Nicole Bunzel

Degree: BArch, minor in Environmental Studies

Expected Graduation Date: Spring 2022

I’m From: Anacortes, WA

Why I Came to the UO and How I Chose My Major
I chose UO because of its focus on sustainability. I love how my teachers push me to think outside the box and be open to learning new things everyday. Without using traditional grades in studios , we are in a more collaborative learning environmental and help our peers preform better rather than being in competition with each other.

I have always known I wanted to pursue a degree in design. Architecture has always been around me and I was constantly inspired by it.

Unique Qualities I Bring to My Studies
I have travelled to many places around the world which has enabled me to study various forms of architecture from all different countries.

My Influential Professors
I really enjoyed Jim Givens as a studio professor as well as in Intro to Architecture. He has a very romantic way of looking at architecture and really makes you focus on the experiences people will have in the spaces you create.

My Extracurricular Activities
I work for the College of Education as a graphic designer and I love that my job and my major go hand in hand because so much of architecture is learning how to create beautiful graphics to convey our designs.

My Greatest Learning Experience at UO
I think learning how to adapt to digital learning has been a challenge but also very rewarding. I am finding myself to be a very good independent learner and problem solver. I have enjoyed the push to designing digitally rather than physically, like we did in our first two years. There are so many impressive computer software programs out there and I am just beginning to explore all the possibilities for my designs when I apply them.

After Graduation
I hope to start my professional career in an urban city like Seattle or Portland. I love the style of the Pacific Northwest and hope to begin a long and successful career here.

Your Gift
This scholarship is such a big help. My family can only give me minimal support. This award will be used for tuition to purchase the expensive software and materials that are necessary when studying Architecture.

Thank you so much! Right now is a very hard time financially for many, including me. It is great to know I have such a wonderful community of people surrounding me to make sure I can afford to reach graduation.