Following Her Passion
Leah-Sarah Clayton is a freshman at New York Institute of Technology, pursuing an education in New York Tech’s rigorous five-year B.Arch. program. The Box sat down with her to hear more about her plans for her time at New York Tech.
Why did you choose to study at New York Institute of Technology?
Two major factors I was looking for in a school was diversity and inclusion. I had to consider that this is a place I am going to be spending the next five years, at minimum. I wanted to become a part of a community where I could feel at home. A comfortable environment is the most productive kind for me. New York Tech seemed like it had this. The university is also highly proficient in the architecture department, which is perfect for me.
Why did you choose to study architecture?
This wasn’t my initial intention. Growing up, I took sciences in high school with the hopes of becoming a pediatrician, but I never really enjoyed myself.My motive for this was just my love for children.
All my life, though, I’ve been into the arts. Dancing, painting, and drawing are activities I still do today, and I suppose these traits are what eventually drew me to architecture. After discovering the field, I knew that this was something I would enjoy. I later learned that my father was also in the field for a while. He ultimately switched to computer engineering, but architecture is still something he enjoys.
What are you most looking forward to at New York Tech?
I am most excited to pursue my major. I can’t wait to experience the tasks and challenges this course of study holds for me. This is the first major leap in my life. I want to enjoy every bit.
How do you think your New York Tech education will help prepare you for the future?
One major factor I’m expecting is experience. Experiencing the qualities of the work world, such as deadlines, pressure, teamwork, independence, leadership, confidence, and so forth. I hope New York Tech will push and challenge me to think quickly on my feet and to hone in on what I want in the future. Deciding my major was the first step, and there is much more to achieve.
