Hannah Gerton
Degree: BArch, Minors in Interior Architecture and Business Administration
Expected Graduation Date: Spring 2021
I’m From: Excelsior, MN
Why I Came to the UO and How I Chose My Major
I chose to attend the University of Oregon because I was eager to experience a different state and was interested in all that Oregon had to offer both as a school and a place to call home. As a student in the College of Design, I love the fact that other students around me are driven and intelligent, but also take time to embrace their creativity!
I chose to major in architecture because I have always been drawn to math and science related fields, but wanted to tie in art as well. Originally I was planning to pursue a degree in engineering, however architecture seemed like a better option for allowing me to study something practical and challenging, yet also artistic.
Unique Qualities I Bring to My Studies
One of the most influential and unique things I bring to my studies is a different perspective. As an out of state student, as well as a student in the Honors College at UO, feel that I have the ability to participate in a more cross-disciplinary approach to architectural education. The Honors College has presented me with the opportunity to study many other subjects outside of architecture and design, which is integral to gaining a well-rounded education. This ability to deeply understand, think critically, and work with a diverse group of people is something I will carry with me throughout and after my education.
My Influential Professors
The two professors who have been the most influential are Esther Hagenlocher and Tom Hahn. Although they brought very different perspectives to their work and teaching, I was able to feel the passion for architecture, teaching and learning that these two professors displayed. Aside from their spirit in the classroom, I learned a great deal about the creative process from these professors. Esther taught us to be bold and to try new designs without trepidation which was scary, but necessary to learn in my first-year studio. Tom taught us to use words as a way to express and diagram architectural ideas. I have continued to use both of these methods and strive to carry on the same passion for architecture that these professors display.
My Extracurricular Activities
I am a member and student leader of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), and often participate in intramural sports. AIAS has been a great opportunity to collaborate with other students and staff in an effort to improve the lives of students and provide them with the resources they need to succeed. This organization, as well as NSLS, has connected me with a large number of peers and has fulfilled a passion for community service that I have always had.
My Greatest Learning Experience at UO
I had the opportunity to study abroad in Rome last summer (2019), which was really enriching on a personal and academic level. This trip allowed me to advance my architectural knowledge by visiting incredible sites of architecture while also immersing myself in a new culture, which I got to explore daily.
After Graduation
After graduation, I am hoping to work at a mid-size architecture firm which will allow me to experience a variety of project types while also working closely with others. More importantly, I hope to find a firm which shares my values of occupant driven design, looking to enhance the lives of clients. I think what I will use most from my College of Design education is the ability to think creatively and approach my work in a cross-disciplinary manner.
Your Gift
This scholarship is important to me because it validates that hard work and dedication pay off. All through my academic career I have prided myself on succeeding despite challenging academic workloads. Receiving this scholarship proves to me that if I set my mind to accomplish something in the future, I will be able to achieve it as long as I am willing to put in the effort. The Pat Piccioni Scholarship is helpful financially, because it allows me to study with more ease, and it is also an encouragement of my success thus far, which is much appreciated in uncertain times.
Thank you for your generosity and dedication to the success of students. It is truly amazing to be part of a school and community that provides such opportunities! Thank you!