Ryan Russell, an architecture major from California, will graduate with a minor in business and plans to attend Tulane University to pursue a master's in architecture.
I am so grateful that I have got the chance to work, collaborate, and form lasting relationships with most of you. I have enjoyed seeing how all of our work has evolved since design and communication I.
Tell us about your involvement and/or student leadership roles in and/or outside of ENVD.
As a four-year undergraduate, I participated in multiple AIAS events and joined the Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. I was a part of the executive board for two years and held the positions of Marketing Chair, and Vice President.
What inspired you to come to ENVD when choosing your school?
When applying for schools my mom had actually found this program and told me about it. I researched more and more and was so excited to see a program where my interest in drawing could be put to the test! When I first visited Boulder, I drove up to Chautauqua and immediately knew I would find a home at CU.
What is one of the greatest experiences or lessons from your time at CU Boulder that you'll carry with you into the next chapter of your life?
I think the greatest experience was leaving home and really forcing myself to go out and meet new people and build new relationships. it was scary at first but I soon realized that most of these other freshmen were in the same situation as me. To really go outside of my comfort zone in a completely different state was a big step. I liked it so much I have decided to do it again.
Based on what you know now, what is your best piece of advice for other students?
Ask for help! Do not be afraid to approach fellow students and ask what they think of your work. There have been countless times where I have made new friends and found things about myself as a designer, that I never would have known if I didn't ask.
Describe one of your favorite memories.
I think my favorite memories were always the Rocky Mountain Showdown. Partially because it was always the first college football game of the year but, it always happened on my birthday weekend. I remember always driving down in a big bus with my friends and we would just have such a great time
What does graduating from college represent for you?
It represents the next big chapter of my life. I come from a loving family that puts value in the steps it takes to find personal success. For me, one of those steps was to graduate college and receive a degree in a field I love.
What are your plans beyond graduation?
I plan to continue my architectural education at Tulane University this summer with the goal of a master's in architecture.