Name:Clio Macrakis Hometown: Cambridge, MA Program: Masters of Landscape Architecture I
Question 1: What is your best Weitzman memory? OR Why did you choose Weitzman?
I learn just as much about design and representation from my peers as from courses. As someone without a previous design background, a large class size has let me see my peers’ styles and develop my own through skill-building and advice from peers and professors. Our cohort is very supportive of each other and our professors truly care about our personal development through the program.
Question 2: One tip to help make the transition into grad school?
I like to get to know my neighborhood when I move to a new city. It’s easy to get caught up with work in studio, but I think it’s important to get to know neighbors, local stores and restaurants, and events in the city. Philadelphia is a busy city with a bit of everything and it’s worth getting to know it when you take breaks from schoolwork.
Question 3: Share your favorite project from Weitzman.
“Weather Dwellers and Material Archive” explored climate risk in Staten Island and the opportunities for residents to increase their awareness of natural phenomena and maintain a personal connection with the land following an extreme storm. I was able to experiment with forms of representation – plans, sections, collages, and models – to build a project through archival and site research. Catherine Seavitt was my 601 studio critic, and 700-level student Shubhra supported the design process as our TA.
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