As I was growing up, I was always interested in how things work and how they come together to make a cohesive whole. My parents would reminisce about peeking into my room and seeing me in the middle of the room, contemplating an object or pile of wires sitting before me. I loved taking things apart and seeing if I could put them back together (I usually did). My fascination with seeing how various parts merge and collaborate is an important aspect of venturing into architecture. I believe this sentiment is reflected with a quote from Maya Lin: “I loved logic, math, computer programming. I loved systems and logic approaches. And so I just figured architecture is this perfect combination.” During my sophomore year in high school (1994), I was introduced to the ideals that encompass architecture. I was hooked from the beginning, but realization of this took more than a decade. When graduating from high school, I was full of optimistic stupidity. Subsequently, I decided I was too smart to learn anything of consequence in a university setting. For the next fourteen years (or so) I went through multiple professions and learned many valuable skills, such as: working on car electrical systems, directing multiple employees, building websites, creating my own business, and renovating residential homes. After acquiring these skills, I found that one of the main ideas I learned was in direct opposition to my high school graduating thoughts. I learned that I am in fact NOT all-knowing and that a quality education is truly invaluable. Realizing that I didn’t know everything, I began to seriously consider going back to school. I examined many possible fields of study including engineering, business, and physical fitness, but at the top of every list was architecture. I had always been drawn to architecture, and I couldn’t pinpoint the precise reason; but after attending the University of Utah I am able to identify many aspects that attract me. I have a great appreciation for the volume and breadth of knowledge that the professors bring to the U of U. Specifically, I was impressed with Professor Hoffman’s a bility to simplify and improve a project in one fell swoop – I find myself frequently reflecting on his past advisements. I was captivated by Doctor Fischer’s enthusiastic thoughts about architecture and art – I find that I have an interest in architectural history that was almost non-existent before his class. I was enthralled with Professor Ruegemer’s verve for sustainable and walkable cities – he helped me to understand exactly why I am spellbound by downtown Portland. These are but a few examples of my expanded knowledge while attending the U of U, and I am hopeful to continue to work with the likes of Professors Ruegmer, Fischer, and Hoffman in the Master’s Program. I am particularly interested in the U of U’s small school environment and the ability to influence the direction of my own education. I find the availability of the DesignBuildBLUFF program, the accelerated M.Arch, and the various specialty certificates to be quite intriguing. At the end of my education, I hope to be on my way as a future architect that is well-versed on the subjects of design, sustainability, urban design, and new technologies. I believe that the Master of Architecture Program at the University of Utah will be able to help me develop the knowledge and skills required to accomplish these goals. As the next step in my educational and career pursuits, I would be extremely honored to be admitted into the U’s program.
M at t Pat t b e r g a rc h i t e c t u re po r t fo li o