A. Ruby Nwaebube

Hometown: Jacksonville, FL
Education Background: University of Virginia| Bachelor of Science in Urban & Environmental Planning

How did you get interested in your field?
I developed an interest in architecture and historic preservation because of my family's heritage and my work on design projects that highlighted the hidden gems of Black communities.

What was your background before coming to Penn?
I graduated from the University of Virginia in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Urban & Environmental Planning. After graduating from college, I worked in the City of Baltimore, working in a planning office for a summer, then eventually worked at a non-profit historic preservation organization, Preservation Maryland, co-facilitating the Smart Growth Maryland Program to advocate for better preservation policies within the local, state, and federal level.

Why did you choose Penn?
I picked Penn for its personalized approach to my architecture and preservation goals. The faculty and admissions made me feel seen and supported.

What has been your favorite class so far?
Historic Preservation: Building Pathology, Professor Michael Henry 

Architecture: Construction I, Professor Philip Ryan

What are you learning right now that will help you in the future?
Architecture: Structures I with Professor Richard Farley & Construction I with Professor Philip Ryan

Historic Preservation: Conservation Science with Professor Frank Matero & Building Pathology with Professor Michael Henry

What do you like best about Philadelphia?
I love the art scene, the sports culture, and befriending locals to learn more about Philadelphia.

What kinds of activities and organizations are you involved in?
I am currently the co-president of the Black Graduate and Professional Student Assembly. Also, I am a member of the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students Chapter at Penn.

What are your career ambitions?
As a Nigerian-American woman, I intend to integrate preservation and human-centered designs to (1) build contemporary vernacular African architecture to reflect societal needs, (2) rehabilitate historic Black buildings and neighborhoods, and (3) incorporate climate resilience materials to protect African Diaspora communities from climate change.