UNDERGRADUATE
Si Jia Wang—Class of 1982 Architectural Science Alumni Memorial Award
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Si Jia Wang—Class of 1982 Architectural Science Alumni Memorial Award
About the Award
This award was established by the class of 1982 Architectural Science Alumni in honour of their classmates and friends Claudio Grossi, Mark Adamo, Bill Slumskie and Kelly Masterson. The award will provide financial support for students in the Architecture program who demonstrate financial need and plan to travel as part of an educational program or exchange.
I’m currently a fourth-year student in the Architectural Science (Co-op) program at Toronto Metropolitan University. and , I firmly believe that experiential learning is key to our growth and development. Immersing ourselves in the world’s great cities, experiencing outstanding architecture, and delving into diverse cultures can only enhance the palette from which we draw as future architects. My passion for history, art, and people is reflected in the courses I have chosen this semester, including “Adaptive Reuse Studio,” “Heritage Conservation,” and even an elective course, “Rise of the American Empire,” taken purely for the joy of learning.
In line with my commitment to expanding my horizons, I have eagerly applied for a study abroad program, and in the upcoming semester, I will have the privilege of studying in Paris (École nationale supérieure d’architecture de Paris-La Villette).
Among the many vibrant cities to choose from, I selected Paris for several compelling reasons. Firstly, Paris boasts an extraordinary density of culture, a rich tapestry of art galleries, and world-renowned museums that I am eager to explore. In fact, I have half-jokingly told my friends that I plan to visit at least one art gallery every day! Secondly, Paris’s strategic location within Europe offers a unique opportunity to embark on a comprehensive European tour, allowing me to witness firsthand how “the site” and “context” harmonizes with architecture in this part of the world.
Coming from a Canadian perspective, I have observed that many of our natural parks are preserved in their pristine state without much human intervention. However, I am genuinely intrigued to obs erve how elements such as castles are strategically situated on mountainsides in Germany or how towns are built on waters in Italy. This juxtaposition of history and nature will undoubtedly provide invaluable insights into architectural design.
Moreover, I am excited to witness in person architectural theories discussed in class, such as pedestrian walkways and urban planning concepts like the superblocks in Barcelona. These real-world examples will not only deepen my understanding of these concepts but also inspire new ideas and perspectives in my own architectural pursuits.
Beyond being a dedicated architecture student, I consider myself an artist at heart. During my time abroad, I intend to seize every opportunity to see, document, and explore as much as I can. By combining my passion for art and architecture with the immersive experience of travel, I am confident that I will cultivate a more profound and holistic understanding of the subjects that ignite my enthusiasm.
My decision to embark on this journey to Paris is rooted in a deep commitment to enriching my educational journey through firsthand experiences, cultural immersion, and the exploration of architectural marvels across Europe. I am eager to embrace the transformative power of travel, allowing it to shape my perspective as a student, an artist, and a future architect.
This award was established by the class of 1982 Architectural Science Alumni in honour of their classmates and friends Claudio Grossi, Mark Adamo, Bill Slumskie and Kelly Masterson. The award will provide financial support for students in the Architecture program who demonstrate financial need and plan to travel as part of an educational program or exchange.
I’m currently a fourth-year student in the Architectural Science (Co-op) program at Toronto Metropolitan University. and , I firmly believe that experiential learning is key to our growth and development. Immersing ourselves in the world’s great cities, experiencing outstanding architecture, and delving into diverse cultures can only enhance the palette from which we draw as future architects. My passion for history, art, and people is reflected in the courses I have chosen this semester, including “Adaptive Reuse Studio,” “Heritage Conservation,” and even an elective course, “Rise of the American Empire,” taken purely for the joy of learning.
In line with my commitment to expanding my horizons, I have eagerly applied for a study abroad program, and in the upcoming semester, I will have the privilege of studying in Paris (École nationale supérieure d’architecture de Paris-La Villette).
Among the many vibrant cities to choose from, I selected Paris for several compelling reasons. Firstly, Paris boasts an extraordinary density of culture, a rich tapestry of art galleries, and world-renowned museums that I am eager to explore. In fact, I have half-jokingly told my friends that I plan to visit at least one art gallery every day! Secondly, Paris’s strategic location within Europe offers a unique opportunity to embark on a comprehensive European tour, allowing me to witness firsthand how “the site” and “context” harmonizes with architecture in this part of the world.
Coming from a Canadian perspective, I have observed that many of our natural parks are preserved in their pristine state without much human intervention. However, I am genuinely intrigued to obs erve how elements such as castles are strategically situated on mountainsides in Germany or how towns are built on waters in Italy. This juxtaposition of history and nature will undoubtedly provide invaluable insights into architectural design.
Moreover, I am excited to witness in person architectural theories discussed in class, such as pedestrian walkways and urban planning concepts like the superblocks in Barcelona. These real-world examples will not only deepen my understanding of these concepts but also inspire new ideas and perspectives in my own architectural pursuits.
Beyond being a dedicated architecture student, I consider myself an artist at heart. During my time abroad, I intend to seize every opportunity to see, document, and explore as much as I can. By combining my passion for art and architecture with the immersive experience of travel, I am confident that I will cultivate a more profound and holistic understanding of the subjects that ignite my enthusiasm.
My decision to embark on this journey to Paris is rooted in a deep commitment to enriching my educational journey through firsthand experiences, cultural immersion, and the exploration of architectural marvels across Europe. I am eager to embrace the transformative power of travel, allowing it to shape my perspective as a student, an artist, and a future architect.
