For Nathaniel Uy, the path to Rice University began with a single, decisive choice.
“I only applied to Rice,” Uy said. “If Rice didn’t accept me, I’d still be back in the Philippines.”
Now a Master of Global Affairs candidate in the Class of 2026, Uy has immersed himself in the study of diplomacy, international relations and public policy — fields he hopes will shape his future pursuit of a Ph.D. in political science. His academic journey is grounded in understanding how governments interact, how policies are formed and how global challenges impact regions like his own in Southeast Asia.
Uy’s interests quickly led him to the Baker Institute for Public Policy, a hub for research that connects academic insight with real-world policymaking. As an intern in the China Studies program, he examined the influence of Chinese soft power across Southeast Asia, exploring how economic and political strategies shape relationships between neighboring countries.
“A think tank is where research meets policy,” Uy said. “It gives you the data and understanding behind decisions that affect entire populations.”
Beyond the classroom, Uy has taken full advantage of the opportunities available through Rice’s Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies. He serves as a graduate student ambassador, helping prospective students navigate the application process, and as a resident advisor in graduate housing. He is also a gallery guide at the Moody Center for the Arts, blending his academic interests with a broader engagement in campus life.
His commitment to community extends even further. Recognizing a lack of representation, Uy helped establish a Filipino graduate student organization, creating space for cultural exchange and connection among students from diverse backgrounds.
“Even if there are only a few of us, it’s important to build community,” he said. “And it’s open to everyone — it’s about sharing culture and learning from each other.”
Uy credits Rice’s collaborative and supportive environment for shaping his experience. From faculty mentorship to institutional resources, he said the university has provided a foundation that encourages students to seek out opportunities — and take initiative.
“If there’s an open door at Rice, I knock,” Uy said.
That mindset has defined his time on campus, from securing internships to pursuing research opportunities and preparing for the next step in his academic career. As he looks ahead, Uy remains focused on expanding his work in global policy while representing both Rice and his home country on a broader stage.
For prospective students considering a similar path, his advice is simple.
“Just apply,” he said. “Don’t let the ‘what ifs’ stop you. If it’s for you, it’s going to be for you.”