Rachel Morgan
Year: Senior (2014)
Major and How You Chose It:
Interior Architecture. I identified my interest for interior design at the young age of 13, when I graduated from middle school. In high school, I took a computer modelling class where I learned Google SketchUp and was able to develop a building that could rehabilitate a site in my neighborhood. After that class, I knew I wanted to become a designer.
Hometown and What You Love About It:
Bronx, NY. What I love about NYC is that there is so much diversity in one community… I can travel a block away from my house and be immersed in so many different cultures at once. In addition to the 24/7 livelihood, the constant transportation, walkable communities, shops, museums, and did I mention the FOOD? Yumm!!!
If you could assign everyone at Chatham one book to read, what would it be and why?
Hmm one book, that’s a hard question I have so many! I would have to say Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg, once I started reading it I could not put the book down. Her point is basically we need more women in power, even though gender biases still exist in the workplace, but you can make a difference if you believe in yourself, “lean in” and be assertive in your professional ambitions and other career goals.
Why did you choose Chatham?
As I grew to learn more about design, I started helping my neighbors and close friends organize and renovate their homes; I also encouraged them to adopt more sustainable practices such as reusing items and recyclable materials. I eventually discovered Chatham University and found deep respect for its Interior Architecture program, because it would give me the best resources to study both Interior Design and Architecture.
What do you love most about being a Chatham student?
I love so many things about being a Chatham student, from the diversity of the other students, the small, friendly community, and the sense of female empowerment and advocacy which gave me the extra boost I needed to believe in myself and be the confident woman I am today!
If you could pick one musician or band to play at your next birthday party, which one would you choose?
Well, my music taste ranges from Reggae, Gospel, and Pop all the way to Broadway music, but if I had to pick one band, it would be Tenth Avenue North; I love their music and can listen to it anytime I feel down or upset!
You have a friend coming to Pittsburgh for the day, and you can only take them to do one thing. What would you do?
I would take them to Squirrel Hill, there is so much to do there and so many places to visit by walking. Like getting breakfast at Pamela’s (the hot cakes are A-mazing), to shopping at little boutiques and getting yogurt from Razzy Fresh, or watching a late-night movie.
If you could choose one TV character to be your best friend, who would you choose?
I don’t have much time for TV while in school (yikes), and I’m not sure if I would want a celebrity as my best friend. However, I would like to meet Kerry Washington from Scandal. I love her character on that show, and we’re also from the same hometown!
Childhood Dream Job:
As a child I wanted to become a professional dancer or figure skater.
Current Dream Job:
Definitely becoming a famous designer, with my designs produced all over the world and having my own architecture/design firm. My firm would flourish in designing modern and accommodative buildings that encourage recycling, exploring renewable-energy sources and sustainable waste management.