cuAIAS

AIAS T-Shirts now on Sale!

2009-04-17T09:45:00.001-04:00

LEED and IDP Info Sessions

2009-04-10T13:06:00.003-04:00

Got a summer internship? Awesome. Now find out what you need to do to make the most of it.

Come find out about the process and changes occuring to professional accreditation in the LEED AP and Intern Development Process.

Wednesday April 15th 7:00 pm
Koubek Auditorium

Rachel Kros, AIA,
National Council of Architecture Registration Boards (the people who administer IDP)

Make sure you're getting the experience you need to take the registration exam! Also the way in which you report your internship time is changing to limit your reporting to the past sixth months. Come find out how to start and update your NCARB record.

Jaime Van Moorik
United States Green Building Council
Green Building Certification Institute

LEED 2009 is coming and the old LEED AP system is being phased out. Find out what a LEED Green Associate is and how you be the first to get this new credential while still in school.d

Refreshments might be served. (If we find some cash lying around)

Beaux Arts Ball 2009-2010!

2009-04-10T12:59:00.006-04:00

If you didn't go you missed out. Here's looking forward to the 80th Annual Beaux Arts Ball in 2010!

Beaux Arts Ball - Tickets Online

2009-03-27T01:23:00.009-04:00

Beaux Arts Ball is almost here!

"Post-Secret"
National Postal Museum
Saturday April 4th, 2009
8 pm -11 pm
$25 for entry tickets

To attend Beaux Arts this year you need to...

I. Purchase your tickets and drink tickets online.
II. Print out the flyer with directions, event and after party info. (May take a minute to load)
III. Read the rules and other stuff associated with your ticket
IV. Dress up, go out, and have a great time!

The ticket includes entrance into the ball hosted at the National Postal Museum, a self coat check, h'ordeurves and non-alcoholic beverages.

For individuals that purchased drink tickets, those will be redeemed at the door of the event after proper identification.

There is also a design contest that revolves around Post Secret, which is a website phenomenon developed by a man in Georgetown. The challenge is to develop a postcard that shares a secret, whether it be an inside joke or a philosophical view. Each attendee is invited to participate, turning in the design at the door to be displayed anonymously, thus the "Post Secret." Then attendees are invited to vote for their favorite design, not knowing the designer. The person chosen receives a "People's Choice award" and a prize. You can view examples at postsecret.com, remembering that we're looking for entrees that are more along the quirky, humorous line rather than the morbid or offensive. There is no size or media restrictions, just no offensive material will be displayed.

If you have any problems or questions feel free to email the AIAS officer team at AIASatCUA@gmail.com or contact Irene Jorden at 410-533-6377.

Than you for joining us for this Catholic University tradition.

XVII Annual Career Fair

2009-03-23T19:16:00.005-04:00

CUA AIAS welcomes you to our Seventeenth Annual Career Fair this Wednesday March 25th, 2009!

Pryzbyla University Center
Great Room A (Upstairs)
1-2 pm Current AIAS members only (check your membership here)
2-5 pm Open to current students and members of the CUArch community

While our Fair will be smaller than it has been in recent years, it also means that you will have a greater oppurtunity to connect with employers on a more personal level.

The following firms will be attending the Career Fair this year:

AECOM Design
AIAS National Office
Dewberry
David M. Schwarz Architects Inc.
Gensler
Giuliani Associates Architects, PC
Grimm + Parker Architects
HDR, Inc.
Hickok Cole Architects
NCARB
Perkins + Will
VOA Associates
WDG Architecture
Wilmot/Sanz Inc.
Zimmer Gunsel Frasca Partnership

Thanks to all our firms for their continued commitment to CUArch. We look forward to seeing you at Career Fair!

2009 QUAD Conference + Beaux Arts Ball

2009-03-20T20:05:00.005-04:00

Each year, the AIAS Quads host conferences in the fall and spring. They are hosted by an AIAS chapter in the region and the themes vary. The conferences are a terrific way to meet other students in your region, to learn about architecture outside of the classrooms, and have a lot of fun!

QUAD CONFERENCE REGISTRATION
E-mail AIAS.NESPRINGQUAD@gmail.com
*REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS MARCH 25th*

PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE:
Friday, April 3rd

6pm to 7pm - Welcome Event / Gallery Exhibit at University of Maryland, School of Architecture
7pm to 8:30pm - Lecture by Moshe Safdie!!
9pm to 11pm - Friday night social event hosted by AIAS Maryland chapter

Saturday, April 4th

Meet at School of Architecture to depart for various locations:
Washington DC - Monument & Embassy tours
Baltimore - water taxi firm tour
Annapolis - Chesapeake Bay Foundation building tour

8pm to 11pm - Beaux Arts Ball in Washington DC
National Postal Museum (across from Union Station)

Sunday, April 5th

Tours of University of Maryland Leaf House

More details here.

