My name is Aubriana, and I am about to enter my second year at the University of Idaho. Go Vandals! I am majoring in architecture and minoring in interior architecture and design. I have always been creative throughout my education, taking numerous art classes and participating in choir and piano lessons. In high school, I excelled at math and fell in love with art history, making it a goal to visit as many museums as possible. Now, I dream of traveling, seeing new cultures, and applying my knowledge and experience to design. In my opinion, being humble, yet hungry means continuously seeking knowledge and improvement while respecting others' ideas and experiences. I believe the best designs come from collaboration, and an openness to learn! In the future, I dream of starting my own architectural firm. My curiosity and strong work ethic drive me to master technical skills and maintain meticulous attention to detail. At the same time, I believe that design should be an enjoyable and inspiring process. I am especially passionate about sustainable design, vernacular architecture, and innovative techniques and strategies. Influenced by the Mid-century Modern era, I aspire to create spaces that connect with nature, providing fresh air, sunlight, and serene views. Through my work, I want to improve the lives of others, but I also want to raise a family of my own. Control over the design process would provide the finances and flexibility I need to realize that dream. Finally, I want to lead a fulfilling life where I can contribute to the world through innovative designs and meaningful connections. Throughout my life, I have been heavily inspired by my grandparents, who own Frost Homes (general contracting) here in Boise. I loved watching each home appear from the ground up, but the best part was walking through them after completion and staging! Each one received the highest levels of thought and craftsmanship. Many similar companies went out of business during the 2008 housing bubble, but my grandparents persisted. They even paid their employees out of pocket! Today, they have built a strong reputation and continue to treat their clients and subcontractors with the utmost compassion and respect. The road ahead is long and difficult, but I am determined to make a name for myself and encourage other women to do the same. The Sallie Rowland Bright Futures Scholarship would not only empower me to take on more leadership roles, but it would also ease the financial burden of tuition and help me focus on my studies. In other words, this scholarship would allow me to fully immerse myself in my schoolwork, creative projects, and professional development. Thank you for considering me for this great opportunity!

My name is Aubriana, and I am a very compassionate, intelligent, and ambitious person. I have a strong appreciation for the arts and a desire to experience different cultures. That is why I chose the field of architecture, which offers a unique balance of creativity, technical prowess, and cultural significance. According to George Vangelatos, the founder of HMC Architects, “Architecture exists to create the physical environment in which people live, but [it] is more than just the built environment, it’s also a part of our culture.” In other words, architects are the people who design our buildings, from residential homes to schools and skyscrapers. They dictate how we are affected by our environment, shaping our experiences, interactions, and the quality of our lives. I recently finished my first year of architecture at the University of Idaho. In the future, I aspire to earn my architectural license and start a firm of my own. Many architects choose this route because it allows for complete creative control and professional flexibility. In other words, I can design my schedule, pursue the projects I want, select my employees, and even work from home! More importantly, I want to specialize in residential homes, bringing my vision of beautiful, functional, and sustainable living spaces to life. I have been exposed to the housing and construction industry since I was young, so designing and building homes is a dream! I believe that this experience, along with my love of nature, art history, other cultures, math, and social sciences, will define my work and allow me to make a lasting impact on this world. Finally, I want to create spaces that not only meet the practical needs of people but also enhance their quality of life. What excites me most about a degree in STEM is the ability to discover new things and push the boundaries of current knowledge. Architecture is constantly evolving through the integration of new technologies and sustainable practices. For example, the development of smart buildings, which utilize sensors and automated systems, has significantly reduced the energy consumption of traditional buildings. These smart buildings include features like LED bulbs, occupancy sensors (responsible for activating heat and lights when someone enters a room), windows with self-adjusting tints, and thermostats that respond to ambient temperature. These innovations also create a more pleasant