Hunter Williams-Landry

Degree: BLArch

Expected Graduation Date: Winter 2022

2021-2022 Scholarship
Dennis Hickok Memorial Scholarship
Lafky Family Scholarship in Landscape Architecture
William Riley “Tex” Matsler Memorial Scholarship in Landscape Architecture

I Am Originally From Charlestown, NH

WHY I CAME TO THE UO AND HOW I CHOSE MY MAJOR
I chose the University of Oregon because I was invested in the idea of engaging with professionals and professors in real-world projects. I was seeking and found a learning experience that would not only hone my skills for landscape design but also feel rewarding in that it is contributing to important research and ideas. For instance, my favorite studio course so far was an advanced design theory studio that focused on redesigning the residential landscape of Vida residences along the McKenzie River who were affected by the Holiday Farm fire in 2020. The designs we created ended up meaning a lot more to them than I realized going into the beginning of that term. The sense of satisfaction I got from helping those folks in the community was overwhelming and reaffirmed my choices that have lead me to the UO.

My high school was really cool in that we had a horticulture, agriculture and technology programs. I took all of the horticulture classes offered in the campus greenhouse. I pursued  creative writing initially out of high school but decided upon landscape architecture because of the gratification I get from working with plants and the natural environment.

UNIQUE QUALITIES I BRING TO MY STUDIES
I originally wanted to pursue a degree in creative writing but I quickly realized that I just enjoy writing, literature and music. The reality of publishing and having my words out to the masses for my source of income overwhelmed and stressed me to the point of considering dropping out. I stuck out that first year of college and transferred to a landscape design degree. I think my previous and continued enthusiasm for poetry, music, fictional and natural science literature contributes to the department and my continued development as a designer.

MY INFLUENTIAL PROFESSORS
I am very glad and feel fortunate that I had Bart Johnson, Professor of Landscpae Architecture, before his retirement. I learned about local ecosystems and overall ecological design from him. Perhaps most importantly, he exposed me to meaningful design pursuits that help people in the short term and might contribute to landscape architecture knowledge in the long term.

MY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
This term I became the outreach coordinator for the UO student chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). This is important to me because when I first transferred to the University of Oregon I has a hard time getting to know people. I am trying to do a good job as the outreach coordinator so that new undergrads can feel involved and not have to feel shy or awkward as I first did when I initially got to UO.

MY GREATEST LEARNING EXPERIENCE AT UO
My first studio review was an eye opener because my previous education at community college was not as rigorous and comprehensive in its studio requirements. I did fine but I had to rely on others for tips and help more than I ever had before, which I found embarrassing at first. It soon became one of my greatest lessons in that everyone needs help sometimes and that nothing is really designed alone, nor should it be.

AFTER GRADUATION
Once I have some design work experience under my belt one of my greatest hopes is to start my own design-build firm. I have an affinity for both hands-on landscape construction and maintenance as well as design communication and graphics. I have a hard time visualizing living my life without at least gardening in my own life. With my own business I would like to implement more sustainable practices which are used in popular architecture practice and be a part of design competitions focused on climate change and engage in solutions that will make the best use of our public land and resources.

YOUR GIFT
Scholarships give me a chance to pursue my education in a more stress-free way knowing that some of my financial aid is covered. As a student who has worked since high school and who is personally paying for my college education, I often feel the pinch of financial stress as I am pursuing my education and career in landscape architecutre. I really appreciate getting help from alumni and their kin to further my goals and enjoy my time at University of Oregon rather than stressing out about money.  I hope because of this I will someday be able to design public spaces and projects that serve a greater purpose than myself.

Thank you so much! I owe you my gratitude for giving me help in pursuing something that I know I enjoy and find fulfillment in. I will try to uphold my end of the bargain by moving on to a blossoming career in landscape architecture where I will give my absolute best effort.