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    March 5, 2025
    Veronica, Bachelor of Design in City Innovation

    Meet Veronica: My Most Memorable Experience as a UCalgary Student!

    My name is Veronica, and I’m currently in my second year of the Bachelor of Design in City Innovation (BDCI) program in the School of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape (SAPL) at the University of Calgary. From the moment I stepped into the program, I was immersed in the vibrant “studio culture,” where collaboration, creativity, and long hours working alongside my peers became central to my experience. This hands-on, community-driven environment has shaped my growth both as a student and as a designer, and I’m excited to share how the BDCI program has exceeded my expectations in so many ways.

      
      

    Life in the BDCI Program

    This program has been more fulfilling than I ever could have imagined. Design school is challenging—learning skills like modeling, drawing, 3D rendering, and animation takes discipline, creativity, and ambition. But the growth you see in yourself, and your peers makes it all worth it. 

    A key part of BDCI is studio culture. Before joining BDCI, I had no idea what “studio culture” really meant. But when you’re in a program where craftsmanship, creativity, and iteration are central, you inevitably spend long hours in the studio working on projects. These long hours in the studios with a small cohort of 55 students has allowed me to form strong bonds with classmates and build a real sense of community. We all support each other, making this more than just an academic journey—it’s a shared experience. 

    Getting Involved 


    This past summer, three of my peers founded the City Innovation Student Association (CISA) through SU Clubs. This fall, I was elected Class Representative for BDCI Class of 2027 and VP External of CISA. In these roles, I advocate for students and help strengthen connections within BDCI, SAPL, and beyond. We’re currently planning our first year-end event to celebrate our growing community! 
     

    One of the most rewarding aspects of BDCI is building strong relationships with faculty. Our professors are not only experts but deeply invested in our success. As class reps, we work closely with Associate Dean Alberto de Salvatierra and undergraduate specialist Sarah Hah, who have been instrumental in shaping and supporting our program. 

      

     
      
     

    Beyond the Classroom 
     

      

    Exploring Design 


    In BDCI, we study everything from urban design and landscape architecture to wearable architecture, park design, rendering, and animation. The program allows us to work at different scales of design, from fashion and urban lighting to neighborhood planning and furniture design. 
     

    Even though I originally planned to focus on Urban Planning, the BDCI program has introduced me to so many other areas of design that I’m grateful to explore. We also can take elective courses in fields like entrepreneurship, sustainability, and computer science, broadening our understanding of the built environment. 

    Outside of school, I’m passionate about rock climbing, skiing, and spending time with friends. While design school can be rigorous, our student government and professors encourage us to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life.  

    One of the best things about this program is how it allows us to bring our personal interests into our work. In my first year, I designed a live-work studio for a rock climber, complete with an integrated outdoor climbing wall. This is just one example of the freedom and creativity that the BDCI program fosters. 

        


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