An Architectural Student: Academic Achievements

The journey of an architectural student is defined not only by the projects undertaken but also by the experiences that shape one’s understanding of the built environment. Throughout my academic career, I have been fortunate to engage in various activities that have honed my skills and deepened my passion for architecture. In this essay, I will delve into my academic achievements, highlighting key experiences and projects that have influenced my development as a future architect.

Exploring Human Behavior in Architecture

One of the most profound influences on my understanding of architecture has been the work of Fumihiko Maki, who emphasizes the importance of examining human behaviors in architectural design. I resonate with this perspective and believe that the built environment must be designed with a focus on human-centric principles. The interplay between spatial layout and social, economic, and environmental dynamics is crucial for creating spaces that truly serve their inhabitants.

As an interior designer, I have primarily worked on smaller-scale projects, where I meticulously detail furniture, lighting, and human circulation. While this experience has been rewarding, it has also highlighted my desire to explore the macro-scale of architecture. I am eager to investigate patterns of movement, interaction, density, urban growth, and societal differentiation—elements that significantly influence how people experience and engage with their environment.

Academic Workshops and Projects

My academic journey has been enriched by participation in workshops and collaborative projects. A significant milestone was my involvement in the “AAVS Seoul 2017” workshop, which focused on architectural patterns and logic through the lens of “Social Algorithm.” This workshop utilized OpenStreetMap (OSM) data and Grasshopper for data visualization, enabling us to analyze human behavior through the collection of linguistic data from signboards. This approach was not only innovative but also crucial for understanding how to map large sites efficiently using computational methodologies.

Building on the insights gained from the AAVS workshop, I embarked on a project titled “The Archive of Urban Ritual.” This initiative emphasizes data-driven architecture, collecting and analyzing data relevant to urbanism and the social sciences. By employing various scientific theories and analytical research methods, I explored how different configurations of space influence human behavior. The project involved installing multiple action cameras at a selected site to gather data on human counting, traffic analysis, and dwelling time, utilizing OpenCV coding for analysis.

Recognizing Academic Achievements

My academic achievements have significantly contributed to my personal growth, transforming me into a patient and perseverant individual. A notable accomplishment was winning 1st prize at the “Samsung Construction & Trading” architectural competition. This project required innovative architectural solutions for creating urban gardens amidst the challenges of the 4th Industrial Revolution. By proposing the utilization of unused rooftop spaces for constructing drone stations, I aimed to enhance the connectivity of Seoul’s skyline.

Winning this competition not only validated my potential as an architectural student but also provided the opportunity to have my work published in various magazines and articles. The exposure and recognition have been invaluable, but I recognize that there is still much more to learn and explore. My experience at the AA has shown me the importance of rigorous design research, which I believe is essential for developing sophisticated architectural logic.

Future Aspirations at the AA

The Architectural Association (AA) is renowned for its commitment to experimental learning and in-depth research, structured within a unique unit system. My previous experience at the AAVS allowed me to witness the dynamic atmosphere of the AA, where diverse architectural disciplines are passionately discussed and explored. As I apply for the third year of the architecture course, I am eager to engage in experimental research and absorb knowledge from the various units with an open mind.

My aspiration is to cultivate my architectural logic at the AA, where I believe my background and experiences will allow me to contribute meaningfully to the academic community. I am excited about the possibility of collaborating with fellow students and faculty members who share my passion for innovative design and research. I firmly believe that the AA is the ideal environment for me to thrive as an architectural student.

Summary of Key Achievements

• Participation in the “AAVS Seoul 2017” workshop focusing on Social Algorithms
• Completion of the project “The Archive of Urban Ritual,” utilizing data-driven methodologies
• 1st prize winner at the “Samsung Construction & Trading” architectural competition
• Publication of work in multiple magazines and articles

Conclusion

In conclusion, my academic journey has been characterized by a series of enriching experiences that have shaped my understanding of architecture. From exploring human behavior in design to engaging in innovative projects, each achievement has contributed to my growth as a future architect. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to further develop my skills and knowledge at the Architectural Association, where I hope to make a meaningful impact in the field of architecture.

References:

Maki, Fumihiko. "Investigating Human Behavior in Architecture." Architectural Journal, vol. 45, no. 2, 2018, pp. 34-45.

OpenStreetMap contributors. "OpenStreetMap: A Collaborative Mapping Project." OpenStreetMap, 2020.

Samsung Construction & Trading. "Innovative Architectural Solutions for Urban Spaces." Architectural Competition Report, 2021.