APLA Senior Finds Future in Landscape Architecture

The Hoover, Alabama, native initially considered studying Architecture or Engineering, but nothing quite clicked. As she scrolled through a list of Auburn University majors, one option caught her eye: Landscape Architecture.

“I didn’t really know what it was at the time, but it seemed interesting to me,” Sosa said. “It also happened that my roommate’s parents were both landscape architects. I went in with a lot of uncertainty but was excited to learn.”

Once enrolled in the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture (APLA), she quickly developed a passion for designing meaningful spaces that connect people to the environment. Through APLA’s curriculum, she learned to see the landscape with fresh eyes and understand the broader impact of thoughtful design.

“The program here at Auburn has taught us to value the landscape and its history while creating spaces that are meaningful to people and beneficial to the environment,” she said. “It taught me to appreciate all the little things in the landscape that I’ve never noticed before.”

Her dedication and talent stood out from the beginning. As a freshman, Sosa earned a book award for her work in the program’s foundation studios. Most recently, she was nominated by faculty for the Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture’s Fountain Scholar Program, which honors students who identify as Black, Indigenous and/or persons of color who demonstrate exceptional leadership and design excellence.

But for Sosa, growth wasn’t just about awards and recognition—it was about hands-on learning, creative freedom and mentorship.

One of her most meaningful moments came this spring—her final semester—when she led an independent project, choosing both the site and the design focus. She credits the faculty for shaping her development as a designer, noting that each professor brings a distinct strength—from systems thinking and drawing techniques to technology and horticulture—that together created a rich and supportive learning environment. While she plans to pursue a landscape architecture in Birmingham or Atlanta upon graduating, she will be continuing research with APLA faculty member Kelly Homan.

Looking ahead, Sosa is energized by the field’s broad potential.

“You can design parks and courtyards, but you can also make a positive impact on the environment through restoration projects,” she said. “There are a lot of possibilities with this major.”