Portfolio + Resume Workshop

2009-02-23T01:03:00.008-05:00

AIAS is pleased to announce that as part of our Professional Development Series we will be hosting Portfolio expert Harold Linton, author of Portfolio Design. Now in its 3rd edition, the book has served as the resource for architecture students who are looking to start or perfect their portfolios.

MARK THE DATE!

Mr. Harold Linton will be giving Portfolio Design Advice a on March 9th at 7 pm in Koubek Auditorium, just in time for the AIAS Career Fair on March 25th in the Pryz.

Dr. Alan Goodman, director of Career Services, will also speak about how to compose a successful cover letter and resume. Special thanks to Dean Ott for financing the event.

See more at http://www.portfoliodesign.com/

Check out his book here.

A short (kind of) description of his presentation:

PLANNING the design of a portfolio and how to bring about professional results from the first to the last page with continuity and consistency is a challenging prospect. It is significant to design professionals, no matter what form of print or electronic presentation one adopts, to have clear plans for the visual and written presentation of your work. It is perhaps one of the most important decisions one explores in preparation for employment interviews, fellowships, grants and postgraduate academic opportunities.

The latest examples of visual communications for architecture are included in a 1.5-hour slide lecture presentation and also in the workshop through abundant samples of printed and digital materials. The slide lecture includes sample portfolios gathered from leading design schools throughout the North America, Mexico, Europe and Asia. A broad range of print portfolios in bound and plate formats created digitally are included along with discussion of the techniques and materials and the necessary resources for production. Examples of the organization and graphic design for digital approaches to creating portfolios on diskette, CD-Rom and on the Internet are also included.

The portfolios included in the lecture represent the work of young professionals who have recently graduated from undergraduate, graduate, and post-professional degree programs as well as portfolios from young professionals in design offices. The lecture also includes aspects of how several students evolved portfolios from undergraduate to graduate and into professional career positions. Discussion focuses on making a portfolio including the written materials, reprographics, bindings and cases, photography, typography, electronic approaches, layout design strategies, sequencing, scanning, and more. Also included is an introduction to design office portfolio presentations and folios where budgets are large and production values are important. Developing an appreciation for graphic communications useful for client prospecting in architecture and allied design fields helps one to understand contemporary visual communications for print, interactive design, and overall portfolio development.

Professional Development Series

2009-02-23T00:23:00.011-05:00

AIAS is happy to announce that we are bringing the profession to you this coming semester. Over the next few months we have several events planned that will help you get a job, and get credit for your internship this summer. Planned events include:

Tuesday February 24th
Firm Tour of CORE Architecture with Howard University. Meet at 10 am in the lobby of Crough. RSVP to aiasatcua@gmail.com ASAP. Visit www.coredc.com to check out their firm!

Monday March 9th
Portfolio and Resume Design Workshop
7-10 pm Koubek Auditorium

Wednesday March 25th
XVII Annual AIAS Career Fair
1-5 pm Pryzbyla Center

Saturday April 4th
Baltimore Waterfront Firm Tours in conjunction with Northeast Quad Conference

Wednesday April 15th
LEED and IDP Info Sessions
7-10 pm Koubek Auditorium

Dates and times subject to slight changes. Please check back often for more info!

ANNOUCEMENTS!!!

2009-02-12T16:37:00.004-05:00

GENERAL MEETING:
Wednesday, February, 18, 2009 at 6:30 pm (Location TBA)
We will be handing out the current issue of CRIT magazine and discussing committee updates and involvement.

Job Fair Committee:
The Job Fair is on Wednesday, March 25, 2009
If you are interested in helping out with the Job Fair, please email us at AIASatCUA@gmail.com.

Beaux Arts Ball Committee:
Saturday, April 4, 2009
We need as much help with planning, publicity, and set up for one of the university's largest events. Email us!

Northeast Quad Spring Conference:
April 3 - 5, 2009 at University of Maryland, College Park
Many activities, tours, lectures, and social events are planned for a great weekend of architecture fun! Since UMD is so close by, there's no excuse not to go. Email us if you're interested!

Freedom By Design:
FBD has their first job! If you would like to be involved, email AIAS and let us know. There is no set time commitment and you can be involved in a job by job basis. Everything from design to construction is executed by the students.

Interested in becoming involved within CUArch?
AIAS is looking for future student leaders that would like to be active within the school and AIAS. Please let us know if you would like more information!

