America’s Hidden Gem (TM)

Hi readers! It’s #FutureArchitectFriday. A day to celebrate those pushing themselves to becoming licensed architects.

Name: Joneé Fitzpatrick

Educational Status: I am currently a graduate with a B.S in Architecture.  

How would you describe your experience as a Black Architecture student?

My experience as a black arch student wasn’t the best, my first year in the major I had a studio professor trying to get me removed from the major due to me missing a day of class because of a family emergency which lead to me having to travel back home for. After that I never had professors truly care about me as their student as I saw they did for others. It made me focus and work harder. I faced hardships outside of school so balancing because my main focus.  

Why do you want to get your licensed?

I want to get licensed because we need more representation for Black people. I love my career choice and to further my career and education I need licensure. 

Biggest inspiration/influence?

My biggest inspiration/influence has been my mom. She’s not in the field but she’s support me since I was 9 and told her my goal of becoming an architect.

How important is representation?

Representation to me is top of the list important. Growing up I wasn’t exposed to architecture as is and when I was it was in setting where nobody looked like me and I would ask, why? 

Favorite quote/poem/song/etc.?

My favorite song is Kanye West – Devil in a New Dress