Alissa Nash
Assistant Project Manager, Beca
Bachelor of Construction in Construction Management
She loved that her studies were aligned with real-world scenarios, says Alissa Nash who completed a Bachelor of Construction in Construction Management in 2025.
“I’ve always wanted to go into project management but, as I was the first person in my family to go to university, I thought this was only possible through engineering or business. I went to the Stay on Track with AUT event where I was given one-on-one advice and was made aware of the Bachelor of Construction in Construction Management, which perfectly aligned with my future career aspirations.
“I enjoyed the process of studying as I knew that it’s practical information that will be useful to me in my future career. AUT also provided me with career expos and many other opportunities to introduce myself to leading companies in the construction industry. Speaking to people already in the industry about their personal experiences in the roles I want to be in one day helped give me valuable insights and an idea of what to expect in the industry while I was still studying.”
With her studies now behind her, Alissa is looking forward to applying what she has learnt at AUT in her role as an assistant project manager at Beca.
“I’m eager to contribute towards large-scale projects that make a positive impact to my community, while aligning with my passions of collaboration and problem solving for such a rewarding and visual final product.”
Welcoming and supportive
Alissa says she thoroughly enjoyed her studies.
“I’d definitely recommend studying at AUT. They provide an environment that is welcoming and supportive to all, while ensuring that the teaching is highly relevant and applicable to what is needed in the industry. I was proud when the Beca interviewers for my current role told me that my own experience and knowledge set me apart, which I attribute to my classes and work experience done, particularly in my last year as I found the interview questions aligned very closely to what we were learning.
“Some of the highlights of my studies were joining a network of likeminded individuals through the AUT Lean Construction Student Association, completing my practical work experience hours, and being eligible to fast-track my studies and complete my degree earlier. I was also proud of my 8.4 grade point average and the letters of high distinction I received in my first year at uni, and loved being chosen to represent the student cohort in my second year for a RICS accreditation panel visit, which was successful.”
Her supportive lecturers impressed her.
“When I first started studying at AUT I was surprised by how willing the lecturers were to help when I asked for extra support. That made a world of difference to my understanding of content as well as helping me build strong connections with my lecturers.”
Advice for other students
Alissa has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their university journey.
“My advice would be to first reach out to staff at AUT to find a course that best suits you, and then while you’re completing this course continue to reach out as much as possible to your lecturers and peers. This will ensure you make the most of student life while you’re at AUT as well as help make important future connections.”
There’s plenty of support if you need it, she adds.
“One of the biggest challenges I faced while studying is when I had COVID-19 and was required to isolate. AUT was quick to adapt their learning style when the pandemic first hit, therefore when I needed extra support it was readily available with clear instructions of how best to go about continuing my learning. My lecturers were very understanding and accommodating of everyone’s situation.”
