City College of New York's Soany Marquez on Representation and Recognizing Your Own Potential

By Julia Gamolina

Soany was raised half of her life in a small town in Honduras and the other half in the Bronx. She is a recent graduate from the City College of New York where she received her Bachelor’s in Architecture. In college, she was twice awarded the Castagna scholarship that allowed her to study abroad and expand her global perspective of architecture. She has always been interested in architecture as a form of activism and artistic expression. As a first-generation Honduran graduate, she feels underrepresented in the architecture field because of the lack of Latin American mentors, professors, and colleagues. One of Soany’s goals for her future career is to bring more diversity and inclusion for minorities into the architecture profession.

JG: Why did you decide to study architecture?

SM: Initially, my interest in architecture stemmed from my passion for drawing and constructing multi-functional objects. I have always enjoyed the process of sharing and turning ideas into complex designs. Seeing the power that design can have on social reforms, and our understanding of dichotomy in society, made me fond of this profession. For this reason, I attended the High School of Art and Design where I delved into the field of architecture, which ultimately led me to pursue my bachelor of architecture in college. My college experience opened my eyes to new perspectives on what architecture could be and what it does. I realized that the profession doesn’t have the best history when it comes to advocating for minorities in design; nevertheless, it encouraged me as a minority in this field to change the narrative.

What was the favorite project you worked on in school? Favorite paper you wrote? Favorite extracurricular?

One of my favorite projects was a collaboration my 4th-year studio had to do with Cooperation Jackson on the research and design of Prefab/ Modular Housing in West Jackson Mississippi. The projects were very research-based and engaged us with thought-provoking questions on cooperative living while adhering to ecological principles. This was the first project where we were able to get design input from members of the community. One of the biggest highlights of my academic career was traveling to Jackson Mississippi to present my project; it made me realize how much I love working with locals communities to solve problems of equity through design.

What are some of the initiatives you’ve focused on in school, and why?

In school, I participated in mentoring programs as a mentee that the Architecture League offered to create connections and expand my field of networking. This program enables students to acquire different outlooks on what architecture is outside of the classroom.

I also enjoyed taking courses such as Queer Space by Sean Weiss that taught about the history and narratives of spaces occupied by the LGBTQ+ community.

Activist Space in New York City by Nandini Bagchee which focused on exploring the history of how NYC spaces were and are used for activism. It is important that students are taught more than just how to design; we need to be taught how to think critically, and how the spaces we create affect the community around us.

When searching for internships and your first job, what were you looking for?

Honestly, when I first started to look for internships I was not picky about where to apply; I was open to any opportunity because each would be a learning experience. Now that I have graduated I want to make sure I apply to jobs that make me feel included. I want to be part of a firm environment that caters and educates its employees on the importance of diversity and equality in the workforce. A firm that actually cares about making a change, not only through their marketing but with real initiatives

What’s important to you? What inspires you?

My family has always been very important to me. I can say that they give me inspiration every day to keep fighting for change. I also want my two-year-old sister to live and grow up in a world that accepts her for who she is. This aspiration for change is reflected by my architecture; it encapsulates changes that still need to happen around the world. As high as my ambitions are, I haven't forgotten my first home in Jardines, Honduras; I would also love to go back and make a change for my community

“Do your own research and take your counselor’s advice with a grain of salt because many of them won’t see your potential. Start creating these opportunities for yourself now.”

What do you hope to do in your career?

In my future career, I hope to be a great advocate and mentor for young Latin female designers that look just like me and wish to pursue a career in design.

Who do you look up to? Both in terms of women in architecture, and in general.

I have always looked up to the woman that raised me, my aunt Suyapa. She taught me how to work hard and be humble. My moral compass was driven by the compassion she had towards everyone around her.

In the architecture world, I am moved by women like Samantha Josaphat of Studio 397 and Shannon Rodriguez from FXCollaborative. These are women who are consistent advocates and activists for inclusivity in the workplace.

What advice would you give to those in high school now, choosing their field of study?

To those young designers, I would really recommend enrolling in summer programs or mentoring programs that can teach you about a profession you are really interested in. I saw many of my friends have a hard time deciding their majors once they were already in college. Do your own research and take your counselor’s advice with a grain of salt because many of them won’t see your potential. Start creating these opportunities for yourself now; but know that if you ever need help or a mentor, I will be here.