Student Spotlight
Drennan Allen
Drennan Allen, born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is president of the Mississippi State Chapter of Sigma Lambda Chi, which he helped establish at the university. Allen is a member of the Associated Builders and Contractors group, as well as, Phi Kappa Phi, Omicron Delta Kappa, and Gamma Beta Phi. Allen serves as the Director of Membership at the Project Management Institute of Central Mississippi. Throughout his years at MSU, Allen has consistently been on the President's List. He has also interned with Robins & Morton in Tampa, Florida. This semester, Allen is working with Robins & Morton again in Birmingham in the pre-construction department.
Student Statement
"My time at Mississippi State can be summarized as a time of mentorship, exploration, growth and adventure. The mentorship I have received from the faculty of the College of Architecture, Art, and Design has been above and beyond the call of duty. Day in and day out, the faculty has proven themselves to care for my future and personal wellbeing. They have opened opportunities, guided me through difficult decisions, and presented many challenges for my personal development. It has been a pleasure to work under them and grow. Entering Mississippi State as a transfer student, I had little to no knowledge of the construction industry. The university welcomed me in and gave me the instruction required to secure multiple internships, co-ops, and ultimately enter the workforce as a capable individual. The companies Mississippi State introduced me to seamlessly continued my education with real-world experience. This would have not been possible without the faculty of the Building Construction Science program."
Q & A
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I will be working as a Project Manager at a general contracting company while pursuing my goal of real estate development on the side. I plan to continue my work with the Project Management Institute in some capacity and be heavily involved in community volunteer efforts. Hopefully, I will be closer to my lifelong dream of sailing around the world.
What is your favorite tradition at MSU?
I transferred into Mississippi State, so I missed a large amount of the traditions that the typical student would experience and have knowledge of. Other than the obvious traditions like baseball games at Dudy Noble, I have created some of my own. Sunset runs at the North Farm, self-reflection at the Veteran’s Rose Garden, and finding unique places to hammock across campus have become some of my favorite things to do at Mississippi State.
What has been your favorite thing about your program at MSU?
Construction is a field where you are always learning. You will never find a program that will teach you everything you need to know for a career. It can, however, teach you important skills that can translate into success. The BCS program at Mississippi State really emphasizes asking questions, researching issues, and solving problems. It prepares the student for the real world in a more applicable way than providing a limited set of skills. It teaches interpersonal communication, being an active learner, and the ability to work in a team with others who have completely different ideas and thought processes than you. Oftentimes those ideas will clash, and it is in the discussion and debate that the student grows the most. My favorite thing about the program has been the mentorship. Having a department head and professors who show genuine interest in your development, give advice beyond the scope of the curriculum, and reach out on your behalf has been the most impactful thing from the program.
What advice would you give to an upcoming senior at Mississippi State?
The best advice I could give to an upcoming senior at Mississippi State is to begin to strategically think about ways you can improve yourself. Bolster your resume by getting certifications, trainings, licenses, volunteer or leadership positions. Reach out and build relationships with those in your desired career field. A strong network will go a long way and will help you down the line. Morality is a commonly overlooked asset in today’s world. Kindness and a genuine heart will take you far in life. Always take accountability for your actions. Everyone fails at some point. The way you navigate those failures and take accountability will define who you are to the world. Do not be afraid; be bold in your pursuit of excellence. Be able to stand up in a room full of people and say, “I was wrong.” Learn from your mistakes and continue to improve yourself on your life’s journey.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Upon graduation, I plan on taking a project management role with a general contracting company and pursuing my MBA. I enjoy moving to new locations, and I am excited to see where my job takes me and the opportunities that arise.
By Lauren Skelton | April 2022