Kraig Sims II

“What is unique about the studio culture is the push towards collectivization in the educational experience through specialized student studio spaces, focused academic initiatives, and wonderful extracurricular programs. That push to me is quite innovative as it allows students to experience the realities of these design decisions in a very intimate and impactful way–further strengthening the relationship between theory and practice.”

Hometown
Southfield, MI

Degree Program(s)
M.Arch 3G, M.S.

Expected Graduation Date
December 2025

Academic Areas of Interest
Architecture, digital and material technologies

Hobbies or interests outside of academia
Coding, art, reading

Why did you choose Taubman College as the right program for you?
I initially chose this school as the right program for me because of my status as an in-state resident. The resources that this program has in terms of equipment, facilities, and the alumni network were great incentives for me to apply.

What is special or excites you about the Taubman community?
What is special to me about this community is the diversity in skill sets, educational and cultural backgrounds, and levels of experience each student has in this program. Over the semesters, you really get to see those unique qualities that each student possesses shine bright in the work that they produce.

What excites me about the community at this school is the level of passion, detail, and rigor that is exhibited in much of the work produced here.

If applicable, tell us about studio culture – what is inspiring or innovative or unique?
What is unique about the studio culture is the push towards collectivization in the educational experience through specialized student studio spaces, focused academic initiatives, and wonderful extracurricular programs. That push to me is quite innovative as it allows students to experience the realities of these design decisions in a very intimate and impactful way–further strengthening the relationship between theory and practice.

Describe your experience with faculty and professional staff during your time at Taubman?
The experience with faculty and professional staff during my time at the school has been nothing short of excellent. From providing feedback regarding portfolios or coursework, to professional advice–the openness to share their knowledge and experiences has been an aspect of my time here that I cherish deeply.

How has Taubman’s career and professional development support prepared you for a successful career in your chosen field?
The career and professional development support has been absolutely amazing. I have never experienced a career team that works so hard and cares about the success of their students so much. Lou and Shane have done an amazing job in preparing students for many of the eventualities of navigating and thriving in a professional setting. From targeted skill-building workshops, to portfolio reviews and handouts–I have never felt as though I was deficient in my own professional development here.

What benefits have you experienced being part of the University of Michigan?
The benefits that I have experienced by being part of the University of Michigan include access to the alumni network, lasting friendships, and unique skills that I can continue to develop beyond this program.

What do you like most about being part of the Ann Arbor community?
Although I am a commuter student now, I did live in Ann Arbor as an undergrad. What I enjoyed most about the Ann Arbor community would be their investment into maintaining the parks, nature paths, and other green areas within the city. As a student, it provided a respite from studio to unwind and rest.

What advice would you give prospective students as they consider Taubman College?
One bit of advice would be to have some sort of underlying focus (however small or ill-defined) which will serve to guide the work you produce, the classes you take, and the people you network with. If you understand where your interests are earlier in this program, it opens way more doors, allows you to develop targeted skills, and is a much more effective usage of time.

Also, I would say to ask the faculty lots of questions and befriend outgoing cohorts; you’ll learn a lot of time-saving and enlightening tips that way.

What are your plans after graduation?
My plan is to attain my architectural license and begin my professional career.

Additional advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective students?
Don’t overthink it. Take care of yourself wherever you go. Keep an open mind. Secure your parking pass early.