Desteny Corral
Degree: BArch, Minor in Interior Architecture and Environmental Studies
Expected Graduation Date: Spring 2023
2022-2023 Scholarship
Baird Family Scholarship
I Am Originally From Redondo Beach, CA
WHY I CAME TO THE UO AND HOW I CHOSE MY MAJOR
I chose the College of Design at the University of Oregon for their focus on sustainable design. Coming from Los Angeles and neighboring schools like SCI-ARC, I wasn’t interested in an architecture program that weren’t teaching and considering design that strives towards a sustainable future. Being able to attend a college that is immersed in nature is inspiring for my future as an architect.
I chose my major while in community college. Initially I wanted to be an environmental engineer, but as I continued to take courses, I realized my intuitive inclination towards design. I know that I’m meant to be a designer,and being able to design through an environmentally conscious perspective is what makes me excited to be an architecture student.
UNIQUE QUALITIES I BRING TO MY STUDIES
Before UO, I grew up in Los Angeles, where the city’s diverse community and urban landscape has helped to shape and influence my career convictions. Growing up in a concrete jungle where my backyard was paved asphalt with a sliver of grass has stuck with me as I aim to use urban design that incorporates sustainable design, building materials, and vital green spaces. Additionally, Los Angeles has opened my eyes to the necessity of cultural diversity and the strength it brings to a community.
MY INFLUENTIAL PROFESSORS
I’ve had a couple influential professors. Philip Speranza helped open the possibilities of Computational Design and the multitude of design methodologies to think outside the box. Through computational Design I hope to blend new technology aided design with earthy, sustainable design and materials to help bridge the gap between earth and new age technology. Additionally, Robert Clarke had a transformative influence on how my own views and implications from ingrained westernization customs can affect the urban landscape and the multiple cultures that inhabit a community. Through his course on spatial justice design, I can begin to untangle long standing prejudices to design buildings, public and urban spaces that foster inclusivity and offer a platform for many cultures to feel uplifted and empowered.
MY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
I volunteer at Hendricks Park by helping to reduce invasive species and aiding the park in maintenance and beautification. Volunteering here has opened my eyes to the impact a small park can have on a community as well as the fragility of an ecosystem and the many ways in which we can gradually care for our ecosystem. Additionally, I volunteer for the local Archaeology Channel doing their social media. Through this volunteership, I’ve been able to continue learning and being shaped by cultures around the world.
MY GREATEST LEARNING EXPERIENCE AT UO
My greatest learrning experience by far has been Robert Clarke’s design studio focused on Spatial Justice. This class has forever changed how I perceive my surroundings and challenged my predefined views on how westernization is ingrained in society and is something I wouldn’t think twice about until I was met with the strong resistance of Robert Clarke. Something I am forever grateful for as a member of my community and as a designer.
AFTER GRADUATION
After I graduate from the College of Design, I will not work for a company, firm, or group of individuals that is not willing to be constantly challenged by its peers, supporters, current events, and modes of new information. I seek to work with people who are constantly willing to grow because that’s the least we as designers can do in a world that is ever changing. I aim to do architecture, however at the least I am a designer and my education at the College of Design has given me the tools to be a versatile and multifaceted asset.
YOUR GIFT
This scholarship is important for me to continue and finish my education at the University of Oregon. As someone who doesn’t come from a wealthy background and is paying for my own tuition, this scholarship enables me to spend more of my time designing and doing what I love without financial stress.
I am beyond grateful for your contribution towards my education and for the many students you’ve financially supported in the past and for years to come. Scholarships make an impact for students by commemorating hard work, empowering students towards achievements, and easing financial hardships. Thank you.