In the second installment of this year’s incoming student series, we spoke with Bria Pruden, Thomas Barron, Anna Rodriguez, Luna Garay, Royden So, Mike Sovatzoglou, Haraelle Charles, Easha Fatima, and Yuno Lee. These first-years told us what brought them to Cooper, what they’re most looking forward to this year, and how they’ve spent their summer. 

Bria Pruden
District Heights, Maryland
Art

Growing up in a predominantly Black and Brown community, I have seen firsthand how the community is treated in terms of us constantly being overlooked and there not being an abundance of art and color to make residents feel inspired and take pride in where we live. Art is crucial to shaping our perception of the world around us. I would love to use my art degree to document the beauty that is in Black and Brown communities that many overstep and the uniqueness that is harvested in these communities.

My journey to The Cooper Union started when a representative came to my school to do a presentation. I was intrigued by the amount of freedom they let you have when it came to exploring art and being able to dig deeper into the different facets of art. I was hesitant in applying because I was doubting myself and my abilities to complete the application and execute. But due to the encouragement of my art teachers, I applied and never looked back. I love how The Cooper Union is open and engraved in the art community. I am mostly looking forward to being able to connect with other creatives and being able to find my voice through my art. 

This summer I traveled a little bit, going on my first cruise. I have also been working, saving up money for the school year and picking up new hobbies, such as learning how to play the electric guitar. Also connecting with friends before we all go off to college.

Thomas Barron
Wallingford, Connecticut
Architecture

I chose to study architecture because I am deeply intrigued by how people interact with the built environment. This interest led me to explore various related topics like urban planning, transit design, and the design of public spaces. I ultimately chose architecture because I admire the versatility of the field and its clear role in all of my different interests.

The Cooper Union quickly became my top choice as a school because of its size, location, affordability, and programs. No other college that I researched came close to being as well-rounded as Cooper in those departments. I participated in the Architecture Summer Program in 2024 and found myself fully immersed in my design and excited about the type of work that I could create at Cooper. 

I'm excited about the type of community that Cooper promotes and the ways that I can learn and grow from others. From my dorm to the studio to the whole city, Cooper will allow me to experience community in every size that I could want. I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to pursue this dream at Cooper and be surrounded by people who will inspire me to make the most of my experience.

This summer, I have been finding fulfillment in small things like drawing, hiking, practicing piano, and spending time with friends before we all move on to the next chapter of our lives. I also feel newly inspired by architecture and city-living after traveling to Amsterdam and Copenhagen with my family.

Anna Rodriguez
Queens, New York
Engineering

Out of all of the majors to pick from, computer science and engineering are what caught my eye the most. While I have a creative mind, my true passion lies in math, logic, and problem-solving. I felt like this really fell in line with engineering because of how crucial problem-solving and applied mathematics are. 

I first heard of Cooper back in the beginning of my junior year. I was researching engineering colleges in the area, and The Cooper Union was the one that really piqued my interest. I decided to research more about the school and saw that it was offering summer programs. I ended up spending six weeks being part of the Sustainable Futures course. By the time senior year started, I knew Cooper was where I wanted to be. 

I’m really excited to work together with my peers, especially because of the small class size! Part of the reason why I chose Cooper was because I knew that each student would get the care and attention that they needed to thrive.

This summer, I’ve spent a lot of time with my friends who are going away for college! I’ve also been working through an online computer science course to gain some experience in preparation for the Cooper coursework.

Luna Garay
Miami, Florida
Art

I’ve always practiced art. Even in high school, I attended an art-focused school. But as time went by, I became more serious and aware of what creating meant to me. During my senior year, I worked on a body of work that truly ignited within me. I became completely infatuated with the process. As the project ended, I realized how essential making art was to who I am. I knew I wanted to keep making art that could impact others the way it had impacted me. When I started thinking about career paths, nothing felt as refreshing as being in the art world.

While I was exploring art schools, none of them truly spoke to me until I found The Cooper Union. I soon found out that someone I know goes to Cooper, so I decided to reach out. As I started learning more about what it offered, I realized it had everything I was looking for. I loved the small student-to-professor ratio because it creates a chance for connection. What really stood out to me was how broad and open the B.F.A. program is. I’m excited by the freedom to explore materials and processes I haven’t touched yet.

As I enter my freshman year of college, I’m really excited about the experimental nature of being at Cooper. I know the program involves a lot of independent work, which will be a new experience for me. I’m especially looking forward to trying out new techniques and seeing how others work. I’m also eager to meet with the professors to hear about their insights and perspectives

I’ve been sketching ideas, researching, and gathering materials for my upcoming projects, which I’m super excited about! I also had a summer internship at Oolite Arts, where I got a behind-the-scenes look at how everything operates. Lately, I’ve also been enjoying and making the most of my time here in Miami with my friends and family before I leave.

Royden So
Hong Kong
Architecture

I was born and raised in Hong Kong, where East meets West. It's the birthplace of dim sum and kung fu movies and has been my home for the past 17 years. 

