Q&A: Alumna and DOT Civil Engineer Andrea Alvarez Guillen

Since third grade, when Andrea Alvarez Guillen was learning multiplication tables, she was fascinated by numbers. Even then, she knew she would use that love in a career, maybe as a teacher, architect, or engineer. A couple of years later, Guillen narrowed it down to engineer. When she was a junior in high school, she learned that Piedmont offers a 3+2 engineering program. Of all the schools she was accepted to, Piedmont won her over with its “perfect size.” In this question-and-answer, Guillen discusses her early years at Piedmont, pursuing three degrees, working as a civil engineer for the Georgia Department of Transportation, and what’s next for her.

Where did you go to high school? Tell us how you found Piedmont.

I am a Habersham County native and attended Habersham Central High School. Piedmont was on my list of colleges since it was near my home. A tour during my junior year of high school sealed the deal for me. I was able to explore the campus and see campus life. At first, I was extremely nervous, but the students made me feel welcome. At that moment, I knew I wanted to apply to and attend Piedmont, especially since it offered the 3+2 engineering program. Piedmont was perfect. It would be home for three years — my home away from home. 

Are you the first in your family to earn a four-year degree? 

I am a first-generation student, the first person in my family to attend college, but my parents always wanted my sister and me to attend college. The only problem was that neither my parents nor my sister knew anything about college, but my sister was a great help. She guided me and made it possible for me to understand what I needed for college. 

How would you describe your undergraduate experience at Piedmont?

Where should I even begin with my undergraduate experience? At Piedmont, I grew as an individual through campus life, classes, and the low ratio of students to professors. My professors knew my name and were welcoming. They all had office hours that were convenient for me. I could ask questions about class or an assignment. Campus resources, especially the Student Success Center and Student Affairs, were very helpful. Piedmont also constantly had events throughout the week and on weekends, which helped keep the students engaged. Even though I only lived 15 minutes away, I would stay on campus because there was always something to do. I found amazing friends and mentors like Dr. Kim Crawford (Vice President of Student Life).

You went to Kennesaw State University for your civil engineering degree and then returned to Piedmont for your Master of Business Administration (MBA). Why did you decide to get your MBA, and why did you come back to Piedmont to earn it?

I graduated from Kennesaw State University in December 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. When I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics from Piedmont in May 2021, I knew I wanted to continue my education and get my master’s. I have always enjoyed numbers, so I decided to get an MBA. It would improve my versatility and flexibility, help with strategic problem-solving and decision-making skills, and help me learn more about project management. I knew that Piedmont combined personal and practical education since most professors have experience in the business industry. The professors were the same, so they knew who I was and were available for me. They were excellent at giving feedback. I had the opportunity to start working in the residential living department at Piedmont. The MBA program was in an online format, which gave me the flexibility to study and work. 

What is it like being a civil engineer? Is it what you hoped? How so?

Being a civil engineer is great because the industry is so broad. I have always been interested in the transportation side of civil engineering and knew I wanted to go into the public sector to serve my community. I can help people by ensuring the roadways are safe. It is more than I hoped for. I enjoy applying my skills to ensure the roads are safe for traveling. I like that I am in the office and out on the field. Overall, I am ecstatic to have a positive impact on the State of Georgia. 

What are your hopes for the future?

I want to eventually become a District Engineer for District 1. I want to improve transportation and see how it can be better adapted to the future of technology. Create innovations for better and more efficient modes of transportation while improving people's safety. I also want to inspire more students to achieve their goals and see that it is possible, especially as a first-generation student.

Would you recommend Piedmont to prospective students? If so, what would you say to them?

I would absolutely recommend Piedmont University to prospective students. Not only will you get an excellent education, but you will also be able to find your friends for life. The low student-to-professor ratio helped my education by giving me a better understanding of the material. Many professors have worked in the private industry of the material they teach, so they have connections that can aid your career. Being a Piedmont Lion is the best thing that has ever happened to me. 

For more information about Piedmont’s unique degree program, visit piedmont.edu/program/engineering/.