Q. What motivated you to choose the field of architecture?
A. I always enjoyed drawing as a child. In the beginning, architecture just seemed like a great way to continue to bring the worlds I wanted to see to life. But as I went away for college and started noticing changes in my neighborhood that no longer reflected the community I grew up in, architecture became a way for me to advocate and represent my community through design.
Q. What type of work are you most interested in?
A. I am interested in implementing solutions that make life easier and more meaningful.
Q. What has been your biggest challenge since obtaining your architecture degree?
A. Balancing idealism with practicality has been the most difficult.
Q. What did you like about architecture school?
A. I loved the freedom to experiment with materials and different tools. The hands-on aspect made me appreciate how design evolves through trial and error.
Q. Any criticisms of the architecture education experience?
A. I wish there was more collaboration with engineers and different types of designers. I went outside of my traditional education to do that by accident and came out with so much knowledge, friendships, and inspiration that bled into my design process.
Q. What are your professional goals?
A. To become a licensed architect and eventually open my own practice.
Q. Who do you consider to be some of your favorite architects?
A. One of my favorite architects would have to be Oscar Niemeyer. I admire his impact on Brazilian architecture.
Q. Do you have a favorite building or city?
A. I love New York City because it feels like a collage of many cultures and experiences. I don’t have a favorite building in particular but I love brownstones and what they mean to to Black community in New York City. I love them in the winter when snow gathers, in the summer when the fire hydrants are open and children are playing, and during block parties when the whole neighborhood comes together. I love their millwork and craftsmanship. Brownstones feel so soulful.
Q. What do you hope to get out of your AIA Brooklyn Chapter membership?
A. I hope for mentorship and community.
