ABOUT ME

Hi, I am Ryan Chien, an architecture student passionate about the intersection of sustainable design methods, urban sociology, and community revitalization. I recently completed my Associate of Applied Science in Architectural Technology at SUNY Orange, graduating Summa Cum Laude as an Honors Program student. This fall, I am taking the next step in my academic journey by transferring to the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) Albert Dorman Honors College to pursue my Bachelor of Architecture.

My design philosophy is rooted in the belief that architecture is fundamentally a tool for social connection. For my Honors Capstone, I conducted interdisciplinary research and developed a comprehensive design proposal focused on the adaptive reuse of abandoned shopping malls into sustainable community centers. I also applied these biophilic design strategies to solve urban crises in the CCCAP National Student Design Competition, where my team developed a comprehensive architectural proposal for youth transitional housing.

In my practice, I strive to balance digital precision with field awareness. I have mastered modern rendering and digital drafting tools, including Autodesk Revit, AutoCAD, and SketchUp. Furthermore, I actively seek experience beyond the classroom. I gained invaluable on-site exposure to large-scale construction through my involvement with the NYC 520 5th Ave Skyscraper Project, where I observed the realities of steel installation and architectural integration. I also continually expand my theoretical framework through professional development, such as completing the HarvardX CitiesX program on urban life and spatial planning.

As a leader on campus, I served as the Chapter President of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and the first-ever PR Officer for the Student Senate. These roles sharpened my ability to advocate for student voices, direct service initiatives, and collaborate with administration. My commitment to both the studio and the campus community recently culminated in receiving the USA Today PTK All-New York Academic Award and the SUNY Orange Outstanding Scholastic Achievement Award.

An international student fluent in English, Taiwanese, and Mandarin, I bring a global perspective shaped by my travels across Asia, the Middle East, and the Caribbean. My ultimate goal is to continue creating innovative, restorative designs that actively heal urban spaces and connect people to their environments.