KENNESAW, Ga. | Dec 9, 2025

Before she became a construction management graduate, Zaida Bustamante was balancing life by working full-time while raising three sons with her husband.

A nontraditional student and first-generation college graduate, she built her education around work schedules, family responsibilities, and a belief that progress is possible at any age.

“I had never pictured myself going to college,” she 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, where skyscrapers sparked her curiosity about how buildings were built. She often took apart calculators and remote controls as a child just to see what was inside.

When her family moved to Georgia, school became more challenging, and she barely graduated from high school. She married young, focused on raising her sons, and worked steady custodial and warehouse jobs to support her family. College never felt accessible, but the moment she was passed over for a promotion because she lacked a degree became a turning point.

“I realized I could not keep limiting myself,” she said. “I wanted to grow, and I wanted my children to see that growth.”

She returned to school slowly, beginning with one class at a time. She explored nursing, and business management before earning her associate degree. Although she completed the program, she still felt drawn elsewhere.

Construction had always been part of her environment through her husband’s work and her own real estate experience. The more she paid attention, the more she felt pulled toward the field. A late-night search eventually led her to Kennesaw State University and the College of Architecture and Construction Management.

“The more I read about the program, the more I felt like it was where I belonged,” she said.

Her first semester came with significant challenges. Classes like precalculus and physics pushed her into unfamiliar territory. Instead of giving up, Bustamante built systems to stay on track. She created detailed spreadsheets listing every assignment, always kept a notebook and a calendar with her, and attended weekly supplemental instruction sessions. She studied after work, before work, and during moments between her sons’ commitments.

 “There were days I wanted to quit,” she said. “But every time I learned something new, it reminded me why I started.” Her determination led her to earn an A in both courses.

As she continued through the construction management program, Bustamante found meaningful community within CACM. She served as president of the Associated General Contractors student chapter from 2024 to 2025 and as treasurer of Kennesaw Women in Construction from 2022 to 2025. Through job site tours, professional networking, and leadership workshops, her understanding of the field expanded.

“I used to think construction was one job,” she said. “Now I know it is an entire world of opportunities.”

Mentorship strengthened her path. Faculty members such as Senior Lecturer Jeff Setzer and others provided guidance as she planned her future. Her academic advisor, Sara Wilgus, helped her enroll in the Double Owl pathway to earn graduate-level business credits. These courses gave her early exposure to marketing, strategy, and information systems.

“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 said Bustamante’s journey reflects the purpose and spirit of the college, demonstrating what is possible when determination meets opportunity.

“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.”

Bustamante will begin her career as a project engineer with RaLin Construction in Carrollton. She plans to stay involved with Kennesaw Women in Construction and hopes to join National Women in Construction to encourage others entering the field.

“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 experience has already inspired her own children. Her oldest son is now learning blueprint reading and exploring construction programs. For Bustamante, the degree symbolizes perseverance and possibility

“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,” she said. “If my story shows anything, it is that it is never too late to build a new future.”

– Story by Raynard Churchwell

Photos by Darnell Wilburn

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 51,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university's vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.