Kevin Ramsey knows how to build things that last. His foray into the construction industry started in 1992 when a family friend encouraged him to partner. The two created a thriving business doing room additions and kitchen remodels. Kevin eventually took over the company and started Alameda Construction Services, Inc. in 1997. Since then, as President, he has grown the company into one of the leaders in construction in Los Angeles and Orange County, California. The company specializes in on-site concrete, including driveway, sidewalks, curbs, and gutters.

As a businessman, Kevin has long understood the importance of education and has never hesitated to pursue academic goals to further his business acumen. His early education focused on obtaining an Associate of Arts degree from Southwest Community College. As a small business owner, he returned to the classroom, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University Los Angeles and then a Master of Science in Construction Management from the University of Southern California (USC). 

Running a growing business with more than 50 employees is no small task. Kevin recognized that adding a law degree to his knowledge base would prove invaluable for his company, but finding the time would be tricky. “I was interested in learning more about the law because I knew this expertise would help me operate my business,” explained Kevin. “I’ve always been motivated to expand my knowledge and follow my entrepreneurial spirit. But juggling law school while running the business and spending time with my family was a tall order. The University of West Los Angeles was the perfect option because they offered an outstanding program of evening classes.”

Kevin enrolled at the UWLA School of Law, where advisors and professors helped him balance the demands of his workload and handle scheduling issues that arose from his work obligations. “When I first started at UWLA, I didn't know what to think, but I quickly realized the School of Law was the ideal fit for my incredibly busy schedule,” added Kevin. “The coursework was difficult, but the professors clarified that you will succeed if you apply yourself. And I’m proof that that is true!”

Kevin successfully completed his law studies, earning his Juris Doctor in June 2019. He then passed the Bar exam in February of the following year, thus becoming a licensed attorney. “Graduating from UWLA School of Law and passing the Bar has helped prepare me for any legal issues that might arise in my business,” said Kevin. “This has given me the confidence to handle anything that comes up in the future. Plus, my UWLA degree lends greater credibility to the business, which is very good for the company's reputation.”

Kevin readily sings the school's praises when asked if he would recommend UWLA to other working professionals contemplating returning to the classroom while still maintaining their day-to-day job responsibilities. He strongly advocates for UWLA, its professors, and its administrators – all of whom helped him have a highly successful academic experience.