Meet Lauren
Something for Everyone
Why would anyone NOT want to go to school here? The campus is beautiful, there are so many resources available to the students, and you have easy access to one of the greatest cities in the world - Austin! Personally, I chose UT because I knew that no matter what major I ended up in, I would get a solid education. I also knew that UT was big enough that anything I wanted to do, any club I wanted to join, would be possible – there is something for everyone here.
I Can't Imagine Doing Anything Else
When I applied to the University while in high school, I really wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but I picked architecture because it combined my two favorite subjects: art and science. I was so nervous when I got accepted to the School of Architecture, but now I can’t imagine doing anything else with my life!
Lauren's advice
Start studying early
Start early! A general rule in the School of Architecture: if you think it will take you three hours, multiply that by four…and that’s how long it will really take you. Oh… and use the Undergraduate Writing Center! I think this is one of the most fantastic resources on campus. The papers I take there are improved significantly.
Do the things you love
Do the things you love - join clubs, teams, organizations, and never forget to smile! Friends will follow!
The dorm experience
I lived in an off campus dorm my freshman year and would not give up the dorm experience for anything. I met wonderful people who are still my friends to this day – some I was even able to visit in London when I studied abroad at the beginning of my senior year. Being thrown together with people from all different backgrounds, from locations all around the world, and with endless interests is a fantastic way to learn more about yourself. Living off campus, I wasn’t as informed about the events that took place on campus, but I did attend 40 Acres Fest, I cheered at the HEX Rally, and I definitely stormed the streets when Texas beat OSU back in 2005!
Becoming So Involved
I never expected to become so involved in my school. When I joined the School of Architecture everyone told me how much work I’d be doing and how much time I’d be spending working in studio; I never thought I’d be in multiple organizations and volunteering as much as I am. Being involved in the AIAS and the Undergraduate Architecture Student Council has enabled me to meet wonderful faculty I never would have otherwise, to network for my future career, and has made it easier for me to connect with students older and younger than I.
Understanding Other Cultures
This past semester I had the opportunity to study abroad in Italy for four months. I traveled with other students from the School of Architecture and was taught by three UT professors. I learned a lot about the structure and organization of Italian cities and I learned a little Italian. I was even able to travel on my own to Greece, England, Ireland, and Spain. I would highly encourage anyone considering a study abroad program to do it! It’s hard work and good fun, and the understanding you gain of other cultures is priceless!
Interacting with Other Students
In the School of Architecture, interacting with other students is incredibly beneficial. Not only can you get advice about how to print or set up a laser cutter file, but you can also look at each other’s projects, something that has never failed to be inspirational to me. Not to mention that the faculty and staff at the School of Architecture are some of the most accessible on campus!
Lauren's Favorites
Study location off campus
Epoch Coffee off of North Loop. It’s eclectic without being pretentious and you can buy the most amazing pizza by the slice. Plus, it’s quiet and has a variety of seating from big comfy chairs to barstools to chairs and tables – perfect for anyone!
Books
Right now my favorite book is The Devil in the White City. It’s a non-fiction book about the architects of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. It’s like the best murder mystery you’ve ever read, but it’s all true! I’m also a sucker for the Twilight series.
Thing about Austin
This year I decided to stay in Austin and attend South by Southwest. I didn’t buy a wristband but still was able to attend tons of free shows. South by Southwest is really everything great about Austin, great music everywhere and everyone wants to be your friend. Austin is full of festivals from the ACL Music Festival and SXSW to the Crawfish Festival! Take advantage of them! Go and have fun!
Want to Contact Lauren?
Send Lauren an e-mail at lbro@mail.utexas.edu