CUArch Accreditation & Student Leadership

2009-02-12T16:23:00.003-05:00

We apologize for not being active for the first month of the semester.

Just like the faculty and staff, AIAS has been very busy preparing for accreditation. Officers of AIAS, CSI, NOMAS, and the Student Advisory Committee sat down with the accreditation team and discussed student involvement and leadership within the school. We are all very proud to say that the team is impressed by the quality of students, work, and community that makes our school strong. We would be more than happy to discuss this topic with you, so send us an email or stop by our desks!

The end of the school year is fast approaching! Four of our five officers, as well as the Freedom by Design captain and project manager, will be graduating in May. AIAS wants to pass the torch along to other students. Send us an email at AIASatCUA@gmail.com if you're interested!

Welcome Back!

2009-01-11T11:17:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year and welcome back to school!

This is going to be a very busy semester for AIAS. We've got lots of programs coming up for the spring 2009 semester. And who can't forget about our biggest event in the spring? Beaux Arts Ball!

Keep a look out for emails, posters, and blog updates for all AIAS activities.

Good luck with the start of the semester!

FORUM Denver 2009: Energy

2009-01-05T11:05:00.001-05:00

Leaders from the Northeast Quad of AIAS

Seven members of CUA AIAS set out for Denver to celebrate ringing in 2009 with 600+ other architecture students from all over the world at AIAS Forum. This past Forum explored design and sustainability. Hosted by the AIAS Chapter at the University of Colorado Denver, FORUM explored not just issues related to sustainability and “green” design, but also the “energy” of great architecture.

Student Chair Andrew Atchley, in conjunction with the Denver host committee and countless sponsors and supporters, assembled some of the leading architecture and design experts to serve as thought leaders, catalysts and mentors. Andrew and his colleagues recognized the inherent challenges those in the design world face as they try to create structures that not only minimize environmental impacts but also provide form, function and sense of place. The speakers and programs explored those issues and helped students work toward solutions that can be utilized in their classrooms and in future practice.

The first day split the group up. Some students enjoyed the landscape and went skiing, meeting other AIAS members from around the world. One student, Marcus Johnson, was able to participate in a architectural photography workshop to hone his skills while exploring the city. Another student, Irene Jorden, participated in the Sustainability Design Charette in a mixed team with AIAS members from SCAD and Roger Williams University. Their newly founded team was able to analyze a site in Denver and design studio and community spaces for the future, focusing on sustainability and global networks, and produce a design to be judged- all in just 8 hours. The team not only worked together well, even from their differing backgrounds, but took home 2nd place and $150 prize.

2nd Place Design

Students were able to attend lectures every evening by phenomenal architects like Michel Rojkind, who gave a memorable speech about design and practice problems in the architecture world and Alfred von Bachmayr who started World Hands Project.

One of the highlights is always the New Years Eve Beaux Arts Ball. This past year's them was "Recylced," showcasing clothes made from recycled materials, recylced prom dresses and some vintage wear.

The most amazing part of the conference was the energy felt and the inspiration from the workshops and lectures. Students left the conference with new partnerships, confidence to improve their schools and knowledge to improve their careers.

Northeast Fall Quad: Toronto

2008-11-26T11:39:00.000-05:00

AIAS members in Toronto

Capitol Dome Tours x2

2008-11-14T09:57:00.003-05:00

For those of you who weren't able to go on a tour of the capitol dome you can still check out the view from the top by checking out the album online. Thanks for your interest!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2049617&l=cf0a7&id=21203524

Upcoming Events

2008-11-05T14:01:00.003-05:00

Forum info meeting:

Thursday November 6th, 12 noon in Miller Exhibition Space

Beaux Arts Ball Committee Meeting:

Thursday November 13th, 12 noon in Mezzanine Lounge

Capitol Tours Confirmation

2008-10-22T00:38:00.010-04:00

Several Spots are still available for the tours today and tomorrow! If interest email us at aiasatcua@gmail.com. If your name is listed here your should have received a confirmation email with exact details.

