Alison Grover

This is a photo of me standing in front of my final presentation poster from a studio entitled, “The Experimental Garden.”For this project, I designed an experiment to test soil decompaction methods on a polluted site. I used a palette of soil amendments and prairie grasses to break up soil with their strong, deep roots.

Degree: MLArch

Expected Graduation Date: Spring 2021

Previous Degree: BA, Art and Anthropology, Colby College, Waterville, ME

I’m From: Acton, MA

Why I Came to the UO and How I Chose My Major
I chose University of Oregon’s program for its inclusive studio atmosphere, its emphasis on research, and its proximity to beautiful, lush landscapes.

I chose landscape architecture because it is an incredible blend of art, plant and soil science, and creativity. I also appreciate that designing public space gives us the opportunity to instill democracy and equity into the public sphere.

Unique Qualities I Bring to My Studies
I really like to get outdoors! My passion for outdoor adventure lead me to Oregon and lead me to a career that lets us shape outdoor space in both urban and rural areas. Through hiking and biking I can observe and interact with many different landscapes and the people who inhabit them.

My Influential Professors
I feel that professor Michael Geffel has been most influential to me. He’s taught three of my studios so far, and the best thing about his teaching style is how he delivers constructive criticism. I appreciate that he gives us the feedback that we need to improve while simultaneously  inspiring self-confidence and pushing the boundaries of our capabilities.

My Extracurricular Activities
I have been involved with Design for Climate Action and LiveMove for the past year. I really like that both student groups are pushing for equity in public space, the former through encouraging climate–positive legislation and design, the latter through street redesign for pedestrians and cyclists. LiveMove’s projects and influence are noteworthy—ven in the two years I’ve been on campus, I’ve seen streets painted, concrete poured, and signs improved around town because of the work of our student-lead team. These groups are important to me because it shows how even as students, we can have a strong influence on legislators and city planners.

My Greatest Learning Experience at UO
In the past year, I really learned how to research a topic. This is important for understanding the site history, the networks at play across a certain site, and learning about local culture and politics of an area. I did not get these research skills from undergrad studies.  I cultivated them across three terms last year and now I’m much more skilled and confident about pursuing a topic of academic interest. I’ve learned that making maps is a great research tool for landscape architects to visualize an area and its intersecting stakeholders.

After Graduation
After graduation, I would like to join a design firm that designs public space, with an emphasis on climate resilience and democratic urban design. I hope to make the public realm more beautiful, artistic, accessible, verdant, and meaningful.

Your Gift
This scholarship is helping me achieve my goals of delivering a strong master’s project. From summer 2020 until May 2021, I will be spending the majority of my time researching, drawing, mapping, and writing on the topic of renewable energy, alternative transportation, and equitable urban design in Portland, Oregon. With this scholarship, I am able to devote more time and attention to this process, which means my project will be even more meaningful and robust.

Thank you very much for supporting me in my studies. I am so excited to dive into my master’s project and spend my time reading and writing on the topic of alternative energy. This is an exciting opportunity and I am very thankful for your generosity!