Exploring Paths

In just his first semester at Rice, Trey Fischbach '25 has already had some of the most remarkable opportunities at his fingertips in academics and in extracurricular activities. With support from The Rice Investment, Trey can take advantage of all that Rice has to offer, gaining valuable insight for his future.

Trey Fischbach '25 knows he wants to major in a STEM field — potentially physics or electrical engineering — but, like many first-year students, he's still in the process of narrowing his interests. In his first semester at Rice, Trey has taken courses in physics, math and computer science to set a foundation for further exploration in the sciences. "I came to Rice because I knew I'd have the time to try things out, unlike at other schools where you have to go in with a major already in mind," Trey says. "There are also so many hands-on research opportunities to help me really figure out what I want to do."

Outside of academics, Trey is also trying out some new extracurriculars. Already a dedicated member of Duncan College, Trey immediately joined the Beer Bike team for his college, which has sparked an interest in biking. An experienced swimmer, when a friend suggested he join the triathlon team, Trey was ready to give it a try. His first race is in the spring.

Trey also has picked up a hobby by chance: playing in a band. One day while Trey was playing piano in a Duncan practice room, another student asked if he could accompany Trey on the drums. "I've never played with anyone, and it's a whole different level. You can feel when you are in and out of sync, and it's a really collaborative process," Trey says. Now, Trey and three other friends have started a band, playing a range of tunes from 70s and 80s hits to Brazilian jazz.

Looking just at his first few months at Rice, Trey has certainly been able to fulfill his goal of exploring different interests to find his niche, and he is grateful for help from The Rice Investment. "I love Rice, and I really love being here. Financial aid makes Rice possible for me," Trey explains.

"There are so many intelligent people out there," he continues. "By limiting students to only those who can afford tuition, you won't get this amazing diversity of people coming together on campus." Certain deferred gifts to support The Rice Investment, like Forest Davenport's '77 unitrust (cover story), allow Trey and other exceptional students to explore the paths to their future and access Rice's transformative experiences.