about me JUAN LOPEZ

e: jlope152@asu.edu linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/juanlopezgo/

I am an Environmental Design senior at Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts. I plan to further my education at Arizona State University in order to obtain a Masters Degree in Architecture. As a student who admires architecture, I take every opportunity to explore new environments. I originally studied civil engineering, however, found my true passion once I came across architecture and design. Sustainability is the new way of design. I believe that creating an organic, aesthetic, and resilient community is design excellence. I also believe that through traveling, I will gather new experiences and understanding. Eventually, this will lead me to be a great architect.

Why

Arizona has been recognized as one of the states that has experienced some of the largest decreases in the homeless population over the past few years. The unhomed residents suffer greatly from the lack of resources and opportunities to get their lives back on track. It has become a global issue that can be addressed at a local scale. Oftentimes, they live in unsanitary and unsafe conditions with high risk of exposure to viruses, infections, drugs, malnutrition, poor hygiene, and crime. They often sleep out in the public streets marking them unsafe and unpleasurable to see. These streets are also polluted with their belongings.This issue has stalled communities from prospering since it often drives investors and developers away.