Design has been Efti Miculi’s passion since she started sketching at six years old. “At a young age, I was always curious to learn how things were built, and what materials were used,” she said.
“When I was fourteen, I won a design competition that got me into a specialized high school art program, where I gained artistic knowledge in drawing and painting.”
She adds, “Drawing buildings made me more curious to know about architecture’s history, purpose, and evolution. I believe that having an artistic sense enables architects to look at things from a different perspective and notice minor details that others typically may not see.”
Efti, currently a second-year Master of Architecture student at Lawrence Technological University’s College of Architecture and Design (CoAD), is the 2023 recipient of MAF’s AIA Mid-Michigan Scholarship. MAF’s Scholarship Committee noted Efti’s excellent portfolio and her strong commitment to a career in architecture and design as factors in her scholarship award.
“Winning the MAF scholarship means a lot to me,” said Efti. In addition to my academic pursuits, I am a mother of two kids. Financially, balancing school and family was not easy until I started working. The scholarship has helped me continue my education and to pursue my goal to be a licensed architect which requires dedication and a lot of work.”
She adds, “The scholarship win has also given me more confidence in what I do now, and for my future and career. By continuing my education, my passion for architecture and design has only grown stronger.”
As part of their MAF scholarship application, students are required to submit both a personal statement and design portfolio. “I shared that my interest is not just in design, but also using my skills as an architect to contribute to the community. I want to develop strategies to protect the environment and promote cultural heritage as well as provide shelter to those in need.” Efti’s portfolio included work that showcased her talent in design, knowledge in the field of architecture design, and her interest and hobbies. “I included art I create during my free time, studio projects with a unique approach to designing a building, and craft work I did by hand or using technology as a final product of intensive research.”
Among the things she is enjoying most about her graduate architecture program, Efti said it is teaching her the impact of an architect’s role in the world and community, the critical thinking of what, how, and why to design, and preparing her for the dynamic profession of architecture. Post-degree, Efti states she is committed to using her design talent and passion for architecture to inspire her children and others to create positive change. “The concepts of green architecture, diverse architecture, and adaptable architecture are among those that I love to work on,” she said. “With a vision of an ecological future, and curiosity about innovative solutions, future architects and community builders will want to discover, experiment, and inspire others.”
MAF’s mission is to advance awareness of how architecture enriches life. How does Efti think architecture enriches life? “Architecture has a huge impact on our daily life as It affects us physically and psychologically. I strongly believe that successful architecture is aesthetically and pragmatically functioning and engaging. It also needs to represent the present as well as to enhance human well-being beyond their design needs to a more holistic approach.”
She adds, “Architecture is about more than simply aesthetics. It is about comfort, pleasure, functionality, need, change, respect, community, culture, creativity, teamwork, and more. It is a privilege to have such an important title as architect, and be able to include design in all these aspects of life.”
Photos, top to bottom: Efti, a selection of images from her personal architecture and artistic works portfolio.
Applications for MAF’s 2024 scholarships are being accepted through March 15. 2024.