Career News, Updates & Insights

Howdy from CRA College Station, Texas!

College Station, located about 100 miles northwest of Houston, about 100 miles northeast of Austin, and less than 200 miles south of Dallas, is home to Texas A&M University, one of the nation’s largest public universities and a proud member of the Southeastern Conference. College Station has a vibrant college sports culture and is known for its “small town feel,” despite having a population of more than 100,000 and being among the 15 fastest-growing metros in the country!
So what’s our office like?
The Commute: College Station and the town of Bryan are two neighboring cities—similar to how Cambridge borders Boston. The CRA office is actually located in Bryan, but it’s considered “College Station” because of its proximity. We all live within a 15 mile radius of the office (some, as close as just three miles away). BONUS—the cost of living in College Station is lower than the US average! Texas is also state income tax free.
The Lunch Spots: College Station is a mecca for restaurants, appealing to college students, families, and young working singles. Most are local, small family businesses, but we also have the chains, like Panera Bread and Chipotle. Texas Bar-B-Que (specifically “C&J’s BBQ”), Mexican (“Fuego’s” and “FreeBirds”), sandwich fare (“Blue Baker”), and the traditional “Aggie” favorites (like “The Dixie Chicken”) are some of the more popular spots. In our office, we often bring our own lunch, although there are occasions when one of us makes a food run to grab something to-go. About once a week we eat together in the conference room or go out for a bite. BONUS—Texas cuisine is influenced by a wide range of cultures, so there is a variety of big flavors. College Station is conveniently located to experience both the Houston and Austin food scenes (which have their own unique styles)!
The Dress Code: Our office style is casual—jeans, khakis, the occasional slacks, polos, button-ups… The CRA jacket is also quite popular. However, when we meet with clients, we put on a suit.
Social Outings: Like all CRA offices, our office culture is genuinely caring. We schedule social outings to connect outside of the office, and guests are always welcomed. Additionally, our VP hosts an annual crawfish boil at his home!
After living in the Boston area for almost nine years, I moved to College Station and began my career with CRA. CRA’s College Station office is exactly what I have been looking for professionally—a challenging and intellectual environment, the ability to contribute immediate and measurable results, and the opportunity to be a part of a global organization that provides me with the resources I need to be successful—all within an exciting, collegiate community. BONUS—the people I work with make coming to work an enjoyable experience!

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