CIM Student Profile

Marie Valdez

School: Texas State University

Class: Junior

Hometown: Salinas, California

Expected Date of Graduation: May, 2020

“The class that I have enjoyed the most was Fundamentals of Concrete: Properties and Testing because it taught me how to make a mixed design. For the final project, we were to create mix design for a high strength concrete. ”

What school are you currently attending and when is your intended graduation date?
I am currently attending Texas State University and my intended graduation date is May, 2020.

Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Salinas, California.

Why did you choose this university and the CIM program?
I chose to attend Texas State University because it is the only university in Texas that offers CIM. I chose the CIM program after attending a career skills program while transitioning from the military. The program was run by the Concrete Preservation Institute (CPI) which is a non-profit organization that helps military active duty learn new skills in the concrete and construction industry. I was motivated by everything that I learned from CPI and decided to move to Texas to begin my journey as a CIM student.

How has the CIM program prepared you for your upcoming graduation and entrance into the business world?
The CIM program has given me the opportunity to participate and volunteer in different events where I
was able to build relationships and network. The job fairs have helped me shape my communication and
interview skills when speaking to different companies.

What classes have you enjoyed the most?
The class that I have enjoyed the most was Fundamentals of Concrete: Properties and Testing because it taught me how to make a mixed design. For the final project, we had to create a mix design for a high strength concrete. My group spent hours at the lab and library, and our hard work paid off! At the end of
the semester, our group won the competition.

What advice would you give to other current CIM students?
Focus on your career goals and do research on the companies you want to work for. Take advantage of
the events that CIM offers, because you never know what opportunities might come from those events.
Finally, do not wait until your last year to complete a summer internship, because it is good have different internship experiences to know what specialty you are really interested in.