Q&A with Vanessa
How did you choose architecture?
In 7th grade we had a mock job fair and evaluation that would direct students to discover career options or something like that. I wanted to “beat the system” and even that early in life I knew I wanted a career that involved class subjects that I liked or what came naturally to me, which at the time were Math and Art. I figured if I did something that I loved or that came natural to me, it would be easy, and I would have more time with friends, family, and hobbies…pause for facepalm here. One of the counselors at the fair suggested a few careers – and architecture stood out immediately. I can’t say for any one reason, but I realized I wanted to be an architect from then on.
What are your hobbies?
While currently most of my free time is spent chasing my toddler around, I enjoy cooking, art, crafting, table-top games, video games, live music, live sports, traveling, paddleboarding, and giving all the best pets and snuggles to our little dog Luna. I also enjoy spending quality time with my family and friends – whether it’s a game night or summer evenings on the patio catching up over drinks.
Favorite inspirational quote?
“If you wish to make an apple pie from scratch, you must first invent the universe.” - Carl Sagan
Was there a person or experience that made an impact on your life?
There are many people and experiences that have had significant impact on my life, but my partner is someone who has perhaps made the greatest impact by far. He has supported me and our life together in so many ways and truly inspires me to be my best self, both professionally and personally.
Tell us something about your job that you are very passionate about.
The design and creation of a built environment that has a positive and symbiotic relationship with community and our environment.
Tell us something about your life you are very passionate about.
Spending quality time with family, friends, and being a present and active participant in life. I think life can become either really boring or really hectic at times and it’s important to remain present and experience everything. Something that has brought this to the forefront of my life is being able to watch my toddler experience the world more and more each day, with little-to-no context and witnessing the learning and growth, the curiosity and reactions.
What path would you have taken if you didn't choose architecture?
Well as I mentioned, I had my sights set on architecture in 7th grade. I often feared what I would turn to if I didn’t continue in architecture. Most likely I would have become a math teacher for Jr. High grades or going into marketing.
If we told you that you get to take the day off work tomorrow, how would you spend it?
I would make a day of doing some sort of adventure with my family during the day followed by an evening filled with good music, conversation, playing outside in the backyard, and cooking an amazing fresh pasta for dinner paired with some wine, maybe a game of some sort.
What is your favorite thing to eat?
Kebab koobideh with tahdig, and some ghormeh sabzi. I love Persian food, I don’t eat it frequently because there aren’t a lot of options in Utah and it’s also time consuming to make it right, but when we do it’s my absolute favorite.
What is your favorite season?
I enjoy living in place with all four seasons, but If I had to pick it would be Fall. That’s when I’m able to get outside for longer periods of time when otherwise it’s too hot in the summer for me. I love jackets and sweatshirts, and a bit more rain. I love watching the University of Utah college football season. I also love Halloween time, and watching spooky, scary movies throughout the month of October. My husband and I keep a list of movies to watch during that month and it’s always such a fun time before all the chaos of the holiday season to come.
