Alan Lai
Degree: MArch
Expected Graduation Date: Summer 2022
Previous Degrees: BS, Physics, Chinese University of Hong Kong
MPhil in Architecture, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
I’m From: Hong Kong, China
Why I Came to the UO and How I Chose My Major
The University of Oregon architecture graduate program provides an ideal climate for me to develop my sustainable design interests, largely because of its outstanding faculty, and its integrated approach to architectural design.
Everyone needs a shelter that provides a sense of security and comfort. Without such a shelter, how can people develop themselves with confidence? A protected and comfortable space is of the utmost importance to humans. Sustainable architecture should strive, in particular, to provide a better built environment for people to mitigate climate change. Therefore, I have chosen sustainable architecture!
Unique Qualities I Bring to My Studies
I am a curious explorer who would like to get to the bottom of the world, especially in the physical world. After getting my physics degree, I worked as a research assistant in the field of sustainable architecture at Chinese University of Hong Kong. During my work, I gained first-hand experience of daylight simulation and experimentation and started to realize the real importance of architectural design to human needs. I think I have brought with me the scientific knowledge and quantitative reasoning to my architectural training.
My Influential Professors
Professor G.Z. Brown is the most influential professor to me. I was thrilled to learn that he was the founder of the UO Energy Studies in Buildings Laboratory (ESBL). Professor Brown’s book, “Sun, Wind and Light Architectural Design Strategies” is my all time favorite and an intuitive one. At ESBL, he gave me a number of good advice on designing better sustainable buildings.
My Extracurricular Activities
I still have not yet been a part of any student organizations. But, definitely, I would love to be an officer of University of Oregon American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning (ASHRAE) Student Branch in the near future.
My Greatest Learning Experience at UO
Being a scientific researcher at UO is one of my greatest learning experience. I have been working at ESBL and the Passive Systems and Controls Laboratory at Environmental Studies program for daylight and energy simulation projects. These research projects provide me a deeper understanding of how science integrated into building design and how buildings should be designed to meet human needs and comfort.
After Graduation
My goal is to be a researcher as well as an environmental design consultant.
Your Gift
This scholarship is given in time that I could make good use of it for my winter or spring term in which I am planning to take extra credits for architectural technological courses.
Thank you! Without your kind support, it might be impossible for me to achieve my goals not only continuing my study but also advancing my deeper understanding of sustainable architecture and building science. Thank you so much.