International Spotlight: Syd Gaskins

The IARc international studies program provides our students with the opportunity to experience and participate in design practices through a different culture. Students in IARc not only get to learn new ways of designing, but also build relationships with peers from around the world, travel, and participate in school activities.

Syd Gaskins, [4th] year, traveled to Belfast, Ireland in the spring of 2011. She described her study abroad as, “One of the most rewarding experiences I have had the chance to do, and would go back in a second”. As a fellow IARc Student who has studied abroad, I couldn’t agree with her more!

Where to go is one of the hardest decisions to make before packing your bags for a semester long stay. Considerations include program curricula and location. When I asked Syd why she chose Ireland, she rattled off a long list faster than my hand could write. Two main points she stated were, “I wanted to be in or near Europe so that I could travel easily, as well as see a range of architecture from many countries.”

Syd chose to study at The University of Ulster, in Belfast. She noted that their design program was very similar to UNCG’s so it was extremely easy to blend in with the other students. She really enjoyed the way everyone collaborated on projects, and felt very much a part of their community. Syd said that, “The program at Ulster really helped me grow in my skill sets because I got to see a range of architecture from the world on the trips we took to other countries”. She further described all the places she visited including; France, Spain, the Netherlands, England and Switzerland. When I asked her about her favorite journey, she said “Without a doubt, it had to be Paris. My parents and brother came to visit me there, which was good to get a piece of home since I had been gone for such a long time. I also fell in love with the architecture and saw influential buildings like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe”.

When Syd wasn’t off living the life of a traveler, she lived on campus in Belfast. She describes Belfast as “A smaller sized city, but one that had many interesting stores and restaurants to visit, so every day there was something to do”. She also revealed that the architecture of the town is a mix of old buildings with charm, and modern ones that light up the landscape. Whatever the day was, Syd always had an exciting adventure right in her own backyard.

                               

Gaining a broader understanding of design is one of the greatest advantages of studying abroad. Since Syd studied in a multilingual country, she expressed herself through design work, also improving her communication skills.  Syd explained, “I really got to understand architecture in a different way by getting to see international buildings that most people only get the chance to study [in a book]. Seeing it in person made it that much more amazing and influential. “

                             

After hearing all of her inspiring experiences, I asked her why more students should study abroad. She expressed with a smile on her face, “It is an experience in culture, design, life, travel and independence. Everyone should  have the chance to study abroad, because it will truly change your life.”

Contributed by Kelsey Rhode [4th] Year, Photos by Syd Gaskins

Advertisement