Grace Hausladen is an Architecture graduate student from Overland Park, KS. She shares why she chose to attend Catholic University and the School of Architecture and Planning, and what advice she has for prospective students.
Why did you choose to attend Catholic University and the School of Architecture?
"Location and an authentically Catholic community were both essential parts in my decision to attend Catholic University. I received my bachelor’s in architecture and economics, so I knew that I wanted to attend a post-graduate university that would allow me to pursue both of my interests. I loved my education at Benedictine College and found that having a Catholic architectural education is so rich and essential in my studies, so I wanted to continue to pursue my architectural studies at a university that was rooted in the Catholic faith.
Being located near the heart of Washington D.C., I am able to take advantage of the fantastic architecture the city has to offer by sketching on the weekends and creating my own personal book of precedent from right here in the city."
Why did you choose to study Architecture?
"I grew up in a few different states, but I noticed from a young age that many places didn’t have a distinct identity like some other countries do, and I saw an opportunity to create a stronger identity through our architecture. I grew up with music and art in the home, and I always enjoyed mathematics and problem-solving, so architecture was the perfect intersection of all my interests. It allows me to study so many fields from engineering and art, to history, economics, theology, and music, as well as continuing to push me to expand my horizons and learn new subjects, all while rooting myself in a meaningful tradition."
What's been your favorite part of being a student at Catholic University?
"My favorite part has been the community both within Crough and on campus. I didn’t know what to expect coming into the School of Architecture as a new graduate student, but people have been very welcoming and there is a great sense of community in the studios! I have also greatly appreciated the integration of faith and education, rooted in the tradition of classical architecture here at Catholic University. Attending a Catholic university allows me to really tap into this intersection of our faith and the classical tradition in my work, and to shape the kind of architect that I want to be."
What advice would you give to prospective students?
"Spend time getting to know your studio mates; architecture is such a unique field of study in that you spend so much time with your fellow students, that fostering those friendships can be a unique part of the major. That said, it’s also important to take advantage of all the opportunities it presents from studying abroad, to internships, to working with other disciplines because it will all help you to become a better architect.
Some of my favorite memories from undergrad and graduate school have been the opportunities I have had outside of the classroom. So be sure to take time to explore the city and go on sketching tours—you won’t regret it!"
