Jeylan Emmanuel
Class of 2027
Favorite thing about being at Georgia Tech: My favorite thing about being at Georgia Tech is the social atmosphere. So far, everyone I’ve met has been very welcoming and non-judgmental. As someone who struggles with shyness, I often feel socially anxious when I’m interacting with other students on campus, especially when I overthink about how I will be perceived. However, I’m always reminded that Tech encourages us to express ourselves artistically or socially as we please, and it reassures me to always feel confident in presenting who I truly am.
Who do you want to design for? I’ve always wanted to design for my community. Given the historical context of erasure and destruction of Black spaces in response to segregation from public areas, it’s essential for me to incorporate my ideas into my designs that are dedicated to African American heritage, both to embrace our flourishing legacy and tackle the social and political challenges that are often embedded in architectural contexts. What inspired me to integrate African American culture into my recent projects was an advanced studio project from spring 2024 titled “Rooted In Reparations.” When I first encountered the project during my free time in Studio, I was amazed at how well the patterns of our cultural protective hairstyles were transformed into designs for canopies, facades, and other interior patterns showcasing the empowerment of our rich heritage. Beyond its astonishing craftsmanship, it was comforting to feel culturally represented by someone who shares a passion for designing spaces that offer a sense of safety and unity. When designing, I aim to consider how effectively it will engage my community and enhance the social environment, whether I am designing residential, educational, or recreational spaces that are historically reminiscent of my culture.
What do you do for fun? Outside of academics, I always find ways to occupy myself during my free time, whether it’s crocheting/sewing accessories for everyday wear, photographing landscapes of interesting sites or portraits of people, or even distracting myself with music.
Words to describe what you thought before you started: Eerie
Words to describe what you think now: Whimsical