With a double major in English and computer science, Gabby Franklin ’24 has perfectly aligned her career aspirations with her academic interests. “I want to further the intersection between creative work and the computer-driven world we live in,” she says. She’s well on her way, thanks to the support of the Rice community and her commitment to lead and make the world a better place.
After serving as a developer for RiceApps last year, Gabby is now a product manager for the group, helping build web apps that empower students and community partners. She’s involved in Baker Shakespeare, Houston’s longest-running Shakespeare festival. She recently won the Rice Players’ playwriting competition, and they’ll be producing her dinosaur-themed office play later this spring.
Gabby also serves as the Student Association president, a role in which she is committed to increasing the accessibility and transparency of student government and creating a more inclusive environment on campus. As the student president, she was asked to give remarks that formal inauguration of Rice President Reginald DesRoches last fall. When asked about her upcoming speech at graduation, she modestly says, “It turns out I’m good at writing speeches.”
In Gabby’s work both leading the student governing body and developing software, she encounters challenges around patience and compromise. “We’re in a hurry to find answers,” she says. “I want to do work and show that it’s okay that it takes a bit of time. Rice has really taught me that we can build something bigger that lasts longer if we work together.”
Gabby credits her mother with encouraging her to apply to Rice and knowing she would excel here. When Gabby was selected as a QuestBridge Scholar, which provides her with a full four-year scholarship, she knew she would have the resources and the peace of mind to explore her interests.
“I wouldn’t be the person I am today if I hadn’t come to Rice. I’ve grown so much,” Gabby says. “I’m so thankful for Rice’s donors. All that I’m doing wouldn’t be possible without them.”
With generous support from the Rice Annual Fund, the university continues to offer Sarah and other Owls the best in financial aid, residential college life, student activities, teaching and research. Learn more about how your gift to the Rice Annual Fund can make an impact.
