FOURTH YEAR UNDERGRADUATE
Wanyi Zhang—CB Richard Ellis Award
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Wanyi Zhang—CB Richard Ellis Award
About the Award
CB Richard Ellis Award:
To recognize the academic achievements and extra-curricular activities of a student who demonstrates: Respect - Treats everyone with dignity, values all contributors and contributions and helps others to succeed; Integrity - Upholds the highest ethical standards in their work; Service - Dedicates himself/herself to making a meaningful contribution; Excellence - Aspire to be the best in everything and committed to continuous improvement; Ability to work in a team environment; and Superior communication skills.
There‘s a will, There’s a way
My passion for architecture began in high school, where a design class introduced me to the creativity and technical skills involved in the field. I pursued this interest at George Brown College, earning a Diploma in Architecture Technology, which provided a solid foundation in architectural techniques. After graduating, I gained hands-on experience as a design associate for a subcontractor specializing in commercial and residential millwork. Working in the industry gave me a firsthand understanding of practical applications in design, client collaboration, and project execution. I came to appreciate that while school provides essential theory, the office environment is where knowledge and skills truly deepen.
This insight guided me to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in architecture at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), where I built on my foundation and further developed key professional skills. My first year at TMU was focused on core design skills and understanding the technical and aesthetic aspects of architecture. As I progressed, I developed essential time management skills to balance the demanding course load and project deadlines. Managing multiple projects simultaneously taught me to plan and allocate time effectively, a skill that’s indispensable in the fast-paced project management field.
Through numerous studio sessions, I honed my ability to communicate ideas clearly and effectively. Presenting designs and receiving critiques from professors allowed me to strengthen my presentation skills and convey complex ideas to diverse audiences. These sessions also helped me learn how to articulate my creative and technical decisions thoughtfully and constructively. The collaborative environment in studios fostered my teamwork skills, as we often worked in groups to develop and present integrated design solutions. I learned to value different perspectives, coordinate tasks, and maintain clear communication, all of which are fundamental in project management.
One of the most significant lessons I’ve gained from my time at TMU is the importance of thoughtful, occupant-centered design. Every element of a building should enhance the comfort and well-being of its occupants, from the materials used to the way spaces are organized. This awareness has deepened my approach to architecture and design, making me more mindful of the practical needs and experiences of future building users. By specializing in project management, I hope to integrate this focus on user comfort with a structured approach
to project execution, bridging my design background with effective management strategies for holistic project success.
I also participated in TimberFever in 2022. As the Catering Coordinator for the TimberFever competition, I further applied these values in a project-oriented setting. Managing catering logistics for teams and individual needs, maintaining integrity in handling resources, and providing service excellence under pressure. Effective teamwork was essential as I communicated with event organizers, suppliers, and team members, making sure everything ran smoothly. This role allowed me to see firsthand how superior communication, combined with respect and dedication, drives successful project outcomes.
In my role as a barista, I learned how to balance respect and integrity with customer expectations, ensuring every interaction was positive and every transaction was transparent. Service excellence became a priority as I developed a commitment to quality in every detail, from drink preparation to cleanliness, allowing me to create a welcoming atmosphere for our customers. My ability to work in a team environment also grew; coordinating with my colleagues and training new employees during peak hours taught me the importance of clear communication, accountability, and mutual support.
Both my role as a barista and my work as Catering Coordinator during TimberFever have developed core project management skills—time management, adaptability, stakeholder engagement, and teamwork. These experiences have given me a practical foundation, equipping me to manage complex projects with a focus on organization, service, and communication.
CB Richard Ellis Award:
To recognize the academic achievements and extra-curricular activities of a student who demonstrates: Respect - Treats everyone with dignity, values all contributors and contributions and helps others to succeed; Integrity - Upholds the highest ethical standards in their work; Service - Dedicates himself/herself to making a meaningful contribution; Excellence - Aspire to be the best in everything and committed to continuous improvement; Ability to work in a team environment; and Superior communication skills.
There‘s a will, There’s a way
My passion for architecture began in high school, where a design class introduced me to the creativity and technical skills involved in the field. I pursued this interest at George Brown College, earning a Diploma in Architecture Technology, which provided a solid foundation in architectural techniques. After graduating, I gained hands-on experience as a design associate for a subcontractor specializing in commercial and residential millwork. Working in the industry gave me a firsthand understanding of practical applications in design, client collaboration, and project execution. I came to appreciate that while school provides essential theory, the office environment is where knowledge and skills truly deepen.
This insight guided me to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in architecture at Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), where I built on my foundation and further developed key professional skills. My first year at TMU was focused on core design skills and understanding the technical and aesthetic aspects of architecture. As I progressed, I developed essential time management skills to balance the demanding course load and project deadlines. Managing multiple projects simultaneously taught me to plan and allocate time effectively, a skill that’s indispensable in the fast-paced project management field.
Through numerous studio sessions, I honed my ability to communicate ideas clearly and effectively. Presenting designs and receiving critiques from professors allowed me to strengthen my presentation skills and convey complex ideas to diverse audiences. These sessions also helped me learn how to articulate my creative and technical decisions thoughtfully and constructively. The collaborative environment in studios fostered my teamwork skills, as we often worked in groups to develop and present integrated design solutions. I learned to value different perspectives, coordinate tasks, and maintain clear communication, all of which are fundamental in project management.
One of the most significant lessons I’ve gained from my time at TMU is the importance of thoughtful, occupant-centered design. Every element of a building should enhance the comfort and well-being of its occupants, from the materials used to the way spaces are organized. This awareness has deepened my approach to architecture and design, making me more mindful of the practical needs and experiences of future building users. By specializing in project management, I hope to integrate this focus on user comfort with a structured approach
to project execution, bridging my design background with effective management strategies for holistic project success.
I also participated in TimberFever in 2022. As the Catering Coordinator for the TimberFever competition, I further applied these values in a project-oriented setting. Managing catering logistics for teams and individual needs, maintaining integrity in handling resources, and providing service excellence under pressure. Effective teamwork was essential as I communicated with event organizers, suppliers, and team members, making sure everything ran smoothly. This role allowed me to see firsthand how superior communication, combined with respect and dedication, drives successful project outcomes.
In my role as a barista, I learned how to balance respect and integrity with customer expectations, ensuring every interaction was positive and every transaction was transparent. Service excellence became a priority as I developed a commitment to quality in every detail, from drink preparation to cleanliness, allowing me to create a welcoming atmosphere for our customers. My ability to work in a team environment also grew; coordinating with my colleagues and training new employees during peak hours taught me the importance of clear communication, accountability, and mutual support.
Both my role as a barista and my work as Catering Coordinator during TimberFever have developed core project management skills—time management, adaptability, stakeholder engagement, and teamwork. These experiences have given me a practical foundation, equipping me to manage complex projects with a focus on organization, service, and communication.
