The Taubman community encapsulates a breadth of diverse individuals from various backgrounds with diverse ideas, which, combined with the vibrant, interdisciplinary, and positive professional culture, facilitates fresh approaches to using architecture and urban design concepts.
Hometown
Willow Springs, IL, United States
Degree Program(s)
M.Arch 2G
M.U.D.
Graduation Date
May 2023
Academic Areas of Interest
Digital Fabrication, Urban Design, Anthropology, Architecture, Sociology, Sustainability
Hobbies or interests outside of academia
Musical Theater, Acoustic Guitar, Biking
Why did you choose Taubman College as the right program for you?
I chose Taubman College because it is highly ranked; has an extensive array of prestigious faculty, graduate certification programs, and fantastic facilities; offers emphases in digital fabrication, sustainability, and research; and has a vibrant, interdisciplinary, and positive professional culture.
What is special or excites you about the Taubman community?
The Taubman community encapsulates a breadth of diverse individuals from various backgrounds with diverse ideas, which, combined with the vibrant, interdisciplinary, and positive professional culture, facilitates fresh approaches to using architecture and urban design concepts.
If applicable, tell us about studio culture- what is inspiring or innovative or unique?
The studio culture is unique because Taubman has the longest continuous studio space in the world. Studio culture is embedded in all aspects of the curriculum. During our time at the studio, I have made several positive memories that will last a lifetime.
Describe your experience with faculty and professional staff during your time at Taubman?
During my time at Taubman, I have worked with several faculty members in a professional capacity as a research assistant and a graduate student instructor. I learned greatly from these experiences. Further, every professor is willing to meet after class to discuss career opportunities, ongoing projects, or potential research projects. A ‘people helping people’ become better future professionals theme is abundant.
How has Taubman’s career and professional development support prepared you for a successful career in your chosen field?
The career and professional development team has supported me in my desired career path. The team has a series of career workshops that are hosted every few months to keep students on a positive trajectory. I have met with several members of the team to review my resume and discuss potential career opportunities. In addition, I have attended several career fairs, met prospective employers interested in recruiting Taubman students, and obtained summer internship jobs and externship positions.
What benefits have you experienced being part of the University of Michigan?
The thesis program at Taubman College is distinctive and robust. I had the amazing opportunity to work with Anya Sirota, my thesis advisor. Anya was a great mentor to positively and critically challenge my design thinking. Throughout the thesis program, I developed and furthered several skills in preparing my selected project, such as: creating an extensive lexicon through which to discuss projects and research methodologies.
What do you like most about being part of the Ann Arbor community?
Ann Arbor is a beautiful city that is situated comfortably near a larger major city in Detroit. Ann Arbor has an extensive music and art scene with its museums and theaters, plus the opportunity to enjoy the University of Michigan’s Big 10 sports events.
What advice would you give prospective students as they consider Taubman College?
Take a moment to ask yourself: why you do what you do? Find and understand what/why you want to achieve through the curriculum at the graduate level. I highly recommend looking through the university’s course catalog and the list of professors. This will give you an idea of potential interests and courses offered at the school. See if these align with your interests.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to graduate in 2023 with both a Master of Architecture and Master of Urban Design degree.. I hope to attain a position with a prominent firm and work towards completing the licensure requirements to become a fully licensed Architect. Eventually, I hope to establish my own architecture and urban design research firm.
Additional advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective students?
Have conversations with every person you meet at Taubman and take advantage of every opportunity that is offered. College time goes by quickly, and you want to make sure you do not regret any choices or decisions which were missed opportunities. Be open to learning new things from students and faculty! Taubman pushes you to think critically and constructively every day!