagine dancing around in that suit on a hot Houston day?
Q: How would you describe your experience as a Rice employee?
A: It has been great. Rice has given me opportunities and knowledge that I am extremely grateful for.
Q: Where do you see Rice in 25 years?
A: In 25 years, I see Rice University remaining one of the top schools in the United States. The institution will continue to lead in engineering and science and will drive groundbreaking research. I am excited for Rice’s future.
Q: What’s your favorite memory from your time with Rice?
A: My first Beer Bike. I highly encourage all employees to go at least once and experience this Rice tradition.
Q: Describe Rice in four words or less.
A: Brilliant, diverse, different, dynamic.