B/a+p Magazine Spring 2014

Page 30

Student Profile William Becker (MArch/MUP ’17) Brings Enthusiasm and Discipline to Dual Degree Study by Catherine Maier (Architecture BS ’15) William Becker, a dual Master of Architecture and Master of Urban Planning candidate, balances a full schedule of courses while working under Associate Professor Samina Raja in the school’s nationally recognized “Food Lab.” He’s also the first recipient of the Buffalo School’s Faculty and Staff Student Scholarship.

Planning and architecture students alike can learn a lot from William Becker; his enthusiasm, courage and time management skills are pivotal lessons for every young designer. Becker did not start out in the field of design when he entered the University at Buffalo – he was a pharmacy major. However, Becker always felt a certain draw to the realm of architecture and planning. He took a chance, switched majors and charted the course to a bachelor’s in environmental design with a minor in architecture. / BELOW William Becker at work in his fall 2013 graduate architecture studio. Photo by Jose Pesantez-Rojas

Becker attributes much of his success to the guidance of his professors at the Buffalo School. One such professor was Kathryn Foster, former associate professor of urban and regional planning and director of the UB Regional Institute. After hearing an inspiring lecture by Foster in one of his planning courses, Becker took the risk and approached her. The connection would soon lead to an internship at the Regional Institute and a valuable mentor relationship.


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