Helen Brooks

“What stands out to me about Taubman is the strong studio culture. Whether projects are individual or group-based, there is a constant spirit of collaboration, with peers who push each other’s thinking and with instructors who guide us toward deeper exploration.”

Academic Areas of Interest
Historic Preservation, Adaptive Reuse, Indigenous Technologies, Architectural History

Hobbies or interests outside of academia
Hiking, Kayaking, Thrifting, Volleyball, Reading

Why did you choose Taubman College as the right program for you?
I chose Taubman College because it offers the balance I’m looking for between design rigor, research opportunities, and real-world engagement. The program’s emphasis on studio culture creates an environment where you can learn and grow as a designer through interacting with faculty across the college as well as your peers. When choosing a college, I wanted a program that challenges me creatively while preparing me for licensure and a career that contributes to communities in meaningful ways, and Taubman aligns with that vision.

What is special or excites you about the Taubman community?
What excites me most about the Taubman community is the ability to collaborate with faculty across the college and take advantage of the research culture that defines the University of Michigan. Taubman encourages students to pursue questions of any scale, whether they grow out of a small personal interest or connect to larger global issues, and provides both the faculty expertise and resources to make those explorations possible. The breadth of perspectives within the college means I won’t be limited to one path or way of thinking; instead, I’ll be able to test ideas, learn from different disciplines, and build projects that reflect a range of approaches. That openness to inquiry and collaboration is what makes the community so compelling to me.

If applicable, tell us about studio culture – what is inspiring or innovative or unique?
What stands out to me about Taubman is the strong studio culture. Whether projects are individual or group-based, there is a constant spirit of collaboration, with peers who push each other’s thinking and with instructors who guide us toward deeper exploration. The ballot system for studios is especially inspiring because it empowers students to align their work with professors whose perspectives resonate with their own interests. What I find most unique is how this culture fosters empathy: by being directly exposed to the ideas, struggles, and breakthroughs of others, we learn not only to refine our own design thinking but also to value the perspectives of those around us.

Describe your experience with faculty and professional staff during your time at Taubman?
I have had great experiences with both faculty and professional staff at Taubman. Each semester brings new classes and opportunities to connect with faculty in meaningful ways, whether through studios, seminars, or collaborative research. The school fosters an environment where students are encouraged to explore their interests deeply, often through faculty-led initiatives like Climate Futures that bridge the classroom, the school, and the broader community.

Just as impactful has been the support of the professional staff. The professional development office, in particular, plays a vital role in preparing students for the field by organizing office tours, hosting portfolio and resume reviews, and opening doors to experiences that strengthen our professional readiness. Their work complements the academic side of Taubman, ensuring that students leave not only with strong design skills but also with the tools and connections to thrive in practice. Together, the faculty and staff create a community where students feel both challenged and supported as they shape their future paths.

How has Taubman’s career and professional development support prepared you for a successful career in your chosen field?
Taubman’s career and professional development support has been instrumental in preparing me for my future in architecture. I found my current job directly through the resources offered by the school, including résumé and portfolio review sessions that helped me strengthen my materials and present my work more effectively. I also benefited from the Taubman College Career Network, which gave me a platform to connect with architects in the community and expand my professional circle, one of which who offered me a job after graduation. In addition, the school’s career fairs provide invaluable opportunities to meet potential employers and learn about different practice settings. Together, these tools have not only opened doors but also given me the confidence and skills to navigate the professional world and build a career aligned with my goals.

What benefits have you experienced being part of the University of Michigan?
Being part of the University of Michigan has been rewarding both within Taubman College and in the broader Ann Arbor community. The architecture school fosters a strong sense of community, while the city itself offers countless opportunities to engage with culture, events, and people. What I have valued most, though, are the relationships and exposure to the thinkers of my generation. Collaborating with peers who bring diverse perspectives has challenged me to grow and has made me a stronger designer than when I began. At Michigan, you leave not only with more knowledge but also as a more well-rounded person, shaped by the people and experiences that define this community.

What do you like most about being part of the Ann Arbor community?
What I like most about being part of the Ann Arbor community is the variety of experiences it offers. It’s a vibrant place that blends nature, city life, and a strong sense of community. There’s always something to do outdoors, whether it’s kayaking or tubing on the Huron River, or walking through the Arboretum. The city itself has so much character, from unique spots like Nickels Arcade, RoosRoast, and Pinball Pete’s to the many restaurants where you can grab a classic Zingermann’s or Maize and Blue Deli sandwich, or a late-night bite at Fleetwood. Ann Arbor also has a rich cultural scene with historic theaters, concerts, and the art fairs that bring the whole community together. What makes it special is that there’s always something to explore, and in the process you feel connected to the people and energy of the city.

What advice would you give prospective students as they consider Taubman College?
My advice to prospective students is simple: enjoy it, because it goes fast. You only have so much time here, and it’s important to take full advantage of everything Taubman has to offer. That means diving into studios, connecting with faculty, saying yes to opportunities outside the classroom, and engaging with your peers. The more you put into the experience, the more you’ll grow, not just as a designer, but as a person.

What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in adaptive reuse and historic preservation, focusing on projects that balance design innovation with respect for existing structures and cultural heritage. I also intend to complete the steps toward licensure, so I can take on greater responsibility within the profession and contribute meaningfully to the future of the built environment.

Additional advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective students?
Don’t forget to take care of yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in the pace of studio and classes, but your best work will come when you’re well-rested and healthy. Be the best student you can be, but remember that means balancing your academic goals with caring for your physical and mental well-being.