ABOUT
Born and raised in Portland, Maine, I consciously chose to pursue an architectural education at the University of Maine at Augusta in order to learn about giving back to the Maine community through design. While Maine is my home, my roots grow in Bulgaria where my family originates. Growing up as a first generation American means existing on the edge of two cultures, living within two completely different worlds. This influences the way one sees the world and for myself, how I see the potential of design in the built environment.
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EXPERIENCE
Architectural Associate | May 2021 - Present
As an architectural associate, I prepare architectural drawings and renderings for buildings, furniture, and other various structures through the use of 2D and 3D software.
Assistant Project Manager | May 2018 - May 2021
As an assistant project manager, I organized the efforts of a construction project by working on job close-out, submittal review, punch list items, budget/cost analysis, and estimation.
Chapter President | May 2018 - May 2022
Throughout my time with AIAS, I have served as Secretary, Vice President, and currently, Chapter President, promoting an inclusive network of peers that learn from, support, and drive one another. Most notably, I worked to establish a mentorship program and helped organize professional development events such as firm tours.
(DEI) Student Representative | December 2020 - May 2022
As a DEI student representative, I have worked to rethink and redesign bathrooms that are inclusive and surveying the general student body to assess the campus’ inclusivity.
AWARDS
AIA MAINE: DESIGN EXCELLENCE AWARD
Student Unbuilt Category 2023
Work includes Unwalling Architecture: thesis work regarding how concepts of inclusivity can reimagine the U.S./Mexico border.
AIA MAINE: PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
Student Unbuilt Category 2022
Work includes Equity through Design: a studio design of a craft museum that promotes equity through the built environment.
ALPHA RHO CHI AWARD
University of Maine at Augusta: May 2022
Since 1931, the award has recognized graduating architecture students for their leadership, service, and what they offer the future of the profession.
3RD YEAR BOOK AWARD
University of Maine at Augusta: November 2020
Work includes Bridging Cultures: a studio design for a social housing project for a selected user group of immigrants migrating to Montpellier, France.
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