Our Syracuse Architecture graduate ambassadors are current graduate students who play pivotal roles in leadership by building and facilitating a community within the graduate program. They engage with new and current graduate students, as well as participate in activities to encourage research awareness and innovation; They’re available to answer questions for prospective students about the curriculum, and, more importantly, to share their own personal experiences as Syracuse Architecture graduate students.
Incoming students are paired with our Graduate Ambassadors to provide peer mentoring throughout your experience in the Master’s program in the School of Architecture.
Master of Science in Design l Energy l Futures candidate, ’25
I am a licensed architect graduated from State University of Maringa in Brazil (2021), and I decided to go back to study and pursue my Master of Science in Architecture at Syracuse University. I am 25 years old, and I worked for two years in Brazil before coming to do this program. I believe this was a great choice of mine, since it allowed me to experience a bit of the market and how things work outside school, before coming back to study. My goal is to specialize in sustainable architecture and the Design l Energy l Futures program in the School of Architecture at SU fitted perfectly for what I was aiming for. A fun fact about my decision to come do this MS program in upstate New York was the great location and the weather - I really wanted to experience the cold and the snow since I don’t have that where I am from. Being here is definitely a dream coming true and Syracuse people welcomed me as one of theirs since my very first day here. Besides studying for my degree, I am currently a Teaching Assistant for two undergraduate courses, and I worked as a Research Intern during my first semester. I participate in the Future Professorate Program, and I am also a member of the WISE FPP program (Future Professionals Program in the Woman in Science and Engineering), both initiatives open to the whole community of SU and that are being a great contribution to my experience. My expected graduation is May 2025, and I plan to work with major companies with focus on sustainable solutions but being here also grew an interest in me to pursue a PHD and go into academia as my career. Excited to discover exactly where this master’s program at Syracuse University will take me.
Jake PaigeI’m a graduate student in the M. Arch program. In addition, I am a Teaching Assistant working towards a Certificate in University Teaching. I earned a Bachelor of Science in architecture from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Beforehand, I obtained an architecture engineering + technology Associate of Science from Capital Community College in Hartford, Connecticut, and worked as a designer for 5 years at Dennis Group, a design-build firm specializing in food production facilities.
Most of my professional career was spent converting an existing warehouse into an ice cream and candy production plant. I was a part of the process, from preliminary design to overseeing construction. Outside of school, you can find me at the rock climbing gym, hiking a mountain, or just being outdoors in general. But, of course, my cat Charlie is the best reason to come back to my apartment in Westcott. Around there, I have low-key video game trivia/Tetris parties and dabble with Jazz guitar.
I chose Syracuse for its approach to human-centered design and its focus on storytelling through innovative mediums. In addition, my mentors, who were some of the most empathetic and grounded architects I’ve worked with, graduated from Syracuse. The M.Arch program has provided opportunities in line with these interests and values; it has given me the freedom to explore unique and personal conditions creatively. After school, I wish to remain in academia as a researching professor and practicing architect.
It feels good to say that I’m delighted with my choice; I genuinely believe that what sets Syracuse apart from other schools in the warm community (likely due to the cold winter), and I look forward to sharing the program with you!
Hello, I am Tru and I am originally from Vietnam. I graduated from University of Maryland-College Park with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. Upon graduation, I realized that I did not want to work as a Civil Engineer, so I became a mechanic and heavy equipment operator in the US Navy for 6 years. After that chapter, I spent 2 years traveling intermittently and figuring out my next step. Finally, I decided to take a leap of faith into the field of Architecture—an affinity which I lacked the confidence to pursue in undergrad. Why Syracuse University? It came down to 3 choices, and in the end, I went with my instincts. It just felt right, and it still does one whole year later.
My plan for after grad school is still unclear. The dream is to somehow help improve our habitats and communities while fulfilling my life-long ambition, which is to experience every place on Earth (and outside of it, too, if possible). Aside from traveling, I enjoy DIY-ing, puzzles, and dabbling. My current motto is: Wander, Discover, Create *Not necessarily in that order*
Greetings! I am Victor Beomseung Jo, currently a second-year graduate student in the Master of Architecture program here at Syracuse University. My academic journey commenced with a Bachelor of Architecture degree from Kyonggi University in Seoul, South Korea, where I delved into the intricate world of architectural design.
Before pursuing my graduate studies, I gained invaluable experience working in the Korean architecture industry for five years. This hands-on experience allowed me to contribute to various architectural projects, deepening my understanding of the field and honing my skills. Additionally, I am proud to hold a Certificate of Registration of Architect from the Korea Institute of Registered Architects (KIRA), showcasing my dedication to the profession and continuous pursuit of excellence.
Beyond my professional endeavors, I find solace and joy in the world of cinema. Whether I’m immersing myself in captivating stories on the silver screen or crafting my own movie scenarios, my passion for film knows no bounds. In my leisure time, you can often find me engrossed in writing scripts or bringing my creative ideas to life through short films.
The decision to join Syracuse University was influenced by its renowned School of Architecture, which offers a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes innovation and creativity. The opportunity to engage with cutting-edge concepts, such as artificial intelligence in architecture, further fueled my decision. Additionally, Syracuse’s vibrant community and diverse campus culture resonated with me, promising a rich exchange of ideas and experiences.
Looking ahead, I am eager to leverage the connections to New York City facilitated by Syracuse University. Armed with a comprehensive education and a passion for architecture, I aspire to make a meaningful impact in the field. Whether it’s collaborating on large-scale projects, exploring AI-driven design solutions, or pursuing further academic endeavors, I am committed to pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation.
In essence, Syracuse University represents not just a destination for academic growth but a launchpad for my aspirations and ambitions in the world of architecture.
