Elizabeth Galan, Associate AIA

Elizabeth Galan, Associate AIA, earned her Bachelor of Architecture degree from LSU in 2013. After graduation, Elizabeth decided to say goodbye to Baton Rouge and moved back to her hometown of Lake Charles, Louisiana. Once there, she found her beloved hometown booming with growth and economic development.  Anxious and excited to start her career, Elizabeth began working for Jeff Kudla Architect, a small muti-disciplinary locally owned firm.

Whenever Elizabeth does have a spare moment, she enjoys playing soccer or traveling anywhere and everywhere to see and experience different cultures and architecture. However, above all, her favorite pass time after a busy work week is spending time with her family.

Why is involvement in AIA Louisiana important to you personally and to you as an emerging architect? What are you currently involved in with your local Lake Charles chapter? Are there any community involvement projects you are working on?

I first became involved in the AIA as a networking tool, a way to meet other architects and design professionals within my community. However, it has become so much more to me. I love being a part of an organization that works with and for architects.

Currently, I am on the Quality of Life Task Force of the Southwest Louisiana Chamber. The Task Force is comprised of volunteers ranging in professions and ages who are working together to increase the quality of life in our community. Lake Charles is a growing community with lots of hometown charm. We want those that move here to stay here, and enjoy the city they now call home.

Have you begun the licensure process? What would you recommend to others who are in your shoes during the licensure process? What/Who has been beneficial to you in your studying?

I have recently begun the licensure process. The most beneficial advice I can give is to take your time. Everyone is going to go through the licensure process at their own pace. Do not rush through it. If you need to take a year to get your license, then take a year. If you need to take three years, then take three. Do what works for you. Also look to your boss or another experienced architect for some guidance and listen to their advice. They went through the exams and successfully made it to the finish line. Lastly, talk to classmates and studio mates for recommendations and study material. Who better to ask then those that provided support and helped you get through those long studio nights in school. Why not use them for support now?

Talk to me little about attending this year’s Grassroots in Washington D.C. What did you learn?

Grassroots was an amazing experience. I met so many enthusiastic architects from around the country that want so much more for our profession and communities and are willing to fight for it on Capitol Hill. During the conference, I had the extraordinary opportunity to meet and speak with several Louisiana Senators and Representatives to voice our opinions on upcoming legislation and to answer any questions regarding our profession.  I left D. C. with a reignited passion for my involvement in the AIA and a new found support system.