Armony dos Santos Panighello is an Angolan and Italian student who came to the U.S. to further her education and build a better life.
“I came to the U.S. not knowing how to speak a word of English, mainly intending to go to college. It was not easy; however, today, I have an associate degree in sciences, a bachelor’s degree in architecture, a minor degree in construction science, and I am now graduating with a master’s degree in architecture from Prairie View A&M University,” she said.
Panighello transferred to PVAMU because she felt it was the best way to accomplish a solid future that she valued.
“I grew up fed by dreams and inspired by creativity, drawings, and the ability to put things together,” she said. “I choose to attend PVAMU because it was the only university in Texas that, because of my high grades, offered me a waiver, different scholarships, and the possibility to take classes faster and more effectively.”
She also thrived off the continuous support that PVAMU offered.
“At PV, I had the honor of meeting professionals who were always ready to help and support. Besides all the professional knowledge acquired, I was able to be part of different student organizations and networks, which always helped open doors,” she said. “During my four years at PV, I had the opportunity to be part of organizations, such as the American Institute of Architecture Students, National Organization of Minority Architecture Students, Construction Specification Institute, and the Women Institute of Architecture,” she mentioned.
Panighello shared that the university enabled her to travel overseas, further building an already impressive resume.
“I studied abroad to Nepal, Kathmandu, and had the opportunity to intern at Powers Brown Architecture, an architecture firm where I was part of the production team,” she said. “The internship helped me and exposed me to the real-world dynamic of an architecture firm. It also introduced me to many other professional subjects.”
Panighello hopes to contribute and add value to the world around her by doing what she loves, which is creating and using the power of invention to construct and see things become a reality.
“I firmly believe that everyone has a unique talent and a crucial space in the society.” Panighello added, “My advice to current and upcoming students would be to never give up your personal goals, ask questions as necessary, work hard, and always be thankful.”
Panighello says she would not be where she is in society without her family and friends.
“I consider myself a fortunate person by being part of a spectacular family that taught me their values and provided me with all the opportunities to be where I am today,” she explained. “First, I thank God for all my achievements. Also to the angels He placed in my life, Sebastiana Neto, Franco Panighello, and Marcello Panighello, my mother, father, and brother. I would not be here without them; all my victories are just possible because they always believed in me and never gave up to support and love.”
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By Marchita Shilo