Cat Corrales
IESA degree obtained and graduation year:
B.S. Environmental Spatial Analysis, 2021
What is your current professional title?
Master's student, CSULB
Since graduating from ÎçÒ¹¿ì²¥’s IESA, what are you doing professionally (describe the organization you are with and your associated role)?
After graduating from ÎçÒ¹¿ì²¥, I took a year off of school to work in the public school system and then enrolled in the M.S. in GISci program at CSULB. I am currently a graduate student and a GIS intern for Golden State Water Company. I would best describe my role as an intern as being equivalent to that of a GIS Technician.
What things or experiences in IESA do/did you value the most?
My favorite thing about being a student in IESA was the collaborative culture that the department fostered. Gaining experience working in groups and having to figure out how to solve problems with a team really prepared me for the workforce.
What advice would you give a current IESA student?
Don't be afraid to ask questions! Build relationships with your peers and your professors, and make sure to build a work portfolio to showcase your skills.
What strengths would you most value if hiring a recent graduate?
Willingness to learn new things, strong analytical skills, and strong verbal and written communication skills.