Mariam Zaghari

Degree: B.A. in Architecture
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
Graduation Year: 2027

How did you first get interested in architecture?
I have always been interested in spaces and the way they can shape a person’s mood. I enjoy people-watching and observing how individuals interact with their surroundings, but what draws me most to architecture is its ability to truly help people.

Before beginning architecture school, I was originally pursuing nursing. With a background in the medical field and experience working as a CNA, I have always felt a strong desire to care for and support others. As my interests evolved, I discovered architecture and realized that helping people does not only happen through medicine. It can also happen through the design of thoughtful, meaningful spaces that improve everyday life.

What kind of career do you hope to have?
I want to design with the intention of helping others.

In my first year of architecture school, I took an elective course called Humanitarian Design with Betsy West, where we spent the semester studying projects created in response to humanitarian issues around the world. For our final project, we were to choose any location and any humanitarian need to design for. I chose to design a pharmacy and mental health clinic in Rafah, Gaza. As someone who is Palestinian, this project felt especially personal and opened my eyes to the kind of work I hope to pursue. The career I aspire to have is one where design is always rooted in compassion and dedicated to supporting communities in need.

What is your favorite thing about the David R. Ravin School of Architecture?
My favorite thing about the SOA is the strong sense of community it creates. I’ve found my favorite people here in an environment where everyone is welcoming and genuinely willing to support one another. Being in a major with long nights and a heavy workload can feel overwhelming at times, but having professors and classmates there to support you along the way makes the hard work feel more manageable and meaningful.

Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts/design community?
I am a member of @cltnomas, where we bridge the community through culture and create events that bring together students and professionals to connect, learn from each other, and share their backgrounds. I am also a member of @pcouncc, where we host events to raise money for charity in support of Palestinian communities. We also hold multiple events to share and educate others about Palestinian culture and also bring awareness to what’s going on back home in Palestine.

When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy traveling and cafe hopping!! In every place I’ve visited, I’ve tried practically every cafe; I don’t believe there is a café in Charlotte that I haven’t tried.