Hilleary Wray
Hometown: Maiden, NC
BA in Architecture and a Minor in Urban Studies
2026
How did you first get interested in architecture?
I have always been a super artistic person, I grew up dancing, then I learned how to paint and later being involved in theatre. I knew that I wanted to have a career invested in the arts, but I also enjoyed academic work. I love the detailed articulation of design, and when applied to things like architecture, how the possibilities are endless.
What kind of career do you hope to have?
I hope to become a licensed architect who publishes work that improves the community in some way, shape or form. I am interested in doing research and applying it to executed projects.
What is your favorite thing about The David R. Ravin School of Architecture?
My favorite thing about the UNC Charlotte School of Archtecture is the sense of community. As someone who has grown up in such a variety of art fields, I appreciate the interdisciplinary connections. It makes me feel like I belong in the school.
Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?
I attend Women in Architecture meetings, I am a student representative for the second-year architecture students, and I love to attend athletic games on campus.
Can you describe your experience as a scholarship student?
I am currently on two scholarships, the Lambla one from UNC Charlotte and UNCSA’s Tuition Grant Program Scholarship. More specifically as a Lambla Scholarship Winner, going through the scholarship process has been an interesting process in itself. It shows the priorities that sponsors put into helping people who give back. I have a lot of public work under my belt, from high school in both Hickory and Winston-Salem but once I got to college I just didn’t feel as motivated. But by receiving this scholarship it’s really encouraged me to get back in the community more, specifically here at Charlotte. This year I have joined the WIAS club, participated in AIAS events, and became one of the representatives for second year architecture students. I would like to continue to engage with campus opportunities and my peers around me. I think it’s allowed me to grow and learn a lot about what’s going on around me rather than what’s just going on in my own life. I hope this helps a little more to answer your question. I don’t have any specific events that have helped me since receiving it.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
I love to go to the gym to lift, reading classical novels, and painting.