Monserrat Molina first became immersed in architecture after completing the program ‘ArcPrep’ in High School exposed her to the world of architecture. After becoming fascinated with her first time 3D printing a model and conditioning her hands with simple drawings, Monserrat knew that architecture was her future.
Monserrat is the first recipient of MAF’s Hausman Family Scholarship, which is awarded to a student studying architecture, who demonstrates commitment to practicing architecture in Michigan and enhancing architecture through design excellence and sustainability. “Receiving a MAF scholarship means that I can invest into my education as it becomes more costly,” said Monserrat. “It means that someone was able to see the passion that I have for architecture and believed in my ability to grow, which only pushes me further in the dedication I have for the field.”
At the University of Michigan, Monserrat is an incoming junior in her bachelor’s degree program. Currently, she feels the most fascinating thing about her program is experiencing the diversity of architecture deliverables through learning various digital software, hand drawings, and physical models. She explained, “I really enjoy refining my designs and being able to see my progress.”
What does she love most about architecture? “I love being able to learn about the existing structures and designs across the world. It is inspiring to learn about architect’s motives, thoughts, and varying styles that result in acclaimed buildings.”
Currently, the Aqua Tower by Jeanne Gang in Chicago is the building that Monserrat is most captivated by. “The form, the sustainability, and the unique terraces are the features that bring this structure together and it fits so well among the skyscrapers of Chicago. I also love that Jeanne is a very empowering female architect in an underrepresented field of work.”
As she continues her journey in architecture, Monserrat has a strong interest in both large-scale architecture (mixed use, commercial, civic developments), and residential design. In the future, she hopes to create both functional and people-centered spaces that positively impact both communities and individuals. She continues to feel inspired to complete her goal of becoming a licensed architect and contributing to meaningful, community centered design.
As part of their MAF Scholarship application, students must include a personal statement describing their interest, experience and plans related to architecture, and their leadership and extracurricular activities.
In her application, Monserrat highlighted that her interest in architecture comes from exploring the relationship between form, space, and the human experience. She emphasized her work with Southwest Detroit Environmental Vision, which helped to reinforce her belief that architecture should positively serve communities. As well, her work with AIAS (American Institute of Architects’ student organization), where she serves on the NCARB Committee Board, has helped to build her leadership skills, strengthened her commitment to collaboration, representation, and designing thoughtful spaces that make a lasting impact.
Students are also required to submit a personal portfolio with their application. Monserrat’s portfolio included a selection of academic projects that demonstrated both her design process and technical development as an architecture student. One project that was featured was a Wearable Architecture project, which explored how human movement can generate architectural form through folding systems. She also included an Inspired Gallery project influenced by Rachel Whiteread’s work, which examined negative space, repetition, and the relationship between architecture and human experience. “Throughout the portfolio, I included digital models and design iterations to illustrate my creative process and how each project evolved from concept to final proposal. Together, these projects reflect my interest in thoughtful, human centered design and my growing technical and conceptual skills in architecture.”
Michigan Architectural Foundation’s mission is to advance awareness of how architecture enriches life. How does Monserrat think architecture enriches life? “I believe architecture enriches life because it is one of the most versatile forms of expression,” she said. “It serves as a universal language that communicates through space, light, material, and form. Architecture reflects the history, culture, and values of a community while responding to the needs of diverse populations across generations, and it allows people from all backgrounds to experience and connect with it.”
She continued, “The impact extends far beyond aesthetics, it shapes how people live, interact, and feel within their environment. When thoughtfully designed, architecture has the power to unite communities, celebrate diversity, and improve quality of life, making it an essential part of a more inclusive and connected world.”