Architecture student is second in family to attend Dunwoody
When Kattye Gonzalez started at Dunwoody this fall, she became the second one in her family to attend the College – and the first is still in school.
Gonzalez learned about Dunwoody from her brother, Brian, who will graduate this spring with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. When she was choosing her college path before graduating from Columbia Heights High School last spring, Dunwoody was definitely on her list.
“I chose to go to Dunwoody for their Bachelor of Architecture program,” Gonzalez said. “It’s very unique and saves money for students who want to get licensed soon after graduating. I also decided on Dunwoody because of their student to teacher ratio! I learn better in small groups and in an environment where I can talk to a teacher right away – and Dunwoody provides that.”
A shorter path to licensure
A stackable degree, Gonzalez will first receive her two-year Associate of Applied Science in Architectural Drafting & Design before going on to receive her three-year Bachelor of Architecture. She’ll also be able to take advantage of the Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL) programs, which offers students the opportunity jump-start their career by completing licensure requirements while earning the degree.
“I am enjoying how hands on everything is and how much the professors help students out,” she said about the program. “I love that Dunwoody hires working professionals because they can speak to us about their jobs and educate us on the world of our profession.”
Scholarship support
Gonzalez, who currently works as a package handler for UPS, was grateful to receive the Whitney and Elizabeth MacMillan Scholarship, which gave her the opportunity to attend Dunwoody.
“Receiving this scholarship really makes me feel like someone believes in me and what I’m passionate about,” she said. “Receiving this scholarship also gave me a peace of mind because it helped me financially and will allow me to continue to pursue my educational dreams.”
When she’s not attending class, studying, or working, Gonzalez said she enjoys taking her dogs on adventures and discovering new places with them.
After getting her degree, Gonzalez wants to become a licensed architect and work for an organization that will allow her to grow as a professional.
She also encourages others thinking about a technical degree to pursue their dreams.
“I would tell them to go for it and give it a chance,” Gonzalez said. “It really is more career focused and has more practical practice. It’s also very flexible and convenient when you have jobs and or need to fit your schedule around your personal life. The high employment rate is also a big benefit, Dunwoody really focuses on getting you a job in your career field.”