America’s Hidden Gem (TM)

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

Name: Willie Goliday II

Hometown: Greenville, Mississippi

Educational Status: A.A.S. & B.S. in Architectural Engineering Technology and Master of Architecture

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

It was challenging navigating a space like that. I was only one of a handful of black students in the entire Architecture school that I attended for my Master of Architecture degree. I never let what I heard limit what I could do, because I knew I went into the program wanting to just be a better designer. I achieved that and the respect from those around me just by doing so.

Why do you want to get your licensed?

My main purpose of wanting to be a Licensed Architect is wanting to realize things that will be here well beyond me. Not only that, but to realize these designs that will change the way someone experiences a space. I never thought that one space should be subject to one purpose, but to allow that space to have its distinction solidified by the user or users. 

Biggest inspiration/influence?

My biggest inspiration has to be Virgil Abloh. The reason being is he did not just stop at being one thing or creating under one title, but he stretched his talents to many different disciplines. 

How important is representation? 

VERY IMPORTANT. When I saw that this platform (America’s Hidden Gem) existed, I was very excited! To see these successful professionals and upcoming professionals that look like me and being able to start following them for daily inspiration is amazing. Seeing that definitely is reenergizing.

Favorite quote/poem/song/etc.?

There was a statement by Jay-Z in his Studio Session: Jay-Z’s “Magna Carta Holy Grail” video that has stuck with me since I watched it, “We need to write the new rules.”