environment for occupants! Another exciting movement in architecture is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). While some futurists argue that AI will eventually render architecture obsolete, I believe any building’s aesthetic, cultural, and emotional aspects are intimately connected to human experience, something that AI cannot fully replicate. Instead of replacing architects, AI could generate ideas, apply building codes to plans, and automatically update multiple systems based on a single change in design. Information technology (IT) uses computers, networking, physical devices, and infrastructure to create, process, store, and exchange data. In architecture, IT manifests as computer-aided design, project management software, 3D printing, and even drones (used to survey, map and monitor the construction process). Architecture is a complex field that relies heavily on iteration and collaboration, so the success of a building depends on how the architects design and execute their projects. By harnessing the power of IT tools and technologies, architects can create more sustainable, innovative, and pleasant buildings. For example, virtual reality (VR) will provide more detailed renderings to clients. This way, consumers get a better understanding of a project without the use of jargon or abstract drawings. Furthermore, VR will enable architects to collaborate with colleagues and clients anywhere in the world. By incorporating VR into my workflow, I can create more innovative, efficient, and client-centric designs, advancing the field of architecture. Being raised by a single mother was undeniably the biggest challenge I have faced, yet it has also been the most formative and impactful experience of my life. Without a father figure, my mother took on several different roles and responsibilities, even sacrificing her needs and desires to provide for us. Witnessing her unwavering strength and determination has taught me the importance of perseverance in adversity. I also learned from an early age that success is not guaranteed, but rather earned through hard work and determination. Another challenge I faced regularly was financial instability. As a single parent, my mother worked tirelessly to make ends meet, teaching me the importance of budgeting and saving for the future. On the other hand, navigating life without a father figure was extremely challenging. I grappled with feelings of abandonment, identity, and self-worth. However, through the love, guidance, and unwavering support of my mother, I found the strength and confidence to pursue my dreams. Emotionally, navigating adolescence without a father figure was challenging. I grappled with feelings of abandonment, identity, and self-worth, longing for a sense of belonging and validation. However, through the love, guidance, and unwavering support of my mother, I found strength in vulnerability and resilience in adversity. Her unconditional love and belief in my potential gave me the confidence to pursue my dreams and overcome any obstacle. While the journey may have been challenging, it has also been profoundly rewarding, shaping me into a compassionate, resilient, and empathetic individual. Thank you for considering me for the Young Women in STEM Scholarship!

While drafting boards may seem like a relic of the past, their significance in the history and evolution of architecture cannot be overstated. Drafting boards served as the primary tool for architects to conceptualize, develop, and showcase their designs long before the invention of computer-aided design (CAD) software. What inspires me about drafting boards is their tactile nature, which encourages a hands-on approach to design. Unlike digital tools, drafting boards require architects to engage directly with physical materials, such as pencils, rulers, and tracing paper, fostering a deeper understanding of design principles and spatial relationships. In a studio setting, architects often gather around a shared workspace, like a drafting board, to sketch, collaborate on ideas, and make iterations. The process is spontaneous and experimental, allowing professionals to explore multiple design options quickly. Secondly, there is a unique and timeless quality to sketches made with a drafting board. While digital tools offer unquestionable benefits for efficiency and precision, drafting boards retain a sense of craftsmanship and artistry that is important to architecture. In other words, hand-drawn images remind us of the benefits of human touch and intuition in the design process. This can often be forgotten in our technology-driven world. Finally, I believe understanding the traditional methods of architecture is essential for building a strong foundation in design principles, especially when I start CAD in the upcoming semester. Receiving the Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship would empower me to continue my passion for architecture and technology while challenging stereotypes in the male-dominated industry. Finally, I am determined to use my skills and knowledge to make an impact on the world! Thank you so much for your consideration.

