What made you decide to choose your specific major?
After working a couple years in the “real world” in the mountains of Colorado, I fell in love with working with a team, building, organizing, and running events at different capacities. The chance to work on something different every week or even every day, usually outside was something I cherished. In my time working outside of school, I witnessed examples of good management and poor management. I felt that CM perfectly encapsulates my interests of building projects, collaboratively, with a managerial environment.
What are a couple of your favorite things about your program of study?
Some of my favorite things about this program is the ease of communication with the multitude of professors and TA’s. Everyone in the program is eager and willing to help, provide a networking contact, or just be there to listen to any struggles you might be having. I am incredibly blessed that the new Dudley/Lambertus hall was completed before the start of my second semester. I have been able to utilize the construction lab on the first floor and be taught hands-on construction trades at a level most college kids would envy.
What has been one of your favorite class projects?
One of my favorite class projects was erecting a 16’ x 16’ steel structure. We were able to use miniature steel beams and a small-scale crane to build a structure that mirrored that of one you would see on a commercial project. Another fun project we got to be a part of was going on site to the new renovations being added to the Ross-Ade football stadium. A former faculty member of Purdue was a safety coordinator for the project and was able to give us an in-depth tour of the project right at its onset.
What other activities are you involved in on campus?
It was three years between graduating high school and starting here at Purdue for me so I was hesitant to jump into anything more than I could handle this first year. That being said I was able to secure a job at a local restaurant, joined the Purdue Club Golf Team, and recently joined a construction club – AGC “Associated General Contractors of America”. This club has opened my eyes to the possibilities of connecting and networking with other industry professionals as well as travel opportunities and local activities like an industry golf outing.
What do you know about your program of study now that you wish someone had told you when you were choosing a major?
Something I know now about my major that I wish someone had told me when selecting my major is that the construction industry is HUGE! There are hundreds of avenues and routes this program can lead you to and connect you with. This applies to lots of majors here at Purdue, in that while they might have a specific name or title, this university has all the tools you need to be set up for long term success in a career.
What would be one piece of advice for prospective students or new Purdue students?
My one piece of advice to new students is BREATHE! Especially in the first couple of months there is a firehose of information coming at you that can easily overwhelm you and make you feel like you’re drowning or can’t keep up…I know I sure felt that way. There are so many resources for help and advice for new students so take advantage of them! Every faculty member here at Purdue are here to help and encourage you to be the best version of yourself. And remember… boiler up and hammer down!