January Professional Member of the Month
Alyanna Subayno
Neumann Monson Architects
Intern Architect
1. What is the most exciting and energizing aspect of your current position?
The most exciting part about architecture is that it constantly evolves. In school, we were always progressing towards a more complex, and in-depth understanding of the field – the situation is similar in practice. As a recent graduate, I do recognize that there’s a learning curve, and while that may be daunting, the idea of learning something new every day is the most appealing part of the work.
2. What was the last interesting podcast you listened to?
Asian Boss Girl, Episode 64: My Asian American Identity. The podcast talks through the experiences of a modern-day Asian American woman – from identities to career paths to lifestyles, etc. Episode 64, in particular, reflects on growing up ethnically Asian in America. I resonated a lot with this episode and could recall the ways I navigated certain situations because of my identity – whether that be in school or the interactions I had with friends or my community.
3. What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
I’m really proud of where I currently am and the work I’ve gotten to do since being at Neumann Monson. It’s rewarding to be a part of a team that’s constantly evolving along with the practice. This mindset is embedded into the studio and it has really allowed me to get involved in the firm.
4. What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
Be open. Be flexible. Seek and take every opportunity, especially the unexpected ones.
5. We are Iowa Women in Architecture; who were the female role models that inspired you?
My mother and grandmother, of course – who were really the first ones that paved the way for me. Kate Thuesen, an architect at DLR’s Des Moines office, is another individual I look up to; she was one of the first people I sought advice from when I started to experience and see the inequities around me – especially being a woman and person of color in a male-dominated field. I also think of the great mentors I had at my internship last summer at ZGF’s Portland office – Erin, Amy, Cassie, Nicole, and Rachel; the five of them became a great support system during my time there.