America’s Hidden Gem (TM)

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

Name: Petreen Thomas 

Hometown: Hopewell Junction, NY

Educational Status: Senior at the University at Buffalo

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

I would say that it’s both a tiring and rewarding experience. Tiring because there are days that it feels like this major isn’t meant for me due to the lack of representation in the classes and schoolwork content. But it’s rewarding to see yourself and others like you still pushing through and even changing the narrative.

Why do you want to get your licensed?

Mainly because I’m an overachiever. But also because I want to be utilized for my brain and not my gender and race that could potentially be used for fulfilling a diversity quota. Knowledge is power and I believe there’s a lot of power in being licensed. 

Biggest inspiration/influence?

My current biggest inspiration in Kim Dowdell. Her passion to revitalize her hometown, Detroit, and other cities to improve the quality of life for people is very admirable. She’s also broaden my perspective through which that could be achieved. Whether it’s through architecture or government policies or real estate development. 

How important is representation? 

Representation shows that you belong or that you have a place or that your dreams aren’t defined by your identity. For example, I’m the first in my family to pursue architecture. I remember when I started going to college, my little cousin would tell me that she wants to become an architect like me and would ask me questions about college when I got back home. Seeing me do it showed her that she could too. That’s why representation is important.

Favorite quote/poem/song/etc.?

My favorite quote is “Nothing is impossible, the word itself says I’m possible.”