In December of 2021, Juan Mesa came to the United States from Sogamoso, Colombia. Since then, he has thoroughly enjoyed his time as not only a Central Piedmont student but a Student Ambassador.

His journey began in 2014, when he took ESL (English as a Second Language) classes with his sister at Central Piedmont. Having returned to Colombia to finish his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Juan had another opportunity five years later to return to Charlotte. “Central Piedmont Community College came to mind as the first place I wanted to study, I knew I would receive a quality education along with support for my career aspirations,” Mesa says.

As the son of an architect, Juan knew from an early age that he wanted to be involved in the construction industry. Consequently, Juan decided to study construction management at Central Piedmont. When Juan finishes here, he plans to transfer to UNC Charlotte to complete another bachelor’s degree in construction management, which he will use to contribute to Charlotte’s positive growth.

“Being a part of Central Piedmont has enabled me to meet people from diverse backgrounds and gain an understanding of their beliefs. I have met incredible people and been exposed to a wide variety of cultures,” explains Juan.

Juan’s advice for future Central Piedmont students: “Never lose interest in learning new things and make sure to use the time you have to do things that make you happy.”

Unique fact about Juan: “As the place where I met my wife, the Zeiss Building on Central Campus holds a special place in my heart.”