We make it! Support Patricio: A First-Gen Student's Goal

I decided to finish this fundraising because we make it!!

Hello, my name is Patricio Muñoz.

I am a student in the Master of Science in Architecture and Urban Design program at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation (GSAPP). My goal is to pay off my remaining tuition balance for the Fall 2024 semester so that I can enroll and graduate in Spring 2025, specifically in May 2025, my scheduled graduation date.

As a Latin American student, I have faced many challenges in accessing funding. My journey began with an initial scholarship I applied for but unfortunately didn’t obtain, a decision I learned about on July 31, 2024, while I was completing my summer semester. Despite this setback, I chose to persevere because I am determined to achieve my dream.

I have been able to secure a student loan, several small scholarships such as those from AKA Alpha, a merit-based scholarship, and the admissions scholarship. However, I still need to cover an outstanding balance of $10,995 for Fall 2024. I am seeking $10,000 through this fundraiser to help me finance my studies and continue at GSAPP. Without this support, I would need to return to my home country and abandon my studies. Achieving this dream is my greatest aspiration, and I truly believe it’s possible with your help.

I am Patricio, a 29-year-old Chilean architect with a background in architecture and a Master’s in City Planning.

I am proud to be a first-generation professional, a first-generation master’s student, and the first in my family to study abroad. I am pursuing this program because I am deeply interested in resilience, community work, and creating better cities that can effectively respond to the challenges of the 21st century. My focus is on improving social, environmental, climatic, economic, and spatial justice.

What excites me most about this program is being part of an extraordinary group of individuals engaging in meaningful discussions around these issues. Together, we are committed to contributing to positive change and embracing our roles as designers to accelerate progress and create a better world—a world where everyone can live and thrive.

Thank you for considering supporting my journey!