Selina Chuan-Zou

Hometown: Changsha, CHINA
Education Background: Tongji University – Architecture Pilot Class, Historic Preservation (Bachelor of Engineering)

How did you get interested in your field?
When I entered the architecture department, Notre-Dame de Paris was engulfed in flames. At that moment, I felt that architecture has its own destiny amidst historical changes, and those distant stones, like people, were also struggling against the weight of history. This experience sparked a deep interest in architectural preservation. The following year, I traveled to various historical sites across China, including magnificent temples, pagodas, and traditional Chinese gardens, which left a profound impression on me. These experiences made me realize that creating new architecture is only one aspect of Architecture; the preservation and reflection on old buildings is another important part.

What was your background prior to coming to Penn?
Before coming to the University of Pennsylvania, I studied architecture at Tongji University, where I focused on Historic Preservation. I was also a member of the Architecture Workshop program, which involved interdisciplinary studies in landscape, city planning, and architecture. Prior to that, I worked for a period at the World Heritage Institute of Training and Research for the Asia and the Pacific Region (WHITRAP), as well as at an architectural design firm in China.

Why did you choose Penn?
Penn is the cradle of the first generation of Chinese architects, who later became the pioneering architects, theorists, and historians. Among them was Lin Huiyin, the first female architect in China, who paved the way for the study of architectural history and preservation in China. I admire these first-generation architects, which is why I chose to come to Penn.

What has been your favorite class so far?
I enjoy every class.

What are you learning right now that will help you in the future?
I am currently taking a course on Arch’s Structures, which is an elective. This will greatly assist me in obtaining my engineering license in the future. Additionally, I am studying in the Conservation Lab, which helps me understand building materials.

What do you like best about Philadelphia?
What I love most about Philadelphia is its history; it was the first capital of the United States and is home to many historic sites. Additionally, I appreciate that it is a conveniently located city with accessible public transportation, and it's very close to Washington, D.C., and New York City. This means I can visit museums in those cities on the weekends.

What kinds of activities and/or organizations are you involved in?
I am currently working part-time as a Research Assistant at the Center for Architectural Conservation at the University of Pennsylvania.

What are your career ambitions?
I hope to become a more professional conservationist, while also eager to continue my work as an architect. The role of a conservationist will deepen my understanding of history and building materials, while being an architect makes me more creative. Not just for a single nation, I aspire to contribute my expertise to the preservation of world heritage.