Before earning her degree in construction management from Kennesaw State University, Zaida Bustamante balanced a full-time job and raising three sons with her husband. As a first-generation college graduate and nontraditional student, she managed her studies around work and family commitments.
“I had never pictured myself going to college,” Bustamante said. “As a first-generation student, I didn’t know how to apply or what steps to take, but I knew I wanted more for myself and for my kids.”
Bustamante grew up in Chicago and developed an early interest in buildings. After moving to Georgia, she faced academic challenges and barely graduated high school. She married young, focused on her family, and worked custodial and warehouse jobs. When she was passed over for a promotion due to not having a degree, she decided it was time for change.
“I realized I could not keep limiting myself,” she said. “I wanted to grow, and I wanted my children to see that growth.”
She began taking classes one at a time while exploring different fields before earning an associate degree. Ultimately, her interest in construction led her to Kennesaw State University’s College of Architecture and Construction Management (CACM).
“The more I read about the program, the more I felt like it was where I belonged,” Bustamante said.
Her first semester included challenging courses such as precalculus and physics. To manage these demands, Bustamante organized assignments with spreadsheets, kept detailed notes, attended supplemental instruction sessions, and studied whenever possible.
“There were days I wanted to quit,” she said. “But every time I learned something new, it reminded me why I started.” Her efforts resulted in top grades in those subjects.
During her time at CACM, Bustamante became active in student organizations. She served as president of the Associated General Contractors student chapter from 2024 to 2025 and treasurer of Kennesaw Women in Construction from 2022 to 2025. Through activities such as site tours and networking events, she gained deeper insight into the industry.
“I used to think construction was one job,” she said. “Now I know it is an entire world of opportunities.”
Mentorship played a role in her progress. Faculty members like Senior Lecturer Jeff Setzer provided guidance as Bustamante planned her future career path. Academic advisor Sara Wilgus helped enroll her in the Double Owl pathway so she could earn graduate-level business credits while completing undergraduate requirements.
“Those classes pushed me out of my comfort zone,” Bustamante said. “They made me feel like I belonged in professional spaces.”
CACM Dean Hazem Rashed Ali commented on Bustamante’s achievements: “Zaida has excelled because she brings commitment, discipline, and a strong sense of purpose to everything she does,” Rashed-Ali said. “Students like her remind us why we build pathways for learners at every stage of life. She is stepping into the industry fully prepared to lead.”
After graduation, Bustamante will begin working as a project engineer with RaLin Construction in Carrollton. She plans ongoing involvement with Kennesaw Women in Construction and hopes to join National Women in Construction.
“Women deserve to see themselves in this industry,” she said. “I want young girls to know that construction is a place where they can thrive.”
Her story has already influenced her children; her oldest son is learning blueprint reading and considering construction programs himself.
“It feels full circle. I figured out the path on my own, but now I get to guide my children. This degree represents every moment I chose to keep going,” Bustamante said. “If my story shows anything, it is that it is never too late to build a new future.”
