PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas – Brooke Meshack is building on a solid foundation—literally, since she’s an architecture student.
A native of Dallas, Meshack will be receiving her bachelor’s of science in architecture and construction science — a double major – this spring from Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU). Meshack plans to work in sustainable or “green” architecture.
“My career aspirations consist of becoming a licensed architect and specializing in sustainable design, using locally gathered materials and passive systems,” she said. “I saw this form of design as a way to reverse the negative effects of climate change.”
During her time at PVAMU, Meshack took full advantage of many internship opportunities to help her achieve her career goal. In the summer of 2018, she started interning on campus for the Office of Campus Planning and Space Management, working there for three years. Her favorite tasks included drawing up updated building floor plans for various campus venues. Later, she interned at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, inspecting and maintaining building plans. After the COVID-19 pandemic began, Meshack began working for PVAMU’s School of Architecture as an Environmental and Climate Justice Research Assistant.
“Our team designed a sustainable accessory dwelling unit to be used as secondary housing in times of crisis, like when hurricanes strike,” she said. “My internships have given me a full range of experience that gives me a solid foundation for whatever career choice I decide to take.”
Meshack has also been active in the organization Advancing Women in Transportation, where she served as chapter president from 2019 to 2020, as well as Women in Architecture, American Institute of Architecture Students (where she also served as chapter president, 2020-2021) and the National Organization of Minority Architects (where she currently serves as president). “These organizations gave me a chance to give back to the community and build up our architecture program,” she said.
Meshack points out the stellar reputation of PVAMU’s School of Architecture, which is accredited by the National Architectural Accreditation Board. PVAMU is the only Historically Black College/University of eight accredited programs in Texas. Meshack plans to return to PVAMU this fall to pursue a master’s degree in architecture, bringing her even closer to obtaining her career goals. “This will be my third degree and will make me eligible to sit for the Architecture Licensing Exam.”
When asked what makes PVAMU so special, Meshack identified “the huge support system of proud Panthers who are excited to help you get wherever you are trying to go.” Meshack says the family atmosphere makes PVAMU worth attending— from her academic advisors to her forever friends. “They have all shaped the person I am today.”
Her advice to new PVAMU students? “Experience everything that Prairie View has to offer, follow your intuition and let your path be made.”
-PVAMU-