My decision to study architecture started with my love for all things design. I initially explored UX design, which opened my eyes to information architecture and design systems. That's when I noticed the striking parallels between digital and physical spaces. An internship at an architecture firm sealed the deal for me. I'm particularly drawn to third spaces and their vital role in American culture. At Cooper, I’m curious about learning how to build a more equitable and sustainable built environment.

I actually discovered Cooper by chance on Niche. What set it apart was the studio test rather than a traditional portfolio. Though it was intense, with a tight deadline, it really put my thinking process to the test. Despite the stress, it felt refreshingly challenging. Even though I got into what had been my ex-top choice, I fell especially in love with Cooper's mission, rigor, and location.

Honestly, I'm really looking forward to forming new friendships. I'd gotten comfortable and acclimated in my way of life. I'm excited to meet my roommates, classmates, and the broader Cooper community. I'm also looking forward to collaborating on projects, hearing diverse global perspectives, and even the mundane tasks like grocery shopping together or those late-night deep conversations. I can't wait to be surrounded by fellow change-makers and leaders in the heart of New York City.

I've been keeping busy over the summer with my mini e-commerce store, selling Framer templates and doing visual direction consulting for a few clients. I also had an incredible opportunity to compete in an international trade competition in Singapore, which pushed both my creative and analytical thinking. Also, I've been staying active with running, but most importantly, I made sure to spend as much time as possible with family and friends before starting this new chapter in life.

Mike Sovatzoglou
Athens, Greece
Engineering

Since I was a kid, engineering has always intrigued me, as it was integrated into all kinds of discussions at my household. For me, engineering represents the perfect intersection between theory and application. I realized this when I began to see simple routines, like making my morning coffee, as small-scale engineering processes. Each adjustment to the machine or the coffee ingredients reflected how small changes can affect a system’s outcome. My fascination with engineering grew during summers working at my father’s engineering firm in Greece, where I saw how HVAC systems, fire protection, and piping could transform from something that is purely technical into a working reality. These experiences showed me that engineering is not only about functionality but also about elegance and creativity. The prospect of taking ideas and turning them into impactful solutions is what excites me most and ultimately drove me to pursue engineering.

I’ve always wanted to study in New York as I find it fascinating that it’s a city of millions of unique characters and endless opportunities to explore and experience, and I was sure that this would also help me in my engineering career. When I found out about The Cooper Union, I immediately fell in love with its curriculum, faculty, and diverse labs, where I could explore science in a creative way. Another thing that deeply appealed to me was that The Cooper Union encourages undergraduates to engage in real research early on. The school’s commitment to innovation, hands-on experimentation, and pushing boundaries aligned with both my academic goals and my creative side. Therefore, I chose Cooper because I saw it as a small community in a massive city where my curiosity and ambitions could thrive.

I look forward to immersing myself in Cooper’s labs but also its community. I am really excited to do research in the anechoic chamber, studying vibrations and sound phenomena in a setting unlike any other. Beyond labs, I’m eager to engage with Cooper’s collaborative spirit. By working alongside peers and architecture students on the Solar Decathlon VIP course, I will have the opportunity to see how different perspectives can come together to create both functional and beautiful solutions, just like the real world. I am also excited about the chance to share my own cultural and academic background, shaped by Greek principles in mathematics and science, with the Cooper community.

Over the summer, I worked at my father’s engineering company, where I had the chance to observe how engineering theory translates into professional practice. I was so invested to the precision of mechanical designs in the industry: the seamless fitting of piping, the integration of HVAC systems into complex structures, or the orchestration of fire protection systems. But as an 18-year-old who had just graduated high school and managed to get into his dream school, I felt that I owed myself some time for vacation. I traveled to many Greek islands with my friends, creating memories that I will carry with me forever.

Haraelle Charles
Brooklyn, New York
Art

The choice that made me discover that I wanted to study art happened last year, when I participated in curating two art shows at the same time. This experience really cemented the idea that I should want to create more. 

In an indescribable way, seeing the culmination of the works during the opening nights, hearing the thought processes behind each piece, moved me. Beforehand, I didn’t know who I wanted to be, I didn’t know who I’d become, but seeing all the works surrounding me, gave me a sense of purpose, and a feeling of gratitude. The experience was bemusing as well, and so It gave me incentive, a need to create my own pieces that move others in the way that the pieces in those exhibitions did for me. I ended up at The Cooper Union due to a visit from one of the faculty members. He had explained the structure of Cooper and it immediately intrigued me. He then went around to do a portfolio review, looking at a majority of the art students' works, seeing if it would be a good fit for the environment. Afterwards, he stood with me and we had a discussion about my works. That dissection really stimulated me, made me rethink what my art should convey. It made me ask myself questions through which I realized that these questioning thoughts would ultimately push my art forward. So, I decided to do the Hometest, and with my friends' and teachers' encouragement, I got in. 

The experience I’m looking forward to is asking myself and others thought-riling and tilting questions. Looking at others' works and seeing their themes and motives, seeing and understanding them on a personal level, all while challenging each other. Learning about different movements, sharing different groups and cultures—this intermingling and diffusion of sorts is really what the school prioritizes.

