Nakyra Sykes
Current Degree: MS Architecture- Critical Heritage Studies
Past Degree: Bachelor of Architecture, UNC Charlotte (2024)
Graduation Year: 2025
Hometown: Burlington, NC
Why did you choose this particular graduate degree or combination of degrees?
I was exposed to the Critical Heritage program as a Second Year in my undergraduate program. Through an internship which continued as an independent study, I was able to join meetings where Critical Heritage students discussed their projects. I found students here who had design backgrounds like mine who were able to implement meaningful and intentional solutions by acknowledging and engaging in the historic context of their projects (each of them varied by student). The Critical Heritage masters was an opportunity to hone a skill set which I believed was pivotal to being able to accomplish my intended career goals.
What kind of career do you hope to have?
I have always been interested in the flexible nature of architecture as a tool which has the potential to take localized problems and produce buildings which aim to address those issues while becoming very intimate to the landscape of that area.
I hope to open my own consulting firm down the line where I can consult with developers or community partners who want to activate or develop communities in this way.
How do you think this degree will prepare you for the career you are choosing?
Through the Critical Heritage Program I am exposed to the interdisciplinary practices which exist adjacent to the architecture field. Every day I get the chance to work with aspiring planners, historians, architects, and archeologists in their own right. I am exposed to many ways to problem solve as a result.
Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte architecture/design community?
I am currently a Graduate Research Assistant for the Center for Community, Heritage, and the Arts (CHArts) at UNC Charlotte. Through this expense I have become student lead designer assisting on the exhibition dedicated to recognizing the work of Phil Freelon titled Container/Contained, which we will be installing in the Auburn Avenue Research Library.
I contributed to the website design for the North Carolina African American Cemeteries Network, which was an amazing opportunity to meet faculty and staff across the state who are doing amazing work recognizing and preserving African American Cemeteries. Through this opportunity I also have the chance to contribute to the efforts of the Women and Girls Research Alliance to contribute to Archival Research for Cedar Grove Cemetery.
I am also participating on the team currently for the Mitchellville Heritage Trail design competition under the leadership of Kyle Spence.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
There are many things I do with my hands like painting, drawing, crocheting, woodwork (a work in progress), and sometimes sewing. Working with my hands helps me clear my mind.