When I was a senior in high school, I had the privilege of visiting San Francisco with my AP Art History class. I visited museums, explored the city, and enjoyed the natural scenery. Overall, it was an incredibly fun and enriching experience. The first stop I made was the De Young Museum, which stands as a beautiful and innovative piece of architecture. Inside, you can walk the halls, view the art, and then stop to take in the greenery of the interior courtyards. From the top floor, I enjoyed surreal views of the adjacent park and Japanese Gardens shrouded in mist. During my trip, I was fortunate enough to visit not one, but several major art museums. On my second day in the big city, the group I traveled with decided to visit the Museum of Modern Art, of San Francisco MOMA. Upon entering the gallery, I was instantly drawn to the diverse and contemporary murals lining the walls. Most of my group moved rather quickly, eager to visit the next stop on our list. But I wanted to take the time to appreciate each work of art, the skill of the artist, potential meaning, and even how pieces were influenced by their location in the museum. After walking all five floors of the MOMA, I decided to catch a bus back to my hotel. At one point, it stopped in front of a park where a small community event took place. There was a beautiful Gothic church across the street, a wide-open lawn, and tons of people mingling. Bubbles floated in the air and a collection of paintings was displayed for others to view and purchase. This spontaneity and exploration reminded me of being a child, it was so fun to experience a new culture! I also had the rare opportunity to enter Grace Cathedral and attend an Easter Service. I was amazed by their sheer height and meticulous craftsmanship that went into every window and column. The morning light shone through the stained glass, showering the walls with light, and the ethereal sound of the choir echoed through the massive hall. Everywhere I went, the beauty and innovation of buildings inspired me. Even the residential streets feature classic Victorian homes and beautiful landscaping. From historic landmarks to contemporary masterpieces, each building tells a story and shapes the way we experience the world around us. That is why I decided to pursue a degree in Architecture. I am excited to dive into the principles of design, sustainability, urban planning, and computer-automated design. I am also excited to continue my knowledge of art history in architecture and to take the “grand tour” to places like Rome, Spain, or Vienna. Finally, I aspire to create beautiful, functional, and sustainable buildings that will benefit others for generations.

My name is Aubriana, and I recently finished my first year as an architecture student at the University of Idaho. I love art history and my family consists of general contractors and designers. I am extremely driven to earn my architecture license and my dream is to not only start an architectural firm, but also to help others through my designs. A degree in architecture is unlike any other, consisting of studio design, theory, and analysis of significant projects. This curriculum is also notoriously time-consuming and expensive. I regularly need to purchase drafting and modeling supplies, print documents, etc. Before starting my college education, I made a goal to finish my degree without accumulating any debt. To achieve this, I have already dedicated extensive time and effort to maintaining a high GPA and applying for scholarships. I also started a job coaching recreational gymnasts, which has provided the flexibility I need to make money while taking classes full-time. Also, I love working with kids and sharing my knowledge of the sport! Last semester, I had some difficulties balancing these different aspects of my life. Between school, gymnastics classes, and daily responsibilities, there was extremely limited free time. Not only that, but I worked tirelessly through assignment after assignment for months, even sacrificing my sleep, diet, and mental health to finish. On any given day, I woke up early to go to school, took a short lunch, and then drove straight to work through the evening. I usually got home after 8:00 pm, and only then could I start to work on assignments due the next day. Over the past four months, I have become a master in time management. Specifically, I have developed a great system for organizing assignments, events, and other reminders. Rather than starting tasks late at night, I try to find a few minutes to brainstorm or do prep work. This gives me a clear direction for the project and work sessions have become much more productive. I have also started making small goals, which has helped me to prioritize and accomplish tasks with minimal anxiety. I have also made personal care a top priority. Finding a sense of balance in life is vital, and neglecting myself has serious effects on my academics and overall health. Recently, I have developed better habits for self-care and started practicing mindfulness daily. I would also like to get into a better sleep schedule, which should be easier after the conclusion of the semester. Finally, earning this scholarship would significantly lower the financial burden of college tuition and supplies. In other words, it would allow me to worry less about working and more about my studies! I am so grateful for your consideration for the Bruce and Kathy Bevan Scholarship!