Over the summer, I’ve been working, helping my mom out at her store. I’ve been practicing my use of watercolors, and I am trying to fill out an entire sketchbook before summer ends. I've been asking myself questions and educating myself about different movements and shifts that are happening globally. I’ve been busy reading and attempting to absorb the world around me. I’ve been trying to be a little less selfish and a little more communicative and perceptive.

Easha Fatima
New York, New York
Architecture

Throughout my childhood, I was always a visual learner and was interested in drawing and crafting three-dimensional objects. I would take advantage of school projects by incorporating a creative component that I believed would make my work more engaging. I created characters and interactive objects that pushed for creative ways of learning by crafting with various materials, i.e., cardboard, papier-mâché, and colored pencils. In second grade, I took my first architecture class. This class sparked my curiosity toward architecture and design. This class taught me to utilize skills of experimentation with structure, texture, and design from a young age.

In high school, I had the privilege of taking architecture as an elective for two years at The Dalton School in New York City. I also completed an independent study with my teacher. This elective quickly became one of the most influential classes in my high school years. I learned the importance of architectural design in the world around me—particularly how design can enhance communities and contribute to social justice by addressing housing or public needs. I also learned about the development of sustainable and accessible spaces, contributing to a better future. My teacher’s flexible approach to the curriculum of the course allowed me to explore my creative ideas with the curiosity to grow and learn from my peers during critiques.

I was able to further explore my interest in architecture on a professional level during my architecture summer internship at WORKac, an architecture firm in NYC that specializes in the intersection between social issues and architectural design. At WORKac, I was challenged to create 3D models using site photos, floor plans, and elevation drawings. It is these qualities of self-discipline, experimentation, and patience that I derived from my experience studying architecture that I believe will empower me to continue to take risks, create, and develop architectural designs outside of my comfort zone.

After taking architecture as an elective in high school and completing an internship in the field, I entered the college application process knowing that I wanted to pursue architectural design. I focused on programs offering the Bachelor of Architecture degree (B.Arch). My high school architecture teacher, an alumnus of The Irwin S. Chanin School of Architecture, played a significant role in shaping my aspirations. His insights not only deepened my appreciation for architecture but also encouraged me to explore a range of architecture programs, including The Cooper Union. Through research, attending open houses, and viewing student projects at the annual end-of-year exhibition, I was captivated by the program’s structure, rigor, and the passion the faculty brought to the curriculum.

I am excited to be in a studio space where I am surrounded by creative thinkers. I look forward to connecting with my peers by fostering collaboration and a strong creative community. As a student also interested in the humanities, I am looking forward to the Freshman Seminar and History of Architecture classes. I believe that these humanities courses will push me to develop analytical depth in my designs by grounding my work in broader cultural and ethical frameworks. I hope to continue to learn new ways to approach architectural design with consideration towards sustainability, identity, and accessibility. 

Over the summer, I have been interning at StoryCorps for their One Small Step initiative. I am supporting a national effort to bring people together across divides through dialogue. My work focuses on organizing and curating meaningful audio content, creating tools and systems that help public radio stations across the country share and access compelling stories. I have also been enjoying spending time with family and friends, baking, and drawing.

Yuno Lee
Millburn, New Jersey
Chemical Engineering

My experience with the Bernards Ensemble, a music organization supporting those with mental disabilities, first sparked my interest in chemical engineering. After numerous visits at disability homes, I connected with residents dealing with mental disabilities and chronic health challenges that impact every facet of their lives. I became aware of the critical need for innovative solutions that address these challenges which range from limited mobility, difficulties with communication, and dependence on therapies that are either expensive or insufficiently effective.

As chemical engineering offers powerful tools to tackle these issues, I hope to develop advanced biomaterials that can revolutionize prosthetics and assistive devices, making them lighter, stronger, and more adaptable to individual needs. Furthermore, by designing effective drug delivery systems, I hope to ensure that treatments are both more targeted and efficient, minimizing side effects and improving therapeutic outcomes. By integrating my passion for community impact with chemical engineering, I aim to contribute to technologies that empower individuals to lead more fulfilling lives by alleviating their pain. 

Growing up in New Jersey, I had heard about a small, yet rigorous college in Manhattan called The Cooper Union. I was intrigued by its challenging, interactive curriculum and focus on interdisciplinary collaboration in projects. I am most looking forward to collaborating with peers and professors who share my vision of using engineering to create meaningful change. I hope to partake in the Bioengineering Vertically Integrated Project (VIP) Team or the ChemE Car Club, where I can gain hands-on experience and build a strong sense of community among us aspiring engineers.

Over the summer, I have been working my part-time job as a tutor so I can afford all the food I’m going to eat in the city. I have also been spending my time practicing driving, and I got my driver’s license! I also performed many cello and piano duets with my sister, developed a gym routine, and played many intense pickleball matches with my friends. I’m excited to start my first year and start this new chapter of my life at The Cooper Union!