With 60,000+ Rice alumni ready to share insights, open doors and offer guidance, your next opportunity is just a question away.
Ask an Owl.

You ask.
They answer.

Owls love helping students and fellow graduates. So what’s one question you have for someone who’s done what’s ahead of you?

Need inspiration? Here's what others like you have asked.

“Hi! I’m Marco, a junior majoring in Political Science and minoring in Data Science. I’m really interested in the intersection of tech and public policy, especially how data is used to shape decision-making.

If any alumni are working in civic tech, data-driven policy roles or related areas, I’d love to hear about your path and any advice you have for gaining experience before graduation. Thanks so much!”

“Hi, I’m Priya, a 2016 grad with a background in electrical engineering. After a few years in the industry, I’m exploring a shift into sustainability-focused work — possibly in energy tech or climate policy.

If you’ve made a similar transition or work in this space, I’d be grateful to hear how you approached it. Thanks in advance!”

“Hello Rice alumni, I’m Camille, a senior majoring in History and planning to graduate this spring. I’ve enjoyed my coursework but am now seriously considering a new direction: applying to medical school.

If you’ve made a similar transition or have advice on building relevant skills and finding entry points into the field, I’d really appreciate your insights. Thank you!

It’s easy as 1, 2, 3

How does this work??

You Ask A Question

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you're looking for (5 minutes).

We Recruit Experts

We find and share your question with the best alumni in our entire community.

You Get Answers

Responses get delivered right into your email inbox (2-3 days).

Click here to get started or watch our short video that will turn you into a networking rock star.

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT CAN I ASK?

Literally anything to help with your academic or professional development. There are thousands of alumni, faculty, staff and friends that can help with class projects, building and growing a startup, or figuring out career options.

Think of your question as an advertisement. Share who you are, what you are doing, and what you need help with. Focus on keywords that will get you the right connections. Keep it short and sweet. Here’s a short video on how to craft a great question that will get you results and help build your network.

We send your request to the best alumni, faculty, and staff in your area of interest.

No. We make our matches based on availability, proximity, experience, and skills.

Yes, of course! Once we make a match you’ll have direct, one-to-one communication and can ask additional questions. 

Our goal is to get you answers within 3 business days. But it depends on what you’re asking. It can go as quickly as an hour to as long as 10 days or more.

Your question will not be made public. It will be seen only by matched experts and a handful of administrators.

No. You can ask as many questions as you would like. In fact, we encourage it as this is the simplest way for you to build your professional network.

Go ahead and ask

It has never been simpler to get help from others that have done what’s ahead of you.

The use of Ask An Owl is subject to our Terms Of Use. Questions? Contact us at askanowl@rice.edu.