As a self-described "learning-by-doing" person, Joanne Johnson, ’24, found the right fit for her future in Farmingdale State College’s Architectural Engineering Technology program and she looks forward to building her career.
Johnson’s interest in architecture began in high school where she took technology courses that used computer-assisted design (CAD) software to “build” projects.
“I wanted to major in architecture and decided to start my journey here,” said Johnson, who lives in New Hyde Park. “I knew I wanted to stay home, this was affordable, and FSC is not too large or too small. Because it’s small, you can have closer relationships with professors. I have friends in larger schools who say they have no connection with their teachers.”
At the beginning of the program, Johnson said, students learn to do hand-drafting to gain perspective about the industry. Then software programs are integrated into the coursework to show what is currently being used by the professionals. “I’m learning basically abstract theoretical things,” she said. Johnson enjoys the department’s small classes and the way professors encourage them to interact and help each other. After graduation, she expects to earn a master’s degree in architecture.
Johnson’s other on-campus experiences include serving as treasurer of the Architectural Engineering Technology Club and participating in a Habitat for Humanity trip, which involved building a house. “I did some painting, which was a fun experience,” she said. “I would like to plan more events like that.”
“Joanne has developed into one of our key student leaders because of her commitment to reactivating and reenergizing the Architecture and Construction Technology Club,” said the Chairman of the Department of Construction Management and Assistant Professor Eric Anderson. “She is a champion of the Habitat for Humanity student-build projects that offer students an opportunity to learn technical skills and provide community service.”
She is also one of the two senators on the Student Government Association (SGA) board representing the School of Engineering Technology.
Farmingdale is the right fit for Johnson, and she is certain others will feel similarly. “For those who want to learn the technical side of architecture, on a smaller campus, and have a chance to interact with their professors,” she said, FSC is the place.
