I can confidently say that the incredibly diverse community that exists within Taubman has made me feel like I truly belong here, every single day.
Hometown
Santa Cruz, Bolivia
Degree Program(s)
B.S. Architecture
Expected Graduation Date
April 2025
Academic Areas of Interest
Architecture, art, environmentalism
Hobbies or interests outside of academia
Painting, drawing, reading, volleyball
Why did you choose Taubman College as the right program for you?
Bolivia will undoubtedly have my heart forever, but I think I always knew I wanted to study somewhere else. I always felt that the rest of the world was calling me and telling me to go out there and explore it. When the time came, I did so much research on several architecture schools and amazing programs all throughout the US. The opportunities offered here at Taubman, the Professors who were going to guide me, and all of the tools and resources that I was going to be given truly mesmerized me, and that’s when I knew I wanted Ann Arbor to become my new home for the next couple of years.
What is special or excites you about the Taubman community?
Being an international student, even though it has always been my biggest dream, is honestly such a beautifully scary thing. Living far away from your family and friends can make you think that you are alone and that you are just another person in the big crowd. I can confidently say that the incredibly diverse community that exists within Taubman has made me feel like I truly belong here, every single day. We are all here because the school saw something special in every single one of us.
If applicable, tell us about studio culture – what is inspiring or innovative or unique?
I’m a sophomore, so my studio classes will start next year. However, I’m aware that students taking studio classes start the semester being all just classmates, and they end it as a big, bonded family. Critiques, advice, communal help, shared working spaces, and days and nights of hard work are, what I believe, make this beautiful bond as unique as it is, and I’m very excited to be able to experience it in the future.
Describe your experience with faculty and professional staff during your time at Taubman?
You can clearly tell whenever an instructor is not passionate about what they are trying to teach. I have not encountered a single Professor who I didn’t notice their love both for architecture and for teaching it here at Taubman. Their passion comes out of their pores. To have the opportunity of being surrounded by such inspiring, talented professionals and, ultimately, really nice people is something that I’ll always be thankful for.
How has Taubman’s career and professional development support prepared you for a successful career in your chosen field?
Taubman does a great job of providing us with some amazing opportunities and resources that will be very useful for our future. Whether it’s networking events, career fairs, one-on-one advising meetings, or interactive lectures with important/relevant figures from the field, the school makes sure that there is always something fun going on for us, and that we also feel heard and seen. This definitely makes me feel more well-prepared and informed about my next steps toward having a successful professional career one day.
What benefits have you experienced being part of the University of Michigan?
U of M is such a big place. The university gives you the opportunity to try and experience so many new and exciting things, things that I, personally, never thought I would ever do in my life. I’ve joined art clubs, had a mural painting class, and joined a professional architecture fraternity, amongst many other really cool things. Overall, being a part of this University has helped me slowly get closer to the person I’m meant to become in the future, and it makes me the most excited.
What do you like most about being part of the Ann Arbor community?
Knowing that I’m a tiny part of this vibrant city full of amazing individuals can be scary and give you immense satisfaction at the same time. People who I see riding the bus with me, or walking down the street, or sitting across the room – they will be my family forever. It’s something that you could only understand once you’re here to experience it for yourself. Such an indescribable feeling.
What advice would you give prospective students as they consider Taubman College?
Do your research, and center it around YOUR most important values and goals. I can talk to you about how much I love this school and this city for hours, but it is ultimately up to you to decide if they are the right fit for you. Read about the class requirements you’ll have to take, read about which Professors are teaching them, the events offered, and if you can, visit and tour Ann Arbor and Taubman itself.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’m not sure yet! I may work for a while until I get a good amount of experience, and then go and pursue my Master’s degree-hopefully having a good amount of opened doors and new, beautiful real-life knowledge and problem-solving skills.
Additional advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective students?
Never doubt yourself, your abilities, and ultimately life itself. Everything happens for a reason. You reading this was not a coincidence – you’re meant to be here, right now. I know that applications are overwhelming, but always show who you are, what makes you special, and what you are most passionate about — even the little things; especially the little things. If you are able to express that in your application, I promise that no matter where you end up, it will be exactly where you are supposed to be.