Catherine Etches

The CAPLA experience means being part of a community that supports you to excel in all aspects of college life. Embrace challenges, trust in yourself, and don’t hesitate to lean on peers and professors when needed.

Hello everyone, my name is Catherine Etches. I’m from Roatán, Honduras, and I’m currently pursuing a degree in Architecture, set to graduate in 2028. For me, CAPLA has been an incredible environment where I feel truly supported, and it’s become my home here in Tucson. The encouragement, friendship, and recognition I receive here make a huge difference, and I couldn’t imagine spending so much time in a place where I didn’t feel this supported. Outside of CAPLA, I stay busy with a job I love both here in Tucson and back home. I also enjoy reading, napping, going for walks, and hanging out with friends. I’m always up for being involved, so I volunteer in my free time too! My favorite part of CAPLA is our strong sense of community. We’re always cheering each other on, and some of my best memories are the late-night sessions in the studio with my classmates—tired, stressed, but united before a deadline! My biggest challenge has been managing the distance from home. I miss my family (and maybe my dogs even more!) a lot, and not being able to go home as often as some of my peers makes it tough. I’ve shadowed architects back in Honduras and plan to pursue a professional internship soon. Eventually, I want to return to Roatán and start my own firm, especially as the housing market there is thriving. My advice? Believe in yourself—it may sound cheesy, but it’s essential. You’re stepping into a challenging phase, but you’re going to do amazing things. CAPLA has an incredible team ready to support you, and I hope you’ll find as much strength here as I have!