Nelson builds a career
Student of the Week: Nelson Vargas
Nelson Vargas already works in the field of construction, he is in an assistant superintendent role with a successful local builder. Now he’s enrolled at South Texas College to further his experience and grow his potential.
He entered the Construction Supervision program in January 2019. Vargas is pursuing the Construction Supervision Associate of Applied Science.
The Construction Supervision student will focus on acquiring the skills necessary to monitor, direct and conduct supervision processes to include but not limited to planning, scheduling, coordinating, estimating, and supervising all or part of the construction activities along with the selection, hiring and oversight of specialty trade contractors, as well as accessing risk and safety factors on-site.
The department also offers a certificate program ‘Construction Supervision Assistant Certificate.’
“STC does a great job in helping their students adjust to college life," He said. "I was nervous about signing up but once I decided to join, everything just fell into place. Suddenly I was a college student.”
Vargas says he’s enjoying his time on campus and he is appreciative of the challenge.
“I've enjoyed my time in college,” Vargas said. “The teachers have been so helpful and endearing, and I appreciate the friends I’ve made. STC is far from being an easy school, but it’s comforting to know my school is working hard for me too.”
As an employee of Esperanza Homes, he hopes to gain knowledge in the classroom and experience at his job to expand his abilities.
“STC does a great job in helping their students adjust to college life. I was nervous about signing up but once I decided to join, everything just fell into place. Suddenly I was a college student.”
“I’m working as an assistant superintendent for Esperanza Homes, so I plan to work with them for a few more years before starting on what’s next,” Vargas said. “In the meantime, I’d like to continue going to school and soaking up the experiences.
He says his approach to learning is a driving factor as to why he enjoys education so much. Even during free time he uses it to be active and tries to gain as much as he can.
“I don’t know If I can call it unique, but I try my best to always keep myself open to learning,” Vargas said. “I listen to podcasts on long drives, I’d use Duolingo while walking my dog. I think pushing yourself to exercise more of your brain polishes your ability to focus and soak up new information. The more you learn, the more likely you’ll find something new that you like and want to look into, which motivates you to keep learning.”
As he progresses through his education, Vargas had a message for other students that might follow in his footsteps. His advice was practical and useful, so listen up.
“Take your time,” He said. “Wake up early. Don’t drink too much coffee. Also, take lots of physical notes. Don’t be too hard on yourself, but don’t be so quick to give up.”