Before studying architecture, I was deeply involved in creative pursuits through dance, which became my passion. However, I stumbled upon architecture almost by accident, choosing it out of convenience when applying to colleges. Initially, balancing dance and architecture was challenging, with architecture feeling like a chore. But over time, I found myself increasingly drawn to it, realizing I had discovered a new passion.
My third-year architecture studios at Cal Poly Pomona were pivotal, revealing the complexity and responsibilities of the field. I learned the importance of maintaining design integrity while balancing site conditions, building organization, and systems. My design process involves constantly zooming in and out of scale, using drawings, models, and diagrams as tools for exploration rather than final solutions. Using these tools, I approach project confines with embrace rather than distain, grounding them in the bigger picture while leaving room for exploration.
Professionally, I interned at Schneider Luescher and currently work as an Associate at ododo office, contributing to residential projects and using large-scale models and renders to communicate designs. I hold a Bachelor of Architecture from Cal Poly Pomona, graduating Summa Cum Laude, and studied abroad in Copenhagen, where I deepened my understanding of democratic urban design and sustainability.
I am honored to be a 2024 Metropolis Future 100 awardee, recognized for my leadership and advocacy for equity in architecture. I also received the Jack and Marilyn Zuber Remembrance Award for addressing housing challenges and the AIA Medal for Academic Excellence as the top architecture student at Cal Poly Pomona.
ododo office, Los Angeles, CA, US, Associate
-Contributed to the design and development of residential projects in Los Angeles, California
-Produced and compiled visualizations and drawings for client presentations
-Prepared detailed schematic design and design development sets
Schneider Luescher, Los Angeles, CA, US, Intern
-Actively contributed to the design process for overall architectural concepts, interior architecture, and materiality for projects in Los Angeles, California and Paris, France
-Specialized in making large 1/2” = 1’0” scale models for various residential and commercial projects as a design tool to investigate materials, structure, and MEP, enhancing communication between clients, contractors, and consultants
-Made key contributions to the renovation of a classic Parisian apartment by utilizing interior renders to effectively communicate design concepts between the architects of record and the client
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, Pomona, CA, US, BArch, Bachelor of Architecture Program
At Cal Poly Pomona, I pursued a Bachelor of Architecture degree through a five-year curriculum focused on a set of comprehensive design studios. The program's core structure included a three-year foundational studio sequence, followed by an academic year studying abroad, a topic studio, and a two-semester senior project. Throughout my studies, I engaged in a wide array of lecture courses that provided in-depth knowledge in Architecture Theory and History, Environmental Controls, Professional Practice, Programming, Building Technology, Structures, Codes, and Digital Design Methods. These courses were closely integrated with the studio sequence, allowing me to apply theoretical and technical concepts directly to my design projects, refining my skills in both creative and practical aspects of architecture.
Danish Institute for Study Abroad (DIS), Copenhagen, DK, Architecture & Design Study Abroad Program
During my time at the Danish Institute of Study Abroad, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in Scandinavian design philosophies, which blend rich traditions with forward-thinking, contemporary practices. This experience allowed me to explore democratic urban design while fostering a better understanding of what it means to aggressively integrate sustainability into real-world practice. I gained valuable insights into how architecture can engage with the city and create transformative spaces that prioritize environmental responsibility. Additionally, I was able to learn from leading architects and designers, experiencing their innovative approaches firsthand while developing my own projects.
AIA Medal for Academic Excellence, Award
Awarded as the top graduating student with a Bachelor of Architecture for the class of 2024, Cal Poly Pomona B.Arch.
Jack and Marilyn Zuber Remembrance Award, Award
Received $5,000 merit award for housing design studio project that addressed real-world methods of construction with a focus on the housing crisis in Los Angeles.
