David Vega

One visit and I had been able to envision myself utilizing Taubman’s cutting-edge technology and resources to develop my intellectual curiosities and experience revolutionary architectural research.

Hometown
Carmel, NY, United States

Degree Program(s)
M.Arch 3G

Expected Graduation Date
2025

Academic Areas of Interest
Urban Systems, Artificial-Intelligence, Biomimicry, Sustainability

Hobbies or interests outside of academia
Reading, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), Music

Why did you choose Taubman College as the right program for you?
While pursuing my selection for graduate studies, I was innately drawn to Taubman. I saw the opportunity to study at Taubman College was more than an incredible education but a chance to step into an environment that prides itself on the success and growth of its students. One visit and I had been able to envision myself utilizing Taubman’s cutting-edge technology and resources to develop my intellectual curiosities and experience revolutionary architectural research.

What is special or excites you about the Taubman community?
I believe what makes Taubman what it is, is not only the resources but our globally diverse community, dedicated to creating an atmosphere of growth for the next generation of architects and planners. Taubman’s progressive and experimental nature has curated countless opportunities and an influx of the world of design. Being a part of this constantly adapting institution feels like being a part of something greater than yourself. Our Taubman community, from faculty to our student body, strives to provide an open-minded breeding ground for architectural and urban design experimentation and the expansion of what it means to design, develop, and be a part of the built environment.

If applicable, tell us about studio culture – what is inspiring or innovative or unique?
Speaking as a 3G M.arch student, the studio culture at Taubman is a home away from home. Having the opportunity to be introduced to the world of Architecture with such a diverse background of individuals curates a specific bond for this cohort at Taubman. With the extra time, fruitful relationships are formed beyond the studio, providing opportunities to learn from one another and become more versatile within the field of architecture. It’s been an honor to grow alongside like-minded visionaries, exploring the building blocks of becoming a successful architect.

Describe your experience with faculty and professional staff during your time at Taubman?
With less than a year at Taubman, I feel my dedication and dreams for the future of architecture are emulated by all faculty through a continuous commitment to the student body and personal architectural research and planning. I believe our faculty hopes to help curate an environment where we can come and bring our perspectives and our interests to contribute to the design world and our design education. A phrase constantly shared by our Chair of Architecture, McClain Clutter sums up our faculty’s perspectives on our future students: “Come as you are.”

How has Taubman’s career and professional development support prepared you for a successful career in your chosen field?
From my first visit, Taubman’s career and professional development support presence have shown its commitment to its students. We, as students, are constantly informed of opportunities on campus and with alumni of all sorts. We are continuously provided opportunities to engage with alumni and professionals regarding job fairs, portfolio reviews, and mentorship programs. The Career and professional development support at Taubman has made themselves as accessible as possible to their students as you can find. They are always open for pop-in chats and guidance on making your next steps as clear as possible.

What benefits have you experienced being part of the University of Michigan?
Being part of the University of Michigan has provided a network of alumni and a community constantly proud to be engaged with our members of campus beyond the university. I find myself engaged even back at home and across various states with Taubman alumni or community members. Specifically, as a Taubman student, I’ve benefited from the ability to explore my passion to the fullest degree, with top-of-the-line facilities and technology to explore personal research interests while receiving my educational experience.

What do you like most about being part of the Ann Arbor community?
Ann Arbor has a young and diverse community beyond its hub for education and innovation. Opportunities across the campus and city-wide are immense, with ongoing events around sports, art, and culture influx every season. Coming from a completely different area, it was nice to enjoy a community where you can slow down and enjoy what’s around you.

What advice would you give prospective students as they consider Taubman College?
As a prospective student, I highly encourage you to visit Taubman any way you can. Firsthand, to walk the halls and see the life of Taubman in action is an experience in itself. Taubman is always looking to provide prospective students with the opportunities of visiting campus and to open an avenue for dialogue with faculty and current students; please feel encouraged to reach out!

Now, as a Taubman student, I encourage you, with your architectural education, to be bold, dream big, and when you feel as if you’ve dreamt big enough, reach just a bit farther. Explore what draws you to study architecture, and use this as an opportunity to explore your perspectives and be open to many.

What are your plans after graduation?
Currently, I hope to continue expanding my educational realm with the addition of a dual concentration for a Master of Architecture and Urban Design. I am fascinated by and desire to explore the intersectionality of nature, biology, technology, and the built environment. I believe architecture is more than cities and buildings but the opportunity, as a designer, to use our built environment to pursue solutions to our social, economic, and political matters. My goal, upon licensure, is to translate this philosophy of design into my own future architectural practice and research, where nature and culture unite through architectural representation on various architectural and design scales.

Additional advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective students?
To prospective students, the opportunity and emotions involved with the selection process are not always allotted to many who dream of studying Architecture. Take this as an opportunity, enjoy the process, and be present in your selection for your next home. Be keen that your values, dreams, and aspirations can continue to grow with your institution of choice, which will ultimately provide the most fruitful experience.