Spots were reserved based on the time you sent your request via email, your time preference and your AIAS membership status. (See the 45 dollars was worth it! and if you're not a member you can still join!) The following people have spots reserved for the Capitol tours:

Wednesday October 22nd

11 am Capitol Dome Tour FULL

Stacey Carbone
Adam Achrati
Amanda Cross
Craig Toocheck
Spencer Udelson
Ryan Gebhart
Marcus Johnson (leader)

12 pm Capitol Dome Tour FULL

Andrew Laux
Nina Africa (leader)
Marisa Colligan
Adam Greene
Philip Goolkasian
Charles McClellan
George Todorovic

2 pm Capitol Visitors Center Tour OPEN

Nina Africa & Mikey Ticzon (leader)
Charles McClellan
Alex Zondlo
Kyle O'Donnell
Laura Keating
Daniel Rojo
Open

Thursday October 23rd

11 am Capitol Dome Tour FULL

Hawra Esmaeil
Irene Jorden (leader)
Michelle Rinehart
Sashi Murthy
Amy Willard
Mary Lombardo
Patrick Morgan

2 pm Capitol Visitor Center Tour FULL

Matt Harenchar
Yousef Bushehri
Kevin Anaya
Marcus Johnson (leader)
Katie Miller
Shafiq Arif
Sean Scofield
Sarah Rinehart
Lauren Babiak
Fajer Alqattan
David Hathcock
Jessica Harrington
Annastassia Kowalski
Alyssa Franco

Beax Arts Ball Committee

2008-10-21T22:55:00.006-04:00

INTERESTED IN PARTY PLANNING?!?

The Beaux Arts Ball Committee is having a meeting on Wednesday, October 29 at 12:00 pm in the AIAS office in the Mezzanine.

This is a great and exciting event! Faculty, staff, and students look forward to this every year. We would like as much student involvement as possible, because without your thoughts and ideas, Beaux Arts Ball wouldn't be a success.

If you have any questions, email Kristin Lipinoga at k.lipinoga@gmail.com.

Freedom by Design

2008-10-21T22:49:00.005-04:00

There will be a Freedom by Design (FBD) General Meeting on Wednesday, October 22, 2008 at 6:30 pm in the Locraft Room.

FBD has several projects and they are very excited to start! Please come to the meeting and be involved in a great outreach organization.

Just a reminder: Since FBD is an orginization under AIAS, its members must be AIAS members as well. If you haven't already, please fill out an AIAS Membership Form and put it in the AIAS mailbox in the front office.

If you have any questions, email Sam Weaver or Jessie Euler.

Pumpkin Carving Contest

2008-10-21T22:37:00.008-04:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

What: Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest
Who: AIAS & CUArch
When: Friday, October 31, 2008 at 6:00 pm
Where: Judging takes place on the front steps of the Crough Center

AIAS is sposnoring the CUArch Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest! It is open to the entire University so anyone can enter. Feel free to purchase a pumpkin or buy one from AIAS. All pumpkins must be carved and ready at 6 pm on Halloween. This is a fun and creative relief from all of your architecture related stresses. Faculty members will pick winners and those who are lucky will receive prizes!

If you have any questions, email us at AIASatCUA@gmail.com.

General Meeting

2008-10-21T22:32:00.003-04:00

Hi guys!

Just to let you know that the next General Meeting will be on Thursday, October 30th at 6:15 pm. The location will be determined soon, so watch out for emails and updates!

Also, committees are in full swing. The chairs run those meetings and if you're still interested in being involved, send me an email.

If you have any questions please let one of the officers know. Thanks!

US Capitol Dome Tours

2008-10-21T16:57:00.003-04:00

The Capitol Dome Tours are tomorrow!

Early this afternoon AIAS received confirmation that CUArch students will have an exclusive tour of the US Capitol Dome (not available to the general public), tomorrow Wednesday October 22nd and Thursday October 23rd!

You will get to climb up inside the dome and look over Washington, DC! Check out the sweet stuff you can see online at http://www.flickr.com/photos/justindc/152756592/in/set-72157594144394760/.

To reserve your spot email us at aiasatcua@gmail.com with your name and first and second time preference. (Please make sure to attend your advising session if there is a conflict.) It is first come, first serve so please don’t delay. AIAS members with paid memberships get priority. Faculty spots for those not advising students will also on a first come first serve basis.

We will send out a confirmation email at 9:30 pm this evening with the lists for tomorrow’s tours.

Tour Times and Dates:

Wednesday October 22, 2008

11:00 am Capitol Dome Tour

Leave Catholic at 10:15 am, return by 12:15 pm

12:00 pm Capitol Dome Tour – Visit with Architect of the Capitol, Stephen T. Ayers

Leave Catholic at 11:15 am, return by 1:15 pm

2:00 pm Capitol Visitors Center Tour

Leave Catholic at 1:30 pm, return by 3:00 pm

Thursday October 23rd, 2008

11:00 am Capitol Dome Tour

Leave Catholic at 10:15 am, return by 12:15 pm

2:00 pm Capitol Visitors Center Tour

Leave Catholic at 1:30 pm, return by 3:00 pm

The Architect of the Capitol also offered us a tour of the Capitol Visitors Center, the brand new addition to the US Capitol designed by Washington firm RTKL. You can see more about the CVC by visiting http://dcmetrocentric.com/2008/04/15/exclusive-pictures-of-the-capitol-visitors-center/ or http://www.aoc.gov/cvc/project_info/index.cfm.
I visited it over the summer and it is definitely worth the time, especially if you are interested in how modern architecture can be introduced into historic buildings.

