Name: Gracie Kane
Major: Architecture
Year: Senior

Why did you choose Ohio State?

I chose Ohio State because it doesn't have to be explained. Whenever I tell someone I go to Ohio State the reaction is always the same—praise for the university’s rigorous academics. Ohio State is known to be a prestigious university worldwide, and no matter where you go if you have on Ohio State attire, you are likely to have someone yell "O-H-“ in your direction.

What led you to a major in architecture?

Architecture is all around me when I walk down the street, when I go out to eat with friends, and when I go to sleep at night. I wanted to learn how to make a building aesthetically pleasing, and also how to construct and choose design elements to make my project unique. Additionally, architecture combines my love for being creative and solving problems. My designs allow me to be as imaginative as I want and also address the real-world issues of logistics.

Why did you decide to minor in city and regional planning?

In addition to my major in architecture, I am pursuing a minor in city and regional planning. Site planning is critical to engaging the built environment, so it is important to understand how your building design fits, or sometimes does not fit, into the surrounding area. City and regional planning introduces me to new ways of thinking about my project at a larger scale, which enhances my overall design.

Can you describe work that you have done at Knowlton that illustrates your interest in the field of architecture?

In spring 2020 I completed a research project on recycling architecture and infrastructure. My thesis focused on retrofitting big box stores and other abandoned structures in order to reduce the environmental effects caused by construction and production. This project resonates with me because our generation of architects specifically will be tasked with making more sustainable design choices in order to combat the environmental damages that have been accumulating for centuries.

What advice would you give high school students who are interested in your particular program?

Try it! I would say to take the prerequisite courses (history and studio) and see if you not only like the content but also feel that you can handle the occasional long nights before a studio review and time spent making models, while setting time aside for other classes. If you find all of the above is manageable, then architecture is probably a great choice for you. If all of the above does not seem like a good fit, then architecture may not be for you. Which is okay! College is all about learning what you like and don't like and what you have the most aptitude for.

What's the best advice for a new Knowlton student?

Time management is everything. There will be times when all-nighters are inevitable and unavoidable. But at other times—if you use your time wisely and plan your day—you can avoid these long nights. It is also important to schedule time to do things other than school work—hangout with friends, go out, or take a walk. This will help you create a healthy and balanced life at school.

What do you enjoy most about being a Knowlton student?

The community. It does not matter if you are a first-year student or a last semester grad student, peers and faculty at Knowlton are always willing to help you—whether it is to learn a new command in Rhino or help prepare a class schedule that best suits your program.

When you are not at Knowlton working/studying, what do you like to do for fun?

In my free time I love to do anything outdoors. I love kayaking, hiking, or taking my dog to the dog park. This summer I got interested in gardening and I have now grown a pretty serious container garden on my apartment balcony.