Riley Decker

Hometown: Lafayette, Indiana

Degree: M2 Master of Architecture track with a dual Master’s degree in Critical Heritage Studies

Graduation Year: 2026

How did you first get interested in architecture?

I had the opportunity to take introductory engineering courses in high school, and I originally thought I would end up in civil engineering at Purdue University. No one really presents architecture as a career option when you are young – it’s all doctors, lawyers, and astronauts. One of my highschool teachers randomly mentioned architecture as an option at a time when I didn’t really know where I wanted to end up. I always loved art classes and after looking further into architecture, I thought it was the perfect combination of subjects I enjoyed throughout high school (art, physics, and engineering). 

What kind of career do you hope to have?

Currently, I have been into adaptive reuse projects like what you see from Optimist hall and Camp North End. I love the idea of transforming old industrial buildings into integrated social or work spaces. I would also love to do custom housing later in my career. Everyone has an idea of their dream home and I think being able to design homes for people is rewarding because homes are the most intimate and personalized space for people. 

What is your favorite thing about The David R. Ravin School of Architecture?

I love the sense of community within the architecture program. There are students from so many diverse backgrounds that it fosters a very vivid learning environment. You can only learn so much from reading a textbook, so I think being able to learn from others’ experiences and perspectives is really valuable.

Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?

Within UNC Charlotte, I am currently on the board for the Women in Architecture Students (WIAS) organization that started this semester. Outside of school, I haven’t had the opportunity yet, but I would like to participate in a Habitat for Humanity Project.

When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?

I love going to the gym, specifically for strength training and occasionally going on runs. I have recently mastered doing handstands. Coming to North Carolina from Indiana, I also really want to take the opportunity to start hiking. Additionally, I have also been making my way through Charlotte trying to find the best coffee shops. Lastly, my guilty pleasure is that I am still critically into playing Minecraft when I find free time.