Current Architecture student interviews graduating student about her SOA experience

As the school year comes to a close, student Anne-Marie Raymond took the opportunity to talk to graduating Master's of Architecture student Mais Karadsheh about her time at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Architecture. They discussed what she found most rewarding and beneficial towards her future in architecture.

Raymond: Upon graduation from high school, what pushed you towards attending the School of Architecture at University of Detroit Mercy? How did you hear about the School and the program?

Mais Karadsheh

Karadsheh: In the beginning of my school search I was focused on finding a school were I could pursue art or interior design, something that allowed me to be creative and innovative. I had never heard about UDM and its Architecture program until I attended a college career fair. Once I talked to the school representative, I believe her name was Sarah, I became interested in architecture in 'Detroit'. So I went through the whole process of being acquainted with the School and its powerful architectural program. I do believe the orientation and the tour of the School influenced me to attend UDM over the other potential schools.

Raymond: A lot of long nights and countless hours make up your current schedule. What motivated you to stick with architecture? What did you find most rewarding?

Karadsheh: Even though I had no clue what I was getting myself into when choosing architecture, I do believe that I am lucky and privileged to have made such a decision. An architecture student that succeeds in this program is not only motivated but has a true passion for this career. Without the excitement and passion that I have for architecture, I'm not sure I would have made it this far. We work so hard trying to complete our studio projects, constantly pulling long nights, striving to fulfill all the requirements and design a building that we personally become attached to. In the end, whether or not it was 'the most beautiful' design, there is something far more rewarding about knowing that I put all my effort and emotion into my project and that it helped me develop and grow as a person.

Raymond: How has your definition of architecture changed since your time at UDM SOA? What courses helped you to craft this interpretation?

Karadsheh: My perception of architecture has definitely changed. It's not just 'architecture' as a career, it's a lifestyle. As a student that's put five strong years into the program, architecture becomes more than just time that I have to spend on my project, but rather, it's an environment, a conversation that I want to surround myself with. It's everything and everywhere. I think overall, the program is set up so that each year works itself into the next very well. Each course is as important as the next. They all set you up to think of how architects work in the real world. You learn to find yourself as a designer through all the intensity of the program, and with the final thesis year, you have the opportunity to guide the project in your own direction, testing all your knowledge and understanding about architecture and design.

Raymond: Obtaining a co-op position is part of the current curriculum at the SOA. Did you find your co-op to be beneficial? What did you gain from your time in practice?

Karadsheh: You have to complete two full-time co-op jobs before graduation. I co-oped for DSA Architects as a member of the SHW Group and for the Detroit Collaborative Design Center. With the two that I've completed, I feel I had the opportunity to view two types of firms, a corporate architectural firm and a design-oriented firm. With each position, I had multiple tasks that I was in charge of. Some were more exciting than others, but overall you have to take everything as a learning experience to prepare you for a real job after graduation. I think it's a great opportunity to have had the chance to work in such a diverse set of firms.

Raymond: Reflecting back on your past years at UDM, what moments seem to you to be the most memorable?

Karadsheh: We spend countless hours working on projects, but within those hours, we build strong relationships with our classmates. Our studio becomes a home, and we become a family, supporting each other through the hard times, whether it's a challenging studio project or a personal issue outside of school. I could write a book about all the memories made at this School, some good and some bad, but overall it's a been a fabulous learning experience, and I'm going to cherish it forever.

Raymond: Upon commencement, what are your plans? Do you see a future for yourself in the Detroit area or do you plan move beyond this area?

Karadsheh: I have an overload of excitement about my plans for the future, and right now, I'm starting that new chapter in my life. I'll stay in Detroit for now, but I'm hoping for an opportunity in New York after building more knowledge and experience at an architecture firm here.