Programs
Master of Architecture
Master of Urban and Regional Planning


CONNECT

/ Recent Taubman Graduate

Joshua Powell

“The Career Fairs that they host have been fundamental to building my confidence both as an architecture student and as a professional speaker in my future career in this field!”

Hometown
Detroit, MI, United States

Current Location
Ann Arbor, MI, United States

Degree Program(s)
M.Arch 2G, M.U.R.P.

Graduation Date
May 2023

Academic Areas of Interest
Neighborhood-based Urban Planning and Community Empowerment through Architecture

Hobbies or interests outside of academia
Playing Video Games, holding Conversations and Long Walks

Why did you choose Taubman College as the right program for you?
I chose Taubman College because Taubman has always been my dream school and it is close to where I would like to practice both Urban Planning and Architecture; in the city of Detroit.

What is special or excites you about the Taubman community?
I think the willingness of faculty and staff to openly help students at any given time is what makes the College especially welcoming and exceptional. I also enjoy the various visits and lectures from outside architects and planners!

If applicable, tell us about studio culture – what is inspiring or innovative or unique?
Studio culture is quite incredible here! Once you truly get to know all the individuals in your studio, it really does begin to feel like a second family! We all work as a team and bounce ideas off one another, making our resulting projects incredible by final review!

Describe your experience with faculty and professional staff during your time at Taubman?
The faculty and staff are, in my opinion, quite exceptional! They are forever willing to help, and they are very good when it comes to giving students guidance and helping them to achieve their full potential! I really appreciate them!

How has Taubman’s career and professional development support prepared you for a successful career in your chosen field?
The Career Fairs that they host have been fundamental to building my confidence both as an architecture student and as a professional speaker in my future career in this field!

What benefits have you experienced being part of the University of Michigan?
As a student of the University, I have been exposed to a plethora of different opportunities and internships that have helped to propel me further in the world of true professional practice in both architecture and urban planning!

What do you like most about being part of the Ann Arbor community?
The walkability has to be one of the greatest parts. The people are also very friendly, and I never feel lost as I travel around the campus.

What advice would you give prospective students as they consider Taubman College?
TALK TO OTHER STUDENTS AND TALK TO YOUR INSTRUCTORS! You can learn so much from all of these individuals that will help you to both educate yourself about the world and learn how to make your projects better!

What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to practice for a few years in both the role of an Urban Planner and Architect in order to take the licensing exams for both! Once this is done, I plan to open my own practice alongside my twin brother, who is a Landscape Architect!

Additional advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective students?
Be bold and be willing to learn new things from your community! You can learn so much from the people around you, and what you learn might just change your trajectory in life!