Turn your leadership goals into reality
Some goals are hard to achieve on your own.
Whether you want to become a more confident leader, speak up in meetings, navigate difficult conversations, manage your time, or strengthen your communication skills, Synthesis gives you the support to make meaningful progress.
Synthesis is a small-group coaching experience where you'll work alongside a professional leadership coach and a group of fellow Rice students who are invested in your success.
Over five 90-minute sessions, you'll identify one leadership goal, create a plan to achieve it, and receive encouragement, accountability, and fresh perspectives every step of the way.
You'll not only make progress toward your own goals—you'll also become a better leader by learning how to support others through thoughtful questions, active listening, and meaningful conversations.
In this module, participants will:
- Set one meaningful leadership goal and create a plan to achieve it
- Build confidence through accountability, coaching, and peer support
- Learn how to overcome obstacles by breaking big goals into manageable steps
- Gain new perspectives by learning alongside other motivated Rice students
- Build lasting relationships with peers who are committed to helping each other succeed
Whether you're preparing for your next leadership role or simply want to make meaningful progress on a goal that matters to you, Synthesis provides the coaching, community, and accountability to help you get there.
Time Commitment
5 (90-minute) sessions throughout 1 semester.
In-person and virtual available.
Fall 2026 Groups
Undergraduate Only (In-person)
Session 1: Monday, September 14th, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Session 2: Monday, September 28th, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Session 3: Monday, October 5th, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Session 4: Monday, October 26th, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Session 5: Monday, November 9th, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Undergraduate Only (Virtual)
Session 1: Tuesday, September 15th, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Session 2: Tuesday, September 29th, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Session 3: Tuesday, October 6th, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Session 4: Tuesday, October 27th, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Session 5: Tuesday, November 10th, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Graduate Only (In-person)
Session 1: Thursday, September 17th, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Session 2: Thursday, October 1st, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Session 3: Thursday, October 15th, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Session 4: Thursday, October 29th, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Session 5: Thursday, November 12th, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Graduate Only (Virtual)
Session 1: Tuesday, September 15th, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Session 2: Tuesday, September 29th, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Session 3: Tuesday, October 6th, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Session 4: Tuesday, October 27th, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Session 5: Tuesday, November 10th, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
New to Doerr?
Synthesis is the perfect place to start. It’s a low-pressure way to experience coaching, learn alongside peers, and build your leadership skills without a big time commitment. If you want to ease into coaching and see what it’s all about, Synthesis is a great first step.
Returning to Doerr?
Already completed Activation? Synthesis is the perfect next step to keep your momentum going. You’ll continue working with a coach on your goals while connecting with other driven leaders. It’s a powerful way to deepen your growth and expand your impact beyond your own leadership.
Registration is Open!
Registration is now open for Doerr Institute fall semester programs. The deadline to register is Friday, September 4th.
Register early!
Registration is first come, first served. Once a Synthesis group reaches capacity, registration will close—register early to secure your spot.
Questions? Contact leadership@rice.edu