Also the 12 pm tour tomorrow will have an opportunity to meet the Acting Architect of the Capitol, Stephen T. Ayers, who is in charge of all the buildings on Capitol Hill the US Capitol, Supreme Court and US Botanic Garden.

We also need tour group leaders as exec board members can’t be at each tour. Let me know if you want to help out.

Questions? aiasatcua@gmail.com

Hope to see you all there!

Marcus Johnson
CUA AIAS Vice President

AIAS Habitat for Humanity Day Trip

2008-09-26T09:48:00.002-04:00

GET Hammered!

Join AIAS for a Habitat for Humanity day trip to Arundel, Maryland on Saturday October 4th to build stuff and help provide quality housing for low income residents.

Sign ups will be posted Monday September 29th at 9 am on the back of the Miller Space in the Main Hall of the Crough Center. This event is reserved exclusively for architecture students.
AIAS members with paid memberships get priority in sign ups meaning available spaces will first go to AIAS members and then to other architecture students. There are only 10 spots so sign up fast!

Those who are attending the event will be emailed more specific instructions during the week.

Questions? email us at aiasatcua@gmail.com.

Thanks CUA Habitat for Humanity!

This week at CUArch...

2008-09-22T23:42:00.002-04:00

Here are some things going on in our school.

Freedom By Design is having two meetings this week. One on Tuesday, September 23 at 1pm and another on Wednesday, September 24 at 6:30 pm. Be on the lookout for flyers around the school.

AIAS is having a meeting on Wednesday, September 24 right after the FBD meeting.

Membership forms are due on Wendesday, September 24 in the AIAS mailbox in the front office.

The travel committee is sponsoring trips to visit graduate schools. Please email Craig Toocheck (82toocheck@cua.edu) suggestions of different cities, grad schools, ideas, etc. If you are interested in participating, let us know!

Habitat for Humanity is sponsoring a day trip just for AIAS members! It is on Saturday, October 4. Keep an eye out for flyers for more details.

If you have any other questions, feel free to email any of the officers or AIAS (aiasatcua@gmail.com).

Freedom By Design

2008-09-22T23:39:00.002-04:00

Good news! CUA's chapter of Freedom by Design (FBD) is in full swing. We've got a great team this year and they are very enthusiastic about being involved within the university and the community. If you are still interested, you can contact Sam Weaver (67weaver@cua.edu) or Jessie Euler (17euler@cua.edu). AIAS will keep you updated on everything that FBD is up to.

NCARB came to Catholic

2008-09-17T10:29:00.003-04:00

So maybe you decided you would rather have Pryz food than the free pizza at the NCARB info session...

Regardless you can still get the details provided by NCARB about the steps to becoming an Architect after school. The presenter encouraged attendees to contact her with questions, her contact info is below. She would be happy to answer any questions you might have whether you were able to attend the session or not. I would also encourage you to check out the website at ncarb.org which has all the materials she gave as handouts.

NCARB Contact:

Rachel Allegra Kros, AIA
Manager, Programs
NCARB 1801 K Street NW Suite 700K
Washington, DC 20006
202 783 6500 Main
202 461 3945 Direct
202 783 0290 Fax
rkros@ncarb.org

Thanks to all those who attended, and would anyone be interested in a LEED certification info session?

AIAS Update

2008-09-04T12:15:00.002-04:00

Hey guys! If you weren't able to attend our first general meeting, fear not. Here are some things we went over.

Membership forms are due on September 24. Give them to one of the officers or put it in the AIAS mailbox in the front office.

Committee sign up sheets are available. If you are interested in being involved in any one of our committees, give me your name and email. Here are our current committees: Beaux Arts Ball, Forum and Travel, Newsletter, Pecha Kucha, Quad Conference, and the T-Shirt Design Competition. If you would like to participate or not be in a committee, let me know and we'll keep you posted.

We have many fun programs going on this semester. Some things to look out for are the Annual BBQ, an NCARB presentation on the Intern Development Program (IDP), Quad Conference in Toronto, and Forum in Denver.

I hope the start of the school year went well for everyone and I hope to see more of you!

