How have you grown as a developing professional within your field or fields of interest in the past year? What contributed to this growth? What strengths have you continued to build, and what areas would you like to develop further over the upcoming year?

In the past year, I have experienced a lot of growth as a developing professional through my first two architecture internships. My first one at a small, tight-knit firm, and the other at a large multidisciplinary practice. Both environments challenged me in different ways and strengthened my communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and overall professionalism. 

At the small firm, Keiser Design Group, I learned the value of direct communication and my own accountability. Since the team was small, every task I completed had an impact on the progress of the project. I frequently communicated with project leads which helped me to articulate design ideas and ask important questions. I gained confidence in navigating client conversations and making early-stage design decisions. 

My internship at the larger firm, KZF Design, expanded my collaborative skills in a different way. Working on multiple projects simultaneously taught me how to coordinate effectively, manage my time, and adapt to different working styles. I became much more comfortable contributing to projects with a large team, sharing progress, and integrating feedback. I enjoyed seeing how a large company coordinates with one another. This also gave me exposure to different project types and allowed me the chance to learn about my interests within the design world. 

Between both internships, I had the opportunity to build my strengths. I became more confident using Revit, Rhino, and SketchUp. I also developed a better sense of professionalism through managing deadlines, being prepared, and having a good outlook. I want to continue developing my leadership skills through guiding meetings or taking initiatives. I also hope to strengthen my knowledge in building systems and how the construction side works.

Overall, my internships this past year have given me a clear understanding of the professional side of architecture and has helped me to understand what I want to learn from my next internship. 

In what ways did you personally grow this year? How did you demonstrate or rebuild the resilience needed to move forward? How will you utilize resources and your support network to hold yourself accountable in continuing this growth?

As I reflect on this past year, I can truly say it has taught me so much. It was my first year of college, and the growth I've experienced has been profound. I've taken steps outside of my comfort zone, pushed myself academically, and learned a great deal about independence and how to balance my personal and academic life. In doing so, I've developed a deeper sense of self, rebuilt and strengthened important relationships, and cultivated resilience that will help me navigate future challenges. 

One of the significant areas of growth for me has been learning to step outside of my comfort zone. College, with its new people, challenges, and experiences, demanded that I confront many of my normal fears. Making new friends and building connections was a big part of this. I came to Cincinnati knowing almost no one. Moving to a new environment meant I had to initiate conversations and find people I could relate to. The friendships I've made have been a constant source of support, and they've helped me feel grounded in a new chapter of my life. 

Academically, my growth was just as significant. The transition to college-level courses was challenging in ways I hadn't exactly anticipated. Many of my classes, including studio, were tough. I had even joined the architecture fraternity, Alpha Rho Chi and held the position of secretary. There were moments when I worried if I could keep up with the workload, extracurriculars, friendships, and personal time. I found strength, however, in seeking out help when needed and learning how to prioritize my time better. I realized that resilience isn't about avoiding difficulty but about persevering though it, using the resources around me, and asking for support when necessary. 

Living away from home for the first time also required a major shift in how I approached independence. I had to take on responsibilities that I had previously relied on others to handle for the most part. From managing my own finances to cooking for myself, every aspect of my daily life had become a lesson in self-sufficiency. This new independence has been empowering, but it took some time to get used to. In my first semester, I went on a backpacking trip with the mountaineering club and instead of asking my parents if I could go, I just told them I was going. Although I don't fully feel like an adult, I know that I am moving on from childhood and learning how to do life on my own. 

My resilience has also been strengthened by the process of exploring a new city. Living in an unfamiliar place has expanded my sense of adventure and adaptability. It hasn't been easy to adjust to new surroundings, but learning to navigate Cincy, find my favorite spots, and discovering new activities have helped me to feel more at home. The ability to adapt and find comfort in unfamiliar places has reinforced my resilience and willingness to face new experiences. 

In the year ahead, I know that accountability will be crucial in continuing this growth. I'll continue to rely on the relationships I've built, both with friends and family, as well as the resources on campus to hold myself accountable. I will continue to use my experiences from my first year as a foundation for resilience. The growth I've experienced has laid the groundwork for who I want to become. This year has been about learning how to grow in the face of uncertainty, and I know that with the right mindset and support system, I will continue to move forward with confidence and purpose