How did you find your current job?
After spending three years in Philadelphia, I felt the need to leave my comfort zone and take on new challenges. New York City, being one of the largest and most exciting testing ground for designers to implement new ideas, seemed to be a good place to start exploring my professional life. I was recommended by our faculty to W Architecture and Landscape Architecture.
What kind of work are you doing?
I’m currently working at a private practice in New York City that does both landscape and architecture. The founder of the office is also a Weitzman alumna. I’ve been mostly involved in built projects ranging from public transit infrastructure, active plazas, complex streetscape, campuses, rooftops, as well as urban waterfronts.
What attracted you to the firm or job?
The wide range of projects and the small size of the firm. The combination has allowed me to work simultaneously on different types of projects in various phases. I enjoy the hands-on involvement in design and direct communications with colleagues, consultants, clients, and community members.
How did your education at the University of Pennsylvania Stuart Weitzman School of Design prepare you for your current tasks?
Penn’s persistence on critical thinking behind every move of the design is crucial to the professional world. Although not a lot of what I do today directly relate to masterplanning, the large-scale thinking and training at Penn helps me keep the bigger picture in mind throughout all scales I work in. The intensive sharpening of representation and communication skills have also been helpful.
Are there specific courses and instructors that influenced you philosophically?
What I appreciate the most about the Weitzman School’s education is the collective impact of all the diverse streams of thinking, aesthetics, and ideas on me. Instead of one “true path” to follow or one “best way” to do things, students at Penn are challenged to take on multiple and often conflicting points of views and values. All of the courses I took at Penn would not have been as beneficial and powerful as they have if they weren’t constantly challenging and complementing each other.
Any top moment(s) of your education here?
Learning new tricks, exchanging ideas, sharing stories, and inspiring each other in the studio on a daily basis.
What’s next?
Five years ago I had never thought I’d be where I am today, so we’ll see where life takes me. In the meantime, I plan to continue accumulating knowledge and experience on realizing ideas through professional practice, and finding a place/role where I can contribute most to a healthier planet.
Are you keeping in touch with others from your class/the Penn community?
Yes, it’s inevitable and irreversible. Once you’re a Weitzman Schooler, there is no escape. Three years after graduation, I find myself working with Penn alumni in our office, teaming up with my classmates on design competitions during weekends, and exchanging secret recipes with our faculty members while continue working with them on research, publications and studio reviews. They (We) are everywhere.
Any words of advice for prospective students?
Spend your time at the Weitzman School like a child would at a park - Always exploring.