Member List for Job Fair

2008-08-25T19:36:00.001-04:00

Member List as of 03/24/09 for early admittance to Career Fair:

Adam Achrati
Joseph Addeo
Giannina Africa
Fajer Alqattan
Marisa Aschettino
Corey August
Lauren Babiak
Alexander Bautz
Lauren Blodgett
Vincent Bracco
Yousef Bushehri
Sheila Cahill
Stacey Carbone
Branden Carter
Anna Cero
Marisa Colligan
Amanda Cowan
Stephanie Coxe
Amanda Cross
Rebecca Crow
Jose DaSilva Guerreiro
Lindsey Dehenzel
Matthew DiFrisco
Alexander DiMichele
Erica Donnelly
Brian Duffley
Kristen Dunham
Mateusz Dzierzanowski
Hawra Esmaeil
Elizabeth Esposito
Jessica Euler
Devin Farro
Justin Fosbenner
Alyssa Franco
Christina Franz
Jacqueline Freedman
Philip Goolkasian
William Gorman
Roberto Granados
Adam Greene
Matthew Harenchar
Val Hawkins
Erik Herman
Christian Hernandez
Alec Higinbotham
Michael Hoak
Joshua Humphries
Michael Iskandar
Marcus Johnson
Lauren Jomes
Irene Jorden
Kirk Kasa
Gentry Kowall
John Lang
Andrew Laux
Kirstin Lipinoga
Mary Lombardo
Gabriela Lontos
Matthew Luongo
Andrea Mango
Donald Moore
Patrick Morgan
Deanna Murphy
Sashi Murthy
Brandon Newcomer
Lisa Nucera
Aryan Ofeany
Joshua Orsini
Antonio Paz
Sandra Pinto Visalot
Abbie Rolando
Hilary Roth
Stephanie Snopek
Teresa Taylor
Michael Ticzon
Craig Toocheck
Megan Voorhees
Samuel Weaver
Maria Whyne
Amy Willard
Erin Woods
Brigid Wright

If you're name isn't on this list and you were expecting it to be please email Nina immediately at 82africa@cua.edu. Otherwise you will not receive this exclusive member benefit.

My Freshman Year

2008-08-11T22:28:00.003-04:00

Hey there cuAIAS Bloggers! My name is Michael, but feel free to call me Mikey. I will be a sophomore this upcoming fall. I want to commend you for choosing such a rigorous major to pursue. Architecture will be an arduous yet creative road ahead of you with countless of opportunities at your fingertips. I know this may sound a little cliché, but it honestly does feel like it was only yesterday when I entered CUA's campus and started my college career as a freshman. All the experiences and friends I've had this past year are without a doubt timeless memories. Recollecting on a few would simply take days, but let me try to give you a few snippets from each semester…

Fall semester definitely started a little earlier than expected, but it was no biggie at all. The courses I took that were relevant to architecture were ARCH 100 - Introduction to the Designed Environment and ARCH 135 - History of Architecture I. Both classes were absolutely enlightening; introducing me to the power of a sketchbook. ARCH 100 allowed me to practice sketching and all sorts of techniques to help me along. There were several lectures from very influential people (some even architects), movies, and demonstrations that were unbelievably valuable. ARCH 136 exposed me to architecture from all over the world. I know it sounds so boring, but just sitting through class made me so excited. I felt like the class took you back in time and to the exact location of each piece. It was also great studying a few places that I traveled to before! The assignments, projects, and tests are demanding for both classes, but without a doubt, anyone can handle it. During the fall, I also got involved with the school's chapter of AIAS - the American Institute of Architecture Students. It's a small organization, but that allowed me to get close to the rest of the members. We discussed several topics, not only Architecture, arranged a few events during the fall like cool “movie nights” and the organization itself was another resource for great events, volunteer opportunities, and competitions around the area!

