Bethany Woods

This is a photo of me standing on a construction site as an intern several years ago.

Degree: MArch

Expected Graduation Date: Spring 2022

Prior Degree
BA in Interior Design, Minor in History, George Fox University, Newberg, OR

2021-2022 Scholarship
Fletcher Farr Ayottee Graduate Student Award
Yost Grube Hall Architecture Scholarship

I Am Originally From Portland, OR

WHY I CAME TO THE UO AND HOW I CHOSE MY MAJOR
I chose University of Oregon because they had a strong architecture program, it was close enough to home, and I loved my campus visit!

I’ve wanted to be an architect since I was 12, because I loved the mix of art and technology. Since then I have begun to understand how architecture can actually impact the lives of everyone every day. To have a role in shaping our world through architecture is very exciting to me!

UNIQUE QUALITIES I BRING TO MY STUDIES
I bring a multi-disciplinary approach to my studies. Throughout undergrad and graduate school, I worked and interned at different types of firms within the architecture and construction industry. I believe that it is important to understand how various people are part of a project, and how your role fits in.

MY INFLUENTIAL PROFESSORS
I’ve really enjoyed all of my professors at UO. Some of the most influential have been Stephen Duff, Associate Professor of Architecture; Howard Davis, Professor of Architecture; and Gerald Gast, Associate Professor of Architecture. All three of them are very dedicated to their students and go above and beyond to make themselves available outside of class for help.

MY EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
It has been difficult to participate in student activities this year- but I have attended several student-led zoom activities. I think it’s a great way to learn from fellow peers!

MY GREATEST LEARNING EXPERIENCE AT UO
Learning from professors and professionals about how they are using architecture to impact lives in so many ways around the globe. I love hearing from working professionals especially because I can aspire to do that work once I’m out of school.

AFTER GRADUATION
I would like to work for a firm in the Pacific Northwest that does all different types of projects. I think I will use my education from the College of Design to keep being a learner throughout my career. The field of architecture is everchanging, and I’ve heard many times that its great field for those that are life-time learners!

YOUR GIFT
I really appreciate the scholarship because it makes me feel like a valued member of the emerging professionals’ community. Having others take notice of my work and commend me for it, makes me excited to keep going! It also has taken some of the financial burdens of paying for school off of me, which I greatly appreciate.

Thank you so much for your generosity and for valuing students in higher education! This award means a lot, and it reminds me that there are people out there that support emerging professionals and they see something promising in us even when we forget to see it in ourselves. Thank you!