It wasn’t until I was met with the enchanting structures of New Orleans that I knew my mind was compelled by architecture. I was in awe walking past every building, their daunting dramatic structures, with each facade a unique welcome, intricate filigree lining the balconies, and ornate corbels supporting each roof. It felt honorable to experience a place with such rich history and culture displayed through its architecture. This experience sparked my passion for architecture as I aspire to design impactful structures that cause one to resonate with their surroundings, as I did with New Orleans. This interest did not fade with time and if anything only grew stronger. Upon researching various architecture programs, the University of Oregon immediately caught my eye, and it was not just a result of the bright green and yellow colors that envelop the website. The program’s focus on the design goals of each student, whether they be environmental, social, or cultural is important to me because I believe it is necessary to express individuality through design. I admire the program’s focus on innovative design, as with the current challenges facing society, whether they are environmental, political, or economic, innovation is more critical now than ever. As a community, we can collaborate to develop creative solutions that combat these issues. All change has occurred by taking on creative attempts at problem-solving. Innovation: The power to see things differently. For as long as I can remember I have been an innovator. From age six I was finding a new way to stack blocks to build a tower that won't collapse, and now I am creating architectural solutions to combat environmental issues in my spare time. Innovation is in my blood, running through my veins, each of which contains the answer to a new problem. To be an architect is to be an innovator. The primary attributes of an innovator are creativity, critical-thinking skills, and passion for change. I have recently come to recognize that these are some of the most profound traits that shape my identity. My creativity is enhanced through my interest in the arts, ranging from studio art, to the culinary arts, and even music. My diverse array of interests outlines my creative perspective as I enjoy partaking in activities that allow me to challenge my mind. Aiding in my innovative abilities, my optimistic outlook, when faced with setbacks, allows me to focus solely on the solution rather than dwell in failure. The power to innovate is the power to change. I plan to implement more sustainable practices in the architecture field and contribute to the restoration of our environment. Innovation resonates with me because it allows me to take action on the issues I am passionate about.

From the ripe age of 9 years old, my first day of elementary school, I looked around as I observed all the uniform characteristics of the “popular” girls. In my young mind I believed that if I were to adopt their traits, I too would be a part of their group, which at the time was my most urgent priority. Fast forward 5 years to my freshman year of highschool where I had no friends attending the same school as me, a lone tree in a vast plain, I was tempted to fall into the trap of putting on and act and pretending to be someone I’m not, in order to achieve “popularity.” However, something clicked in my mind and I, in fact, exhibited the opposite behavior, acting as my complete, weird, funny, and kind self. Discovering my sense of self and individual identity brought me to find the best friends I could possibly have, who excepted me for who I am. Learning to express my identity has played a significant role in my quality of life as I am able to focus my attention to true goals and be content with my life.