For the spring semester, I took ARCH 104 - Introduction to Architectural Presentation/Graphics, ARCH 115 - Introduction to Digital Tools, and ARCH 136 - History of Architecture II. ARCH 136 is definitely like ARCH 135, just later time periods. ARCH 115 was absolutely so much fun! You get to use your personal laptop and mess around with the plethora of programs that you will encounter throughout a career in architecture. I felt like a savvy, technical nerd because I was actually learning how to use such complex software programs! The work and projects didn't feel like horrible, agonizing tasks; it was fun more than anything. Now, ARCH 104 was the real shocker. This was my studio time. First, we were divided into groups of ten or so with TA's (Teacher Assistants) managing us. Then, we were assigned to our specific location in the building. I was ecstatic, just jumping off the walls when I got my own space, desk , and supplies. But the work and assignments came right from the get go, usually announced in the exhibition space. Everything assigned seemed overwhelming and confusing at first, but my TA was there for me with my never-ending questions. The work is positively hard and time consuming, but nonetheless, manageable. You must, must, must manage your time well and pace yourself and your work. Sleepless nights are avoidable, but that wasn't the case for me sometimes. I honestly didn't mind though, you usually weren't alone. Once you're done a project, you have juries to present your work. Now, they were intimidating at first, however you get use to them. A jury is a chance for you just to explain your ideas and processes during the time it took you to complete whatever assignment. If you're happy with your work and confident, it's just simple talking. In studio, I felt like I was an actual architect, it was pretty awesome. Being able to work whenever you wanted to, having your own workspace, and of course being around your friends were all just phenomenal! One last thing to include about spring semester is the Beaux Arts Ball. This was a fabulous event out in the city, planned by AIAS, where you dance, dine and enjoy the company of your friends and teachers all dressed to impress! This year it was held at the fantastic, ultra hip Lotus Lounge. It was frankly a blast and totally great just to sit back, eat, relax, and mingle!

Now, I know that I am sounding pretty jolly about my freshman year and everything sounds sugar coated, but I just had an unforgettable, great year that I cannot complain one bit! Good people, good experiences, good memories that have all made me realize how happy architecture makes me feel. Each of you will have your own individual journey at Catholic, but I can assure you it won't be less than ordinary.

“Dare to disturb the Universe.”
----Robert Cormier, The Chocolate War

Me encanta Barcelona

2008-07-22T20:47:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! I'm the President of AIAS at CUA for the 2008-2009 year and I spent the spring semester studying abroad in Barcelona. Just wanted to share some of my experience!

The Mediterranean breeze blew across the beach as our group walked to the glinting fish sculpture designed by Frank Gehry. It’s the middle of January and seventeen of us, all architecture students from Catholic University, began to explore our new home in Barcelona. Lindsey Dehenzel, one of the juniors studying here, called the beginning of our trip our “honeymoon period” filled with naïve bliss and joy in everything we find. Slowly as the weeks passed we waited for life and reality to fall around us, and for our love for the city to dim, signaling an end to the honeymoon.

In Barcelona, we took classes under the direction of Eric Jenkins and Christy Cole, both traveling with us from CUA. Eric ran our studio class, while Christy directed our sketching and field trip adventures. They worked together to create an incredible experience for us as we learn about urban design. We were able to walk through the old parts of the city and soak in the sunny Placas and courtyards in the morning and then dissect urban history with Cece Tham, a Harvard graduate and practicing architect in Barcelona, in the afternoon. They layer their classes so that all our learning is very cohesive.

We visit iconic architecture by Mies van de Rohe, Callatrava, and Gaudi. One day we even traveled below the street level to explore the Roman ruins of the city that have been built upon. Our classes also explored the dynamics of other urban environments, through extended field trips. We had a week of touring Spain; exploring Madrid and its famous housing projects; Cordoba and its Arab bath; Granada and the Alhambra; and finally, the historical and pastoral Seville. Our adventures also took us to Morocco in the Spring, a highlight of the semester.

On the roof of Sagrada Familia by Gaudi on our hard hat tour

We enjoyed our café con leches and croissants, and most afternoons we stopped by the Boccaria market to pick up fresh produce for dinner. We picked up wine at the corner market for a few Euros and every evening we looked out over the Plaza Universitat and its ever changing inhabitants; whether they were skateboarders, acrobats, Evangelical Christians, or just families strolling with their children on bicycles. The city has a pace much slower than D.C.’s. In some cases, like when we wanted our Internet fixed, the lack of urgency is a nuisance. Most of the time, however, we just enjoyed our siestas.

During our free time on the weekends we explored more of the city. One of the first weekends in the city we took an adventure up to Montjuic, the Mountain of the Jews, to explore a
fortress built in the 17th century. The view was amazing. We could see the whole city before us and as we began to travel down the mountain, we venture through the Olympic Village and the MNAC, Barcelona’s National Art Museum, and finally arriving at Mies van de Rohe’s Pavilion. The iconic building makes for a graceful walk-through experience.

Skipping around the MNAC

Being in Europe we also take the time to country hop. I was able to visit out other program in Rome one weekend to celebrate my birthday. I was able to explore the history of the city and sample Italian culture and cuisine. My Easter break was spent in the Muslim county of Turkey, discovering the beauty of the ancient mosques of Istanbul.

