Jessica Viramontes
Cal Poly - B.A. English, 2006
Other degrees/certificates:
B.S. Environmental Management, 2006; Anthropology/Geography Minor
Current city/state:
San Francisco, CA
Employer:
Matrix Environmental
Professional Website:
Job Title:
Planner
How Long in Current Position:
4 years
Brief description of position duties/responsibilities:
I am responsible for project-related tasks including EIR section writing, integrating technical reports, proposal writing, fulfilling public noticing requirements, analytical research, document management, and production and distribution.
What specific qualities/abilities, skills are necessary for this position:
Writing and research skills, familiarity with the California Environmental Quality Act.
While at Cal Poly, what resources did you take advantage of that have helped you in your current position:
Association of Environmental Professionals student club, Coastal Resources Institute
What advice would you give to someone interested in your profession?
Network and improve your writing skills as much as possible
Is there anything you'd like to personally add about how you found your way to your current career since graduating from Cal Poly as an English major? Any memorable epiphanies that marked major turning points on which path you chose?
I started out as an English major, but I wasn't sure what I wanted to do with the degree. I heard about the Environmental Management degree and figured it would combine two of my interests: writing and the environment. Then I got involved with AEP, got an internship, and decided I wanted to work in the Bay Area. I would suggest that students not be afraid of more work if it turns out that their current path won't lead them to their desired destination. I could have graduated in 2 years with an English degree, but instead it took me 4 years to get 2 degrees. I've never regretted that decision. With respect to the type of career you choose, get an internship! It will help you decide not only if you like the work, but what kind of office atmosphere best suits you.
Contact:
jessicaviramontes@gmail.com