Alexandra Ledesma is a new graduate from the Construction Management program. An immigrant from Venezuela, she describes in her own words why she chose UH, and the professor that helped her achieve her best.
As an immigrant student originally from Venezuela, I would love to share my opinion after graduating from the University of Houston's M.S. Construction Management program, graduating with a 4.0 GPA while working two jobs and volunteering.
I was born and raised in the vibrant city of Maracaibo, Venezuela. My love for architecture blossomed when I went on a three month tour of Europe at 15.
My academic journey started at the University of Rafael Urdaneta, where I attained a Bachelor of Architecture at 19. My ambition led me to explore opportunities beyond my homeland, and I planned to pursue an Aeronautics graduate program in France.
However, fate took a different turn for me when I came to Houston. I was initially intending to visit my brother for a brief period, but I decided to stay after experiencing the city's vibrant atmosphere and abundant opportunities.
Immersing myself in the field of construction management through internships and academic pursuits, I discovered my calling – to contribute to community development through large-scale construction projects.
I began a graduate program in Construction Management at UH in February 2022. I embraced the opportunity to work alongside like-minded individuals, contributing my unique blend of architectural expertise and construction management skills to various teams working public construction projects.
What truly made my time at UH remarkable was the unwavering support and guidance I received from professors like Lu Gao, associate professor in the Construction Management Department. He brought a wealth of knowledge and passion to the classroom.
His commitment to student success and his ability to impart practical wisdom left an indelible mark on my educational journey. Through his mentorship and the collective efforts of all UH professors, I was equipped with the tools and inspiration to excel in my field and in school, graduating with 4.0 GPA.
My time at the university has not only shaped my professional path but has also instilled a deep sense of pride and belonging to the Cougar community. With gratitude for the opportunities I have been afforded and a renewed sense of purpose, I look forward to continuing my journey of contributing to the construction industry and making a positive difference in the world.
Thank you to my family always for the support! And to my fellow students, opportunity is always there. Just have faith in yourself, and pursue them.