When we stayed in the city we'd sometimes go out to enjoy the Barcelona nightlife- clubs that spill out onto the beach, or pubs that line pedestrian streets and spill into each other. If you come home before 5 AM, you’re obviously not a local. Locals themselves are usually friendly and considerate, especially since the majority of us absolutely butcher their language.

After almost four months in this "foreign land" I decided that I have found a perfect match with Barcelona and consider it another home. The honeymoon lasted until the day I had to leave and I hope to return soon, to visit the friends I made and the city I fell in love with.

To learn more about our love for this wonderful city you can read our student blogs. Links for all the student’s blogs can be found at http://cuabarcelona2008.blogspot.com/….and since I’m a total nerd and self promoter, read mine: jordenbcn2008.blogspot.com.

Ciao, Roma, ciao!

2008-07-22T18:49:00.000-04:00

In January, I packed two suitcases and headed for what would undoubtedly be one of the best experiences of my life. I was excited, yet anxious. I did not know what lay ahead of me. I was one of nineteen architecture students who had the opportunity to study in Rome for one semester. Overall, the program was successful. We took advantage of our location and used the city as our classroom. Everyday, we were out in the city learning about its urban development and its history. The history of Rome is reflected in its architecture. Ancient Roman buildings are preserved while modern buildings are being constructed. We also had overnight field trips to Florence & Siena, northern Italy and southern Italy. Everyday was a learning experience. There was so much to see and take in. During spring break, I visited Basel, Switzerland and Munich and at the end of the semester, I went to London. The cities were architecturally "refreshing". It was exciting to see modern European architecture that was different from Rome.

Our apartments were in Campo de Fiori, right in the heart of the historic center of Rome. During the day, the Campo is an open air market where fresh food is always available. Not only is Campo de Fiori known for its market, it is also known for its nightlife. Our convenient location provided us with the opportunity to explore the city with ease. We were a five minute walk from the Pantheon and about a twenty minute walk from the Vatican. Italians are very hospitable and friendly. Talking to the locals was always fun. Most know how to speak English, but it was always appreciated when conversations were in Italian. My Italian was a bit shaky, but I soon gained confidence and my speaking skills improved throughout the semester. The city is very busy and, to my surprise, fast paced. It was a little intimidating to walk around by myself, but after a while I was fine with venturing out on my own. We walked 70% of the time. When places were too far, we took the buses. By the end of the semester, I'm sure we walked the entire city.

Four months was not enough. I didn't want to leave. I loved being immersed in the Italian culture and living in Rome. The memories will stay close to my heart. All the stories and adventures throughout Italy and Europe would fill this blog up and I've definitely learned a lot about architecture and about myself. I am very grateful for this opportunity to be in Rome. Without the program, I don't think I would have done everything that we did. It added to my love for architecture as well as my passion for traveling.

Roma, tu sei il mio amore.

Grassroots Leadership Conference 08

2008-07-22T12:29:00.001-04:00

From July 17-20th Irene and I attended the Grassroots Leadership Conference here in Washington DC. We met so many cool people!

Each year officers from all of the national AIAS chapters converge on DC to learn more about how to enhance membership experience, leadership and exchange ideas to improve our schools. We met the new officers from University of Maryland and Howard University. Next year we will be collaborating on at least one after studio social as well as attending the Northeast Quad conference at UMD in spring 2008. Oh yeah and the Fall Northeast Conference is in Toronto Canada!

The thing that stuck with us from the conference was the enormity of AIAS. Across the nation there are so many people just like us, with studio and professors that face most of the challenges we do at CUA. I also never realized the professional connections AIAS provides. We met the leadership from national organizations like NCARB and the president of AIA. Being in DC gives our chapter a great opportunity to take advantage of these connections. Grassroots taught us how to make the most of AIAS at the National level. Look out for new events and more about Grassroots in the first few weeks of fall semester!

Hello from Exec Board 2008-2009!

2008-07-21T21:37:00.000-04:00

Hello! This is Catholic University's AIAS official Blog, run by the exec board members. Over the year we hope to bring you information about AIAS, the school of architecture, competitions, National events, and links to the professional world.

First off I want to introduce you to your exec board for the 2008-2009 school year.

Irene Jorden
President
44jorden@cua.edu

Marcus Johnson
Vice President
20johnsm@cua.edu

Nina Africa
Secretary
82africa@cua.edu

Mikey Ticzon
Treasurer
04ticzon@cua.edu

Mateusz Dzierzanowski
Program Planning Coordinator
61dzierzanow@cua.edu

Please feel free to contact any of us if you have questions, comments or concerns. Also check out the links on the right hand side of the blog to learn more about AIAS at a national level and architecture at our university.