For me the CAPLA experience is about thinking as an individual, which is especially important when studying abroad.

I am from Shijiazhuang City in Hebei, China, and enjoy creating conceptual sketches by hand. I also love to watch comedies and talk shows. Currently I am the president of the CAPLA International Students Club. I graduated from the BS in Sustainable Built Environments in May 2020 and now am in the MS Urban Planning program. What I like best about CAPLA is the accessibility to faculty and staff who are ready to provide help when you need it. My biggest challenges as an international student have been the language and cultural barriers. From a career perspective, I've held two summer internships in China, the first in urban planning and the second in architectural design. My advice to students is that it's okay to be straightforward if you have questions or concerns. As an international student, try not to be too quiet during class discussion, as getting involved is significant for the learning process.

Connect with Longhao

To me, the CAPLA experience means that I get to work closely with likeminded peers who are passionate about preserving our environment and serving our community.

I am from Cave Creek, Arizona. I serve as the program assistant for the University of Arizona’s chapter of the University Climate Change Coalition and am also the Associated Students of the University of Arizona’s senator representing CAPLA. When I am not doing schoolwork, you can find me on top of Mount Lemmon reading or writing poetry, listening to music that’s a little too loud or visiting my favorite local coffee shops with friends. My favorite part about CAPLA is that it is a great community that supports the success and mental health of all students. I also love how much CAPLA emphasizes the importance of sustainability and community within our designs and practices; it shows that through our dedication, positive change is possible. After graduation, I aspire to become a transportation planner to develop more sustainable and equitable solutions to public transportation and urban street design. The best advice I have for prospective students is to put yourself out there! The University of Arizona is such a supportive community and there are so many people within and outside of CAPLA who want to help you succeed.

Connect with Lauren

The CAPLA experience means being able to have a close connection with faculty, staff and colleagues to learn from and motivate each other to strive for greatness.

I am from Sierra Vista, Arizona, and besides architecture I love to play tennis, go on hikes and enjoy the company of others. I also love the closeness between students at CAPLA, not only in my individual year but also different years and majors across the entire college. Though I have not had any job experience yet, I have attended the CAPLA Job Interview Fair and through that am looking forward to an architecture internship this summer. My career goals are to attain enough knowledge and skills to become a licensed architect and help improve the lives of people's everyday interactions through architectural practice. My advice to future students is to become engaged in clubs and activities around the university and not be afraid to speak up and ask for help, because I assure you, you are not the only one struggling.

Connect with Lydia