Agnes Rodts
Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.
Graduation Year: 2028
How did you first get interested in architecture?
In high school band, I traveled across North Carolina and multiple states for honor bands and performances. Through this, I started to notice how the architecture of the concert halls we were performing was elevating the experience and memories being created. I’m pretty artsy and like science, so I decided to look into it. Through this, I learned that architecture was a mix of design and STEM that would allow me to keep both present in my future career.
What kind of career do you hope to have?
I’m still exploring the many different paths within architecture, which is one of the things I love about the field. I think it would be exciting to design concert halls or churches someday, but at the same time, I hope to gain experience across multiple areas of design as I continue learning and growing professionally.
Ultimately, I want to use my skills to serve others and create places where people can come together. I believe architecture has a real impact on the way people live and interact with the world around them, so I hope to work for a firm that shares that intentional, human-centered mindset.
What is your favorite thing about UNC Charlotte?
One of my favorite things about UNC Charlotte is how my peers are always here for me. Whether it’s in the School of Architecture and I need to go pick up supplies or the Music Department, where I’m around talented musicians pursuing what they’re passionate about. I’ve also found a strong sense of belonging through the Catholic Campus Ministry at UNC Charlotte, where the faith-centered camaraderie has helped me grow spiritually. Across all these spaces, the people around me are eager to listen, laugh, support, and enjoy being together.
Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts/design community?
I am the 2026-27 President of UNC Charlotte’s Catholic Campus Ministry and am very honored to lead the group in organizing multiple weekly events.
I’m also a member of American Institute of Architecture Students and will be interning at Zapata Group, an architecture and engineering firm, this summer! I’m very eager to apply my studies and learn more about the work I’ll be doing in the future.
Do you have any scholarships? If so, please tell us about it and how it is helping you as a student.
I have been fortunate to receive several merit and academic-based scholarships throughout my education, including the Alumni Association Merit Scholarship most recently. I am deeply grateful for the support they have provided. These scholarships have allowed me to focus more fully on my studies in architecture and reduce the financial pressure that comes with higher education. They give me confidence and encouragement to push myself to give my best and continue to be curious about the world around me. They are also reminders of the responsibility to make meaningful contributions through my work and in my community.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
Outside of school, I like to play sports (I’ll be in a lacrosse league this summer!), play cards and board games, read, play music, explore new foods and hang out with my family in Raleigh.