Betel Aga Email and Phone Number

My name is Betel Aga, and I am a second-year student at Grinnell College. Grinnell offers a unique approach to majors, allowing students to create their own by combining courses from various departments. For my Independent Architecture major, I focus on Art History, Anthropology, Physics, and Studio Art. I am deeply invested in housing policy and design, which fuels my aspiration to become an architect. In my community, I see a pressing need to address how we interact with our built surroundings and how these interactions shape our lives. The design of public spaces either fosters a sense of belonging and community or contributes to feelings of isolation. Similarly, housing policies significantly impact the accessibility of safe and affordable housing, affecting residents' overall well-being. Questions such as "Why do we call some places home?" and "How does our environment influence our identity?" are central to my interest. Understanding the history of land and the factors leading to the exclusion of certain neighborhoods is crucial to this inquiry. In many cases, certain neighborhoods are excluded due to historical and systemic factors such as discriminatory housing policies, redlining, and economic disparities. These practices have led to uneven development and access to resources, often leaving marginalized communities with poorly designed public spaces. These spaces can deter community engagement and limit residents' ability to form strong social connections. Areas with limited access to parks, inadequate public transportation, or underfunded schools may not foster the same sense of belonging or identity as more well-resourced neighborhoods. Conversely, well-planned environments that include green spaces, accessible amenities, and safe streets can significantly enhance social connections and community safety. By examining how certain neighborhoods have been excluded or underserved, we can better understand the impact of these factors on community identity and belonging. I believe that architectural choices significantly influence our potential, either expanding or restricting it. By considering how our surroundings impact our daily lives, I aim to be part of the next generation of designers who create spaces that promote safety, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging. I am committed to developing designs that reflect and address the needs of the communities we serve, ensuring that everyone feels secure and valued.