We sat down with Ma, who currently interns with GreenbergFarrow, to discuss the path that led her to the School of Building Construction and the milestones in her graduate journey so far.

This is Ma's story, in her own words:

I completed my Bachelor’s in Construction Management in 2014 in China. One of my professors introduced Facility Management and Operations as a growing field. I was interested in the full life cycle of a building, so this really interested me.You might spend two to four years on the design/construction of a building project, but you can spend 50+ years on a building when discussing usage.  

I wanted to come to Georgia Tech. It is a top public institution in America and I love Atlanta. I knew about Atlanta from watching the Olympics.

One of the things that stood out to me was the opportunity to intern on campus with Georgia Tech’s Facility Management Division. I was able to put in practice what I was learning and have good professional mentors. I learned how to be more professional.

With that new confidence, I was able to find an off campus internship with an Architectural firm. I focused on energy modeling. I have a goal and passion for sustainability and want a green, full time position. I also now have friends from all over the world. There are so many successful men and women I met at Georgia Tech. This global experience has broadened my horizons. 

I advise future students to be brave, don’t be afraid. I suggest they experience the local culture, be involved, keep an open mind, make friends and make every moment count. Students should find something they love, you have a lot of opportunities here.

Visit our website for more information on the School of Building Construction at Georgia Tech. You can contact Xia Ma via https://www.linkedin.com/in/xia-ma