For as long as I can remember, I have dreamt of having kids and raising a family. That is why I chose to pursue the Early Education CTE (Career Technical Education) Pathway at my high school. First, I learned basic home skills like cooking and sewing. Then, I took a closer examination of childhood development, followed by a deep dive into parenting and educational strategies. Some of the most memorable experiences from these classes were walking around with a weighted pregnancy belly and taking home robot babies! During my junior year, I participated in an unpaid internship at a local elementary school. I visited around 10 hours a week and contributed to classrooms as a paraprofessional. Overall, it was a really fun experience and I feel much more prepared for when I decide to have children of my own! When I was younger, I had a dream of becoming a competitive gymnast. I was extremely passionate and determined, but had to retire in high school due to overuse injuries. It left a huge hole in my heart, so it was no surprise when I decided to start coaching recreational gymnastics a few years later. The real surprise was discovering my love for children. In just a few months into coaching, I had discovered a newfound sense of peace and patience. In other words, my paraprofessional experience helped me understand that kids will be kids. They might act silly or misbehave at times, but that's simply a part of their nature. Next, I expanded my knowledge by attending Love and Logic classes, discussions with a pediatric occupational therapist, and even received my CPR certification. Now, I can confidently assist and encourage my gymnasts, earning their trust and admiration. My favorite times in the gym are when shy children ask me for help or when those who misbehave seek me out to watch their skills! Seeing them open up, form positive relationships, and try new things is beyond rewarding. In the future, I aspire to become a licensed, practicing architect. Through my experiences working with children, I have learned that our environment can have an enormous impact on our behavior and experiences. That is why I want to design residential spaces, community centers, and even schools that prioritize functionality, safety, and creativity. In other words, my architectural vision is to create beautiful and meaningful spaces that enhance the quality of life for others. Next, my position as a gymnastics coach has honed my ability to listen, communicate effectively, and build trust with others. This will help me to collaborate with clients, stakeholders, and fellow architects to bring my designs to life. Finally, earning this scholarship would significantly reduce the amount I need to pay for college tuition, allowing me to focus more on my studies. Thank you for considering my application and for the opportunity to share my dreams and aspirations. I sincerely hope that I can become a "Super Mom," just like Roxanne Mirabile Stapleton!

Ever since I was little, I wanted to be an Olympic gymnast. I was well on my way, making the Junior Olympic Team at a young age and enduring intensive training regimes to better my skills. Unfortunately, I suffered overuse injuries in both of my wrists and had to retire in high school. This was detrimental, I felt like I had lost a huge part of my identity and even suffered from depression for a long period afterward. I was later introduced to climbing by a close relative passionate about the sport. He brought me to our local YMCA, and later to Asana Bouldering Gym and the Black Cliffs, a nearby climbing destination. Immediately, I was excited by the idea of being up high and pushing my body to its limits once again. More importantly, I could experience this kind of rush without the fear of injury or even pain from my wrists. Soon, I began to develop my passion for climbing, buying a membership at Asana and making it a priority to visit multiple times a week. I'd like to mention that I am only 5' tall, so I have been able to challenge myself to not only get stronger but also find creative solutions to problems. Thanks to my preexisting strength and flexibility, and the help of my mentor, I have also been able to move through grades relatively quickly. After a year of consistently working, I finished my first ever V7s! Climbing has and will continue to help me in so many ways. I have been able to stay healthier with consistent exercise, am practicing goal setting and working through problems, and have even become close friends with some of the staff and other members of the gym. Asana also features several different amenities like a yoga room, sauna, aerial equipment, and access to a climbing-specific physical therapist. More importantly, they have created a unique sense of community that is incomparable to a traditional gym setting. I don't feel uncomfortable bouldering alone as a woman because everyone there is just as passionate and friendly as myself. Unfortunately, prices have risen drastically over the past year and I have become increasingly more busy with school. I am currently pursuing a degree in Architecture, so my college experience is somewhat different compared to other majors. A lot of my time is spent designing projects, including but not limited to sketching, modeling, researching, visiting sites, etc. I have a real appreciation for the arts and have made it a goal to make a difference throughout my career. Unfortunately, I am required to purchase a lot of supplies and am working to support myself through my education. Earning this scholarship would be enormously helpful in pursuing my degree. More specifically, I can use it to make my physical health a priority. With a year-long climbing membership, I could lose the stress of paying for day passes and would have a lot more flexibility in my schedule to go to the gym. Finally, I am working to find a balance between my personal and educational needs. Thank you for your consideration.