My name is Sara Saghafi Moghaddam, a passionate and dedicated doctoral candidate in the Architecture and Design Research program. My PhD research advised by Dr Jim Jones, is at the intersection of design and technology, focusing on the application of 3D immersion in the early stages of design, "see the contextual situation". I have a strong interest in healthcare design and wellbeing and am developing computational tools that empower designers to improve their decision-making skills. Also, I find it fascinating how architects use storytelling to shape their projects. Currently, I teach a course on integrating mixed reality into the design process and am a member of the CHCI student council as a content developer. My academic journey includes a BArch from the University of Tehran, an MArch from Milan Polytechnic University, and an MS in Computational Design from Georgia Tech. My experience during my PhD studies at Virginia Tech has been truly transformative, enabling me to participate in cutting-edge research, collaborate with faculty from various disciplines, and broaden my teaching experience.
I am studying how architects use technology to design buildings. When someone wants to build a new house or a large building, they must plan how it will fit into the location, its appearance, and its compatibility with the surroundings, including factors like sunlight, land shape, and nearby structures. Architects rely on tools such as computer software, 3D models, and sketching to assist them in this process. However, these tools sometimes have limitations, making it challenging to make changes once the plan is finalized. Therefore, I am utilizing a special technology called extended reality to enable architects to 'step into' their designs. This immersive experience allows them to explore their ideas as if they were inside a video game, facilitating better early-stage decision-making and avoiding costly alterations later on It is like giving architects a superpower to see their designs in a whole new way.
My primary motivation for persevering through graduate school is driven by a deep passion for design research and technology, a commitment to expanding my knowledge and research skills, and a strong desire to contribute to creating a better, healthier built environment. I view graduate studies as an opportunity to further develop my critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and resilience while also fostering valuable connections within academia and the professional world. My goal is to advance knowledge through my research projects, ultimately making meaningful contributions that enhance the quality of our built environment and empower communities for a better and inclusive future.
Absolutely. Connecting with students from diverse academic backgrounds can significantly enrich your understanding and broaden your perspective. Historically, scholars often possessed knowledge across multiple fields, which allowed them to specialize more effectively, given the interconnected nature of knowledge. In today's specialized world, appreciation for interdisciplinary collaborations has grown because they frequently lead to the generation of novel questions. Since answers to science questions are not static, networking with peers from various fields can stimulate the exploration of intriguing questions and promote a multidimensional comprehension of topics. When you perceive the interplay between research fields, you gain a deeper understanding of that field and can better identify which aspects are most deserving of further development.
Earning an advanced degree can transform one's role in society by providing the knowledge and tools to become a pioneer rather than just an implementer of prior research. With an advanced degree, individuals are equipped to take on a more proactive and influential role in their fields. They learn not only the existing research but also the research process itself, which enables them to formulate meaningful and innovative research questions and employ appropriate methodologies to address them. This ability to create new knowledge and insights allows for a higher and more active contribution to their communities and society as a whole.
My previous life experiences, particularly moving to a new country, presented significant challenges that encouraged me to reevaluate and reinvent myself. Having a family with advanced degrees helped me appreciate the value of higher education, but I recognized that pursuing a PhD demanded a distinct level of resilience. I found support and valuable insights by engaging in conversations with individuals facing similar circumstances, seeking guidance from mentors and peers, and learning to communicate effectively. Time management became crucial, allowing me to allocate sufficient time for both my academic pursuits and personal well-being. Reconnecting with nature and engaging in reading and writing, including journaling, provided essential sources of energy and inspiration as I navigated the demands of graduate school.
My favorite way to relieve stress is by reading literature, poetry, and stories. They offer a holistic perspective on life, reminding me of its unpredictability and the importance of making the most of what we have, cherishing the present moments that pass by all too quickly. Literature connects us with shared human experiences, thoughts, and emotions, often beautifully articulated in stories. It is a medium that fosters reflection and communication, helping us appreciate our resources and cherish the moments that shape our lives. Personally, I have always enjoyed reading Persian poems. I also find peace in hiking around Blacksburg's beautiful nature and enjoy playing volleyball.
The greatest challenge graduate students face is often questioning their path, dealing with self-doubt, and comparing themselves to others amid many uncertainties. I have been learning to prioritize my research and set achievable goals. I consult with mentors, peers, and my advisor for guidance, celebrate my own and others' achievements, and stay focused. I remind myself of my goals and the journey that brought me here, acknowledging that a PhD requires time, hard work, patience, effective management, and resilience.
I think it would be computer science or urban planning, as merging these disciplines with mine would enable me to harness technology and data to enhance community development and promote healthier societies. This interdisciplinary approach could open up promising avenues for research and problem-solving by combining human-centered design with technical expertise, recognizing the importance of qualitative aspects alongside quantitative ones.
What surprises me most about graduate school is the substantial demand for independence, initiative, and self-direction. Unlike following a set agenda or curriculum, I've had to take ownership of my education, which includes designing my academic path, striking a balance between work and personal life, discovering the right path based on the availability of resources, making clear choices among various options, and pursuing my goals with confidence, recognizing their inherent value.
It has shown me that people are the heart of any environment, influencing our experiences and expanding our understanding. Through these engagements, I have built meaningful relationships that will last a lifetime, highlighting the value of conversations beyond coursework and research. Being part of an academic community where people are dedicated to learning and enjoying their time has elevated my academic achievements and fostered creativity. It has provided me with a sense of belonging and place-making, creating lasting memories and building a strong sense of community. These interactions contribute to personal growth and valuable learning from others' experiences.