As part of New Tech Network’s focus on College and Career readiness we interview NTN alumni to understand how attending an NTN school uniquely prepares them for life after graduation.
by Cindy Arteaga, METSA alumna
Photo: Southern Methodist University
Where you are now and what are your plans for the future?
For the past year and a half, I have been working full-time as a Structural Engineer for the structural (bridge) department at Huitt-Zollars, Inc. I recently completed the engineering graduate program at Southern Methodist University and received my Masters of Science in Civil Engineering with an emphasis in Structural Engineering. I hope to become an experienced professional within my career field and broaden my engineering knowledge. My next goal is to pass my civil engineering P.E (Professional Engineering) exam and become a licensed professional engineer. My hope is to have the opportunity to work on challenging, thought-provoking projects and provide quality work to my clients.
What skills from METSA have helped you along your path?
The 21st century skills taught and practiced in METSA enhanced my learning experience when I was in college. College is definitely the time to learn about yourself and apply your skills to progress in the academic and corporate world. I was truly fortunate to have had a unique high school teaching model in comparison to most of my college peers. I was able to assist my peers on collaborative projects with my research, presentation, and leadership skills. As I pursued my career, I was exposed to endless opportunities that allowed me to practice my communication, active collaboration, and critical thinking skills, to name a few. By having these skills instilled in me since high school, I was able to succeed in completing my higher education and earning a great job offer where I could continue applying my work ethic skills.
New Tech Network has had the pleasure of following Cindy from her Freshman year at METSA to today. Watch this video to learn more about Cindy’s experience at METSA and read more about her education path in the Huffington Post.