Throughout my time at Belmont, the BELL Core program played a supporting role in my development, but it wasn't the sole driver of my growth as an architecture student. While the BELL Core provided a broader academic context, the majority of my advancement in architecture came from the hands-on experiences and technical learning within the architecture program itself. That being said, the BELL Core courses did help to frame my perspective, offering valuable insights that complemented my major.

Personal Development:

Courses like "Sociology" and "Understanding the Bible" helped me reflect on my personal values, but my biggest personal growth came from navigating the challenges of architecture itself. The intense project deadlines, the collaboration with peers, and the process of learning how to creatively solve problems were the primary sources of my development. The BELL Core courses encouraged me to think about how my values and personal life intersect with my work, but the true growth came from being tested in my discipline.

Enhancement to the Study of Architecture:

In terms of enhancing my architectural studies, courses like “Italy: The Power of Image" certainly deepened my understanding of design. Still, it was through my studio work and architectural theory courses that I honed my skills. The BELL Core gave me a broader lens to appreciate different styles and cultural influences, but the architecture program itself pushed me to refine my design process, as seen in my recent project at Belmont. The core architectural curriculum provided the technical expertise and creative challenges that truly advanced my thinking. My Wellness courses, “Mental Health” and Lifetime Fitness,” also introduced me to how technological advancements and sustainability intersect with architectural practice. While these weren’t direct architectural courses, they helped me understand the importance of innovation in design and how we can use technology responsibly to create environmentally conscious spaces.

Ecological Responsibility, Equity Work, and Vocational Discernment: 

The BELL Core did open my eyes to more significant issues like sustainability and social equity through courses such as "Environmental Science" and "Philosophy." However, it was through my architectural coursework and projects that I saw these principles come to life. Designing buildings that incorporate sustainable features and thinking about how architecture can create equitable spaces are topics that became central to my work, but these ideas took root primarily within my major. The BELL Core provided context, but the deeper exploration happened through my architectural design studios.

Life Outside of Architecture:

In addition to my architecture studies and the BELL Core courses, my experiences outside of the classroom have also shaped who I am. I took a screenwriting course that developed my storytelling skills and gave me a new appreciation for structure and narrative. This is also relevant in architecture, where every design tells a story. Similarly, my acting course pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped build my confidence, teaching me how to present ideas and engage with others more effectively. Joining the chess club helped me sharpen my strategic thinking, which complements the problem-solving aspects of architecture. Outside of academic work, I’ve always enjoyed writing stories for fun, allowing me to explore creativity in a different medium and enhancing my ability to think imaginatively in both writing and design. These activities outside of architecture gave me a well-rounded approach to problem-solving and creativity that continues to influence my work today.

Looking back, while the BELL Core offered a well-rounded educational experience, my true growth and development were driven by the architecture program itself. The combination of technical challenges, creative problem-solving, and professional preparation shaped my trajectory. The BELL Core provided a wider context that encouraged reflection and a more comprehensive view of the world, but it was architecture that truly defined my Belmont experience and prepared me for my future career.