I attended SDSU from 2015 to 2019 where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and minors in Construction Management and Heavy-Highway Construction Management. While at State I was involved with SWE, ASCE, Honors, and Pep Band. From my first tour at State, I knew it was the place for me, because of the instant personal relationships I was able to make and the instant feeling that I was at home! I continued to make so many lasting friendships and connections over the years!
I was able to intern with the SDDOT for 3 years before graduation, where I learned a variety of skills and gained an abundance of knowledge. Upon graduating I began working with the SDDOT as a Road Design Engineer and moved back home to Pierre. I have had the opportunity to work with our recruitment group since I started, which has given me many opportunities to come back to State to visit with many students and faculty. I always enjoy seeing the changes to campus, as well as meeting new students and catching up with students I’ve met previously.
I have two pieces of advice for students. First, in this day and age of technology do not let that impact meeting and talking with coworkers and colleagues. Although it may be easier to send an email or a team’s message, you miss out on so many key opportunities to really get to know the people you are talking to and making lifelong connections when you avoid a face-to-face conversation. Second, which applies to both college and professional life, do not be afraid to ask questions. Although this may seem scary at times, there is no better way to learn the vast knowledge that other people hold than to ask questions, believe it or not, not everything is written down.
