From Columbia State to WKU Success: Local Graduate's Journey in Architectural Science

Alex Lahman's time at Western Kentucky University (WKU) highlights the potential of transfer students to adapt and succeed. As her graduation nears, Alex looks back on her time at WKU, where she faced academic challenges, grew personally, and discovered a passion for architectural science. Originally from Nolensville, Tennessee, she first attended Columbia State Community College through the 'Tennessee Promise' initiative, which was a strategic choice both financially and academically.

The move from Columbia State to WKU was challenging. Alex initially aimed to transfer to UT Knoxville but found the process difficult and confusing. A postcard from WKU, promoting its transfer-friendly policies, caught her eye. After speaking with a WKU advisor, she was attracted to the university's architectural science program and the supportive staff. This decision marked the start of her educational path at WKU, aligning with her interests and career goals.

At WKU, a high school design class shifted Alex's focus from microbiology to architectural science. This class reintroduced her to her childhood interest in designing and planning spaces. The architectural science program at WKU provided her with technical skills, including advanced modeling software, preparing her for professional success.

A major achievement for Alex at WKU was her senior capstone project, where she designed a community and aquatic center for Jim Roberts Park in Franklin, Kentucky. The project allowed her to use her academic learning in a real-world context and present her ideas to local government officials and stakeholders, who received her work positively.

Furthermore, Alex's honors thesis explored biophilic design, an approach that incorporates natural elements into buildings to improve environmental and psychological health. Her research used virtual reality to test peer responses to biophilic designs, demonstrating her ability to combine technical